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University College Cork and University of San Francisco sign strategic international partnership
University College Cork (UCC) and the University of San Francisco (USF) have formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) establishing a new framework for academic, research, and innovation collaboration between Ireland and the United States.
The agreement was signed by Professor Ursula Kilkelly Vice President Global Engagement at UCC and Professor Otgo, Dean of the School of Management at USF at a signature event in San Francisco City Hall on Friday 6th March 2026. The event was part the annual flag raising which sees the Irish tricolour fly over City Hall in San Francisco to mark St Patrick’s Day celebrations as part of the 42 year old Cork San Francisco sister city twinning. Cork and San Franciso have a sister city relationship that was established in 1984, and both the Lord Mayor of Cork, Fergal Dennehy, the Lord Mayor of San Francisco Daniel Lurie, witnessed the signing between UCC and USF, in the company of Consul General of Ireland in the Western United States, Micheál Smith.
The agreement marks a significant step in strengthening transatlantic cooperation in higher education and entrepreneurship, in line with the University’s Global Engagement Plan and the international ambitions of the Cork University Business School. It recognises the growing importance of international collaboration in education, research, and enterprise development and commits both universities to fostering academic exchange and cultural cooperation through a structured programme of joint initiatives.
Areas of Collaboration
Under the terms of the MoU, the two universities will explore collaboration across a range of strategic areas, including:
- Joint research projects and initiatives of mutual interest
- Development of collaborative academic programmes
- Exchange opportunities for students, faculty, researchers, and startup founders
- Organisation of joint conferences, seminars, and workshops
A key feature of the agreement is the establishment of a priority pathway for UCC students applying to USF’s Master of Science in Entrepreneurship & Innovation (MSEI) programme. This will include a priority application process and application fee waiver, creating an accelerated progression route for eligible students.
The partnership will also offer UCC students, alumni, and executives access to USF’s Silicon Valley Immersion experience, providing exposure to one of the world’s leading innovation ecosystems.
In addition, the institutions will schedule joint online lectures between UCC and USF MSEI students, with the aim of quarterly engagement to promote cross-border learning, collaboration, and idea exchange.
Strengthening Transatlantic Innovation Links
“Fully in line with our strategic approach to global partnership, this agreement reflects both universities’ shared commitment to preparing graduates for leadership in a globalised economy, fostering entrepreneurial mindsets, and building meaningful international networks. Thanks are due to colleagues in both universities for their leadership.” stated Professor Ursula Kilkelly, Vice-President, Global Engagement, UCC.
Further details on programme development and student opportunities will be announced in due course as implementation progresses.