Life at UCD is vibrant, welcoming, and full of possibility, a campus where learning blends seamlessly with community, culture and curiosity. From the moment you arrive, you’ll find a friendly, inclusive environment with endless ways to get involved, stay active, and shape your own university experience. With more than 60 sports clubs, over 90 student societies, and a lively calendar of events, UCD offers opportunities to explore new interests, meet new people, and grow both personally and academically.
Set on the spacious Belfield campus, UCD provides everything you need to study, socialise and thrive: modern libraries, inspiring study spaces, top-class fitness and recreation facilities, buzzing cafés and restaurants, and beautiful green spaces to unwind. Whether you’re competing with a club, performing with a society, or simply soaking in the energy of campus life, UCD is a place where you can belong, get involved, and make every day count.
Student Life & Community
A Welcoming Community from Day One. Discover a campus where you can feel at home, make friends, and thrive.
At UCD, you’ll join a diverse and friendly community that’s easy to feel part of. From your very first week, you’ll be welcomed through Orientation events, Freshers’ activities, and peer-to-peer support designed to help you settle in quickly. The UCD Global Lounge offers daily opportunities to meet people from around the world, join cultural celebrations, catch a film night, or simply relax between classes.
Whether you’re chatting with classmates, connecting with your peer mentor, or taking part in one of the many student-led events, you’ll find countless opportunities to build your network, share new experiences, and make memories that last long after your time at UCD.
Clubs, Societies & Student Activities
Try something new, or Dive Into what you love. Over 60 sports clubs and 90+ societies. One unforgettable student experience.
UCD is home to one of Ireland’s most active student communities. With over 60 sports clubs and more than 90 student societies, there’s something for every interest, from competitive sport to creative arts, cultural groups to career-focused societies.
Join the Rowing Club on the water at dawn, take on a new challenge with the Climbing Club, or discover your performance side in the Drama Society. Explore unique student communities like the Harry Potter Society or the Sci-Fi & Fantasy Society, or get inspired at debates, guest talks, and showcases run throughout the year.
Campus Life Highlights
Your Best Campus Life Moments Start Here. Explore the experiences UCD students love most.
There’s no shortage of ways to enjoy life on campus. Here are some student favourites:
- Walk the iconic UCD Lake trail — the perfect break between classes.
- Catch a movie at UCD Cinema — affordable screenings right on campus.
- Meet friends at the Clubhouse Bar — quiz nights, big match screenings, and a buzzing evening atmosphere.
- Take on the 50m Olympic-standard pool or try a group fitness class at the UCD Sports Centre.
- Grab a bite at campus favourites like The Village Food Hall, where you can choose from eight different food pods offering everything from burgers to pizza to sushi. And if coffee is your thing, you’ll find plenty of cafés and coffee trucks across campus to keep you fuelled throughout the day.
- Discover your ideal study space from the James Joyce Library to the state-of-the-art Quinn building, or any of the bright, modern study hubs and social areas spread across campus.
- Enjoy Belfield’s green spaces for picnics, reading, or a casual game of frisbee.
- Explore UCD’s creative side through campus art exhibitions and cultural events.
Facilities That Support Student Life
A modern campus designed for learning, wellbeing and growth.
UCD provides world-class facilities to help you succeed academically and personally. Study in the James Joyce Library or choose from a network of bright, modern study spaces across campus ideal for group work, research, or quiet focus.
The UCD Sports Centre includes a 50m pool, extensive gym, indoor and outdoor courts, pitches, and studios. Innovation spaces like UCD MakerSpace and technology labs support hands-on learning and creative exploration.
Student wellbeing comes first, with access to health and counselling services, student advisors, academic supports, and a wide range of healthy-campus initiatives designed to help you thrive.
Living on Campus
Safe, social, modern — your home away from home.
UCD’s on-campus residences offer a friendly, inclusive environment where community comes naturally. With modern rooms, spacious shared kitchens, cosy lounges and dedicated study spaces, campus living is comfortable and convenient.
Residential Assistants (RAs) and 24/7 security provide support and peace of mind, while regular social events help you get to know your neighbours and settle in quickly.
Everything you need is on your doorstep: cafés, grocery stores, green spaces, sports facilities, laundry rooms, and study hubs. Living on campus is one of the easiest ways to make the most of your UCD experience.
