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  • Cliffs of Moher

Dublin and Limerick, Ireland

Media, Culture and Identity

Take your education beyond the classroom

Challenge yourself to become part of the next generation of communicators with international experience. Ireland is known for its powerful storytelling traditions, rich history and distinctive cultural identity. From the busy streets of Dublin to the welcoming communities of Limerick and Galway, students will explore how Irish culture is communicated through journalism, literature, media, historic sites and everyday life.

This faculty-led program is designed specifically for first-generation undergraduate students in the College of Information and Communications. Eligible first-generation students from every undergraduate class year may apply. No previous international travel experience is required. Students will prepare together, travel as a group and build a community before heading abroad.

What's the class?

Employers know that international experience, adaptability and an understanding of cultural differences can give their organizations an advantage. This course was designed to help students develop those skills through an international learning experience.

First-generation college students will enroll in JOUR 215: Special Topics - Media, Culture and Identity, a three-credit spring semester course. During the first seven weeks of the semester, students will examine communication, culture, media and identity from U.S. and Irish perspectives. The class will then travel to Ireland during Spring Break to apply what students have learned through academic engagement, cultural experiences and guided reflection.

Assignments will encourage students to examine how media and storytelling influence identity, belonging and public understanding. Students will document their experiences through written reflections, photography and media created with their smartphones.

Who can go?

This program is only open to first-generation undergraduate students enrolled in the College of Information and Communications. Students from all undergraduate class years are eligible to apply.

  • Class size: Approximately 20 students
  • Prerequisites: None required
  • Course credit: Students should speak with their academic advisor about how JOUR 215 will apply toward their degree.
  • Language barriers: You do not need to know Irish to participate. English is widely spoken throughout Ireland, making it easier to navigate and participate in program activities.

Pre-departure

Students will meet during the first seven weeks of the spring semester to prepare for the international experience. Class sessions will cover passports, international travel, safety, budgeting, packing, cultural expectations and navigating unfamiliar environments.

These sessions are designed to help students and their families understand what to expect and feel confident about the experience.

During the trip, you’ll . . .

  • Explore Dublin and experience how Ireland’s capital communicates its history, culture and national identity.
  • Visit Bunratty Castle and Folk Park to explore Irish history, traditions and storytelling.
  • Experience the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most recognizable cultural and natural landmarks.
  • Take a day trip to Galway to explore another center of Irish culture and media.

Trip program cost: $700 (the deposit)... savings of $1,699

Includes:

  • Hotel accommodations in Dublin and Limerick
  • Daily breakfast
  • Ground transportation for scheduled program activities
  • Transportation between Dublin and Limerick
  • Academic and cultural excursions
  • Admission to scheduled program sites and attractions

Additional costs

Students and families should plan for the following expenses in addition to the $1,699 program cost. Estimates may change based on booking date, personal choices and university charges.

  • Round-trip airfare to Dublin: $700 to $1,200. Students purchase their own flights. Cost varies by departure city and booking date.
  • USC Education Abroad application fee: $225. This fee is required for all study abroad students.
  • Additional meals, snacks, souvenirs and other personal costs: $20 to $30 daily.

Trip leaders

Application

Interested? Complete an application. Do not wait too long because space is limited to approximately 20 students, and we expect the class to fill quickly.

If you submit an application, we will keep in touch with you and provide updates about the program, course registration and upcoming deadlines.

Apply now

Complete the CIC Ireland program application linked above, then follow the USC Education Abroad instructions for instructor-led programs. The USC application deadline for Spring Break programs is December 1, 2026.

Learn more about USC Education Abroad Instructor Led Programs here.

Scholarships

CIC scholarships of $1,000 are available for eligible CIC students participating in faculty-led study abroad programs.

Complete the Mary Caldwell Study Abroad Scholarship application. Students must have applied for the Ireland program to be eligible.

Scholarship application deadline: December 2, 2026

Still can’t afford the trip?

Meet with Scott Farrand, CIC study abroad director, to explore additional funding options: farrand@mailbox.sc.edu

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