Summary

Co-sponsored by UW-Madison, the Dublin Parliamentary Internship program by Arcadia University, the College of Global Studies, allows students to earn academic credit, enhance professional knowledge, and improve practical skills. Students will develop a real-world perspective on government, Irish politics, and the parliamentary system while interning with a Member of the Irish Parliament.

During the program, students will intern at least two full days per week. Individual initiative, ability, past experience, and the student's relationship with the Member of Parliament he/she is interning with will largely determine the type of work assigned. Responsibilities may include conducting surveys, researching and reporting on issues related to public welfare, and preparing for press briefings.

Along with the internship, students will also spend two days each week taking courses. The themes of the courses are carefully designed to relate closely to the students' parliamentary internships. These courses, along with an extensive orientation, are designed to provide students with the necessary background to work effectively in their new environments.

Academics

Since 1965, Arcadia University's Center for Education Abroad has been providing opportunities for U.S. students to study abroad in Europe and many other destinations around the world. Arcadia University's unique internship programs allow students to develop and apply real-world skills within an academic context.

In addition to their internships, all students participating in the Dublin Parliamentary Internship will be enrolled in four courses, taught by lecturers at the Institute for Public Administration (IPA). Students will take courses with other North American interns in the program. Courses include "Dublin Parliamentary Internship", "Irish Society and Politics", "History of Modern Ireland: 1870 to Present", and "Modern Irish Literature: 1890 to Present."

The IPA is a highly respected Irish organization that focuses exclusively on civil and public sector development through part-time and distance education, training, and research. Although it offers bachelor's and master's degrees, the IPA is not a traditional college campus. It is located in an attractive, tree-lined suburb of Dublin within easy reach of the Parliament and city center.

Cost

Program cost information includes not only program fees, but out-of-pocket expenses with notes to help explain costs. Program fees are estimated and can be adjusted at any time. Accepted students receive cost sheets with confirmed program fees in their acceptance packets.

Fall 2009-10 Cost Estimate Sheet Spring 2009-10 Cost Estimate Sheet Fall 2010-11 Cost Estimate Sheet

Location

Dublin, a city whose median population is under the age of 30, is a mecca for students and young adults. There will never be a lack of things to do in Dublin. Students can catch a play at the world-renowned Abbey Theatre or sample the wide variety of cafes and entertainment venues in Temple Bar, Dublin's cultural quarter. Or, simply kick back and relax in Phoenix Park, one of the largest city parks in Europe.

Expressions of Irish culture are not confined to the National Concert Hall, but are accessible to everyone; traditional music is played by local street buskers and in area pubs for all to enjoy. On a simple stroll through Dublin's streets one is bound to recognize places illuminated in Irish literature and folklore.

Dublin is not only a cultural hub, but a transportation hub as well. Catch a ferry to England or Wales, or fly to another desired destination from Dublin's modern international airport. When seeking respite from city life, many charming villages and small towns are close by outside of Dublin. Within 30 minutes of the city center there are scenic mountains and sandy beaches, as well as beautiful public parks and gardens.

Student Life

Orientation:  A required orientation session held before departure at UW-Madison helps students prepare for studying abroad. Topics covered include academic, financial, administrative, cultural, and site-specific issues.

Upon arrival in Dublin, students will participate in an orientation that will prepare them for the parliamentary experience through intensive instruction that covers Ireland's constitution, political parties, issues and procedures, and upcoming legislation.

Housing:  Students enrolled in the Dublin Parliamentary Internship are housed in fully furnished flats in Dublin or with Irish host families.

Arcadia University flats are located in residential neighborhoods south of the city center. Conveniently located between the Institute of Public Administration (IPA) and city center, students generally walk to their classes and internship - about 25 to 40 minutes - but can also take advantage of public bus routes. Arcadia flats accommodate three to five students in shared bedrooms and feature communal bathrooms, kitchens and living areas. Students prepare their own meals and can take advantage of the various neighborhood shops and grocery stores. Additionally, each flat features wireless internet access and includes a washer, television, and telephone to be used with a calling card. Arcadia flats are available only to students studying abroad with Arcadia in Dublin.

Excursions and Activities:  Dublin offers an eclectic mix of city, countryside and coastline. Explore, relax and delight in the beautiful surroundings of Dublin City!