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Belfast Lord Mayor welcomes students and academics from Bellarmine University to St Mary’s University College International Summer School.

International Summer School

The Lord Mayor of Belfast welcomes students and faculty from Bellarmine University, USA at the International Summer School.

St Mary’s has developed an International Summer which runs during the first week of August, offering 70+ lectures in partnership with Féile an Phobail. Our inaugural St Mary’s University College Summer School in 2023 welcomed a group of students and academics from four USA universities for a unique insight into local politics, culture, and post-Brexit relationships 25 years on from the Belfast Agreement. The theme of our inaugural International Summer school was ‘Building Peace through Dialogue’, combining academic insights with engaging social activities. U.S. students participated in cultural activities such as Irish dancing and Gaelic games, allowing them to immerse themselves in high-value experiences.

The International Summer School 2023 attracted participants from the following institutions:
  • Alvernia University, PA 
  • Cabrini University, PA  
  • James Madison University, VA  
  • Bellarmine University, KY  

The programme developed for the visiting USA students as part of the International Summer School was designed to foster understanding and dialogue, encouraging participants to engage with complex issues surrounding Northern Ireland’s history and prospects for the future. 

Bellarmine University students taking part in the International Summer School at St Mary's University College, Belfast.

Accommodation

As part of the College’s International Summer School, we provide accommodation for the duration of the programme through one of our accommodation providers. 

The International Summer School is organised in association with Féile An Phobail, (renowned as one of the most dynamic and unique community festivals in Europe, and Ireland’s largest Community Arts Festival). Féile An Phobail means “the Community’s Festival”, and is also known as the West Belfast Festival.

Students from Alvernia, Bellarmine and James Madison University in the U.S. are welcomed to the inaugural International Summer School.
Students from the U.S. taking part experiencing Gaelic games as part of the International Summer School at St Mary’s University College, Belfast.

Download our Programme

The dates of the 2024 International Summer School are 4th to 11th August. 

There is a big welcome awaiting you in Belfast.

Download the 2024 programme

Register to be notified when this year’s programme becomes available.

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