The Irish World Academy works closely with a network of international scholarship through its visiting world-renowned scholars, external examiners and co-supervisors and through its shared research and teaching programmes across the globe. Some special connections include
- New York University Glucksman Ireland House (Irish Studies),
- Boston College (Irish Studies),
- Boston University (Music Education and Irish Studies).
- Berklee College Boston (Music Therapy, Music Performance),
- University of Maryland College Park (Music Education and Community Music),
- Institute of Education University of London (Music Education),
- Cambridge University (Chant Studies),
- Southern Methodist University Dallas (Ritual Studies).
- Sibelius Academy Finland (traditional music),
- University of Pretoria (African traditional arts),
- Asia-Europe Foundation Singapore (traditional singing across eleven Asian and European countries),
- University of the Highlands and Islands project at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, Isle of Skye (Scots Gallic traditional arts) among many more.
Socially-linked research projects funded by the Irish Higher Education Authority include Multiculturalism and Nomadic Studies (with special reference to the Irish travellers). Several festivals of music and dances, as well as various series of public seminars, recitals and arts gatherings happen throughout the academic year, and these give a vibrant relevance to the many innovative research and performance initiative currently underway.