Social Work in Northern Ireland
Belfast, Northern Ireland | Summer
Study the historic and cultural nuances of Belfast and Northern Ireland through immersive learning experiences. Explore the area while learning about the social issues of the region, with its rich heritage and stunning natural landscapes. Belfast and Northern Ireland have been greatly shaped by the Troubles, a period of conflict from the 1970s to 1998 rooted in centuries of division. Despite the peace established in 1998, Belfast remains divided by peace walls and the region faces challenges in social welfare. Lectures from guest speakers and visits to relevant sites let you explore the unique social and political environment of Belfast and topics related to ongoing tensions in the region.
Eligibility
This program is open to all undergraduate and graduate students. It is designed for students majoring in social work or with a strong interest in social services, but it may also be of particular interest to students majoring in human rights, psychology, nursing, or pre-med tracks.
Other Considerations & Requirements
Priority is given to students in good conduct standing with a GPA of 2.5 or higher; exceptions may be granted upon appeal. You will be required to complete online coursework before and after the program.
The College of Social Work offers study abroad scholarships to current BSW and MSW students. Contact Jane Dwyer Lee at jane.dwyerlee@fsu.edu and Tan Edgerton at tedgerton@fsu.edu for more information.
Be advised that this program intensively focuses on social issues including topics related to addiction, trauma, and ongoing tensions. The program may have academic readings, images/videos, and site visits with sensitive content which some students may find disturbing or difficult to watch.
This program includes travel between Northern Ireland (United Kingdom) and the Republic of Ireland. Non-U.S. citizens may be required to obtain additional immigration documentation depending on the country that issued their passport. In some cases, students may need both a United Kingdom visitor visa and an Irish visitor visa. If you are not a U.S. citizen, contact IP-Visas@fsu.edu for guidance regarding your specific circumstances.
Note: Do not purchase airline tickets until advised to do so in the IP portal. This program begins in Belfast and ends in Derry-Londonderry.
Housing
In Belfast, you'll live in centrally-located student apartments in a single room with ensuite bathroom and Wi-Fi. The building includes secure access, a community kitchen, lounge space, laundry room, coffee bar, and computer lab. In Derry-Londonderry, you'll stay in shared student accommodations at Ulster University.
Note: Overnight guests are not allowed in program housing.
Academics
On this program, you'll study a focused curriculum with an FSU faculty member. You’ll have the opportunity to use the city as your classroom through immersive academic experiences.
Excursions & Activities
You'll receive a program calendar before you leave; here are some examples taken from past programs of potential excursions & activities you may do:
Overnight trip: Derry-Londonderry (including Grianán of Aileach Fort, the Bloody Sunday Museum, walking tour, and visits to historical sites before the program ends there)
Day trips: Giant's Causeway (including a guided tour of Dunluce Castle)
Local experiences: Walking tour of Queen’s University-Belfast & neighborhood, Belfast cab tour, Titanic Museum
Class visits: Visits to local social services agencies with guest speakers & experiential learning, participation in international classes at Queens University-Belfast in School of Social Sciences, Education, & Social Work
Included in the Fee
Academic Credit
3 credit hours
Housing Abroad
Single-occupancy dorm style
Excursions & Activities
Some Meals
Some dinners & lunches
International Health Insurance
On-Site Pastoral Support
Admin & Academic Support
And More!
Including a laundry card while in Belfast
