The Preparing for Life (PFL) programme is an early childhood intervention which aims to improve levels of school readiness in three designated disadvantaged areas of North Dublin. This six year intervention is being evaluated by the UCD Geary Institute using both experimental and quasi-experimental research methods.

The Irish Universities Study is a web-based survey examining the 3rd and 4th level student population in the seven Irish universities: Trinity College Dublin, University of Limerick, Dublin City University, National University of Ireland Maynooth, University College Dublin, University College Cork and National University of Ireland Galway. The study uses web-surveying techniques which are more flexible, cost effective and rapid than conventional methods of data gathering. It is intended that the project will create a longitudinal database; individuals will be followed up as they progress through the university system.

The primary aim of New ERA is to promote and support the participation of students from lower socio-economic groups who, in general, are under-represented in higher education. The Access programme provides secondary-level students from designated disadvantaged schools with supported entry mechanisms to study at University College Dublin and financial support for the duration of their university life, in addition to a host of support services both before and after they join UCD.