American College Dublin embraces the time-honored American tradition of the moderately sized, not-for-profit liberal arts institution, placing it within an international context. Our mission is to offer the best traits of Irish and American higher education in an intimate environment. With small class sizes—no more than twenty-five students per class—students receive individualized attention, enabling them to maximize their potential and achieve success.  

American College Dublin prides itself on its diverse staff and student body, welcoming individuals of all races, colors, religions, creeds, sexual orientations, physical abilities, and ethnic backgrounds. This diversity fosters global conversations and cultural exchanges, shaping the College’s identity as an international learning environment.  

Events: 

A college experience includes more than what happens in the classroom! With this in mind, American College Dublin offers a broad range of events and activities where students can unwind and make meaningful connections. From origami sessions to ice cream socials, quiz nights, and murder mystery meals, there’s something for every kind of interest. 

With Dublin City on our doorstep, events often span beyond school grounds to external venues, including restaurants, escape rooms, museums, and parks, just to name a few. 

Accommodation:  

Although we do not offer on-campus housing, you can find a list of recommended venues on our housing page. These options, popular with past students and personally vetted by ACD staff, cater to various preferences, tastes, and budgets. 

Societies and Clubs: 

Explore your interests through ACD clubs and societies! Whether you’re a theater student with a passion for video games or a business student interested in mental health, your involvement can deepen your knowledge and broaden your experiences beyond the classroom. We also encourage you to start your own society! Creation forms are available in the Student Life Office and at reception. 

Excursions: 

Discover Ireland beyond Dublin with our school-led Saturday excursions! Offered monthly throughout the semester, these one-day trips offer a range of experiences, from educational tours of historic sites like Blarney Castle, relaxed visits to cities like Cork, to the high-octane fun of Emerald Park, Ireland’s only theme park. Each outing provides an opportunity to connect with other students and create lasting memories. 

Student Leadership: 

An essential piece of the college experience, student leadership paves the way to future success. American College Dublin students will find a range of leadership opportunities through which they can empower the school community and cultivate essential skills. 

Student Union: 

  • The voice of our students, the ACDSU enhances the collective college experience through dynamic events, advocacy, and impactful initiatives. Interested in becoming a member? Stop by the Student Life office to pick up an application. 

 

Library: 

More than just a peaceful place to study, the Rooney Library offers a wide range of books, periodicals, and newspapers that align with our course catalogue. Students will also have access to databases such as J-Stor. 

Life in Dublin: 

Located on Merrion Square, the historical center of Dublin, in the childhood home of Oscar Wilde, ACD resides within walking distance from some of the best cultural opportunities Dublin has to offer, including various theaters, museums, galleries, restaurants, and traditional pubs. Shop on the world-famous Grafton Street, bask in the vibrant nightlife of Temple Bar, and explore the city’s rich history through its various landmarks. The best of Dublin is right at your doorstep! 

Our proximity to both Pearse Street and Connolly train stations provides easy access to the greater Dublin area, as well as cities like Belfast and Cork, and the lush countryside.   

A short walk away from Merrion Square is our Mount Street building. This hub for theater students provides both large spaces for acting classes and private practice rooms for one-on-one vocal lessons. Meanwhile, dance classes are held at the Liffey Trust Studio.