Mary Immaculate College, (MIC) Thurles is a third level college of education in Thurles, County Tipperary. Formerly a seminary, the college specialises in humanities courses in accounting, business studies, Irish and religious studies.
Present
Today MIC, Thurles offers degrees validated by the University of Limerick, in theology, business studies, Irish and religious studies and education, Irish studies and education, as well as some certificates in pastoral care. The undergraduate education degrees are recognised by the teaching council of Ireland enabling graduates to teach in secondary schools in Ireland.
Over recent years refurbishments have taken place to lecture halls, tutorial rooms, library, old research library, computing facilities, playing pitch and the refectory as well as to the college’s retreat and conference facilities.
As well as the academic course the college runs a number of courses in pastoral care, youth work and Irish language training courses for adults.
In 2012 the college celebrated its 175th anniversary, and were honoured by a civic reception by Thurles Town Council held in the Source Library.
A five-year permanent diaconate programme is run from the college training men to be deacons in the Catholic Church. The Diploma in Diaconate Studies is awarded by the Pontifical University, St. Patrick’s College, Maynooth.
University of Limerick alliance
Starting from September 2011, teaching degree programmes at St. Patrick’s College are accredited by the University of Limerick, and graduates from 2012 on wards have been awarded degrees from the university.
The degrees awarded are BEd with Irish and religious studies and BEd with business studies and religious studies. Graduates are registered with the Teaching Council of Ireland and are qualified to teach to Leaving Certificate standard. Participants are also be covered by the Government Free Fees Initiative.
Incorporation into Mary Immaculate College
In September 2016 a new deal was agreed which will see the 3rd level institution work with Mary Immaculate College in becoming a linked provider to the Limerick Centre of Excellence. The incorporation into Mary Immaculate has seen the college re-branded as MIC St. Patrick’s Campus, Thurles. The Irish Institute for Pastoral Studies is based at the MIC St. Patrick’s Campus.
Graduation
19 October 2012 saw the first students graduate with University of Limerick degrees which were presented by University of Limerick President Professor Don Barry. The second conferring by UL took place on 18 October 2013. The 2014 ceremony took place on 17 October in St. Patrick’s, in attendance were the academic staff of the college and representatives of the University of Limerick, as well as students family and friends in attendance.
Similarly in the past graduation took place on campus each autumn with academic staff, representatives of HETAC, figures from other educational institutions and local public figures, as well as students family and friends in attendance.