Graduate

 

The interdisciplinary nature of this program requires that our students take a range of courses from various university departments, as well as a semester-long Parliamentary Internship in Dublin. The requirements on campus include at least one course in the Irish language (3 credits), one in Irish literature in English 3 credits) and the Seminar in Contemporary Irish Society, oriented to research on aspects of Irish politics and culture in our time, including a semester long research project (3 credits). Students may choose two other courses from among the offerings under Course Listing.

The program can be completed in two semesters, but commonly three or four are recommended. A full-time load involves three or more courses per semester, part-time one or two. Usually students spend one or more semesters in part-time status, though the Parliamentary internship necessitates full-time status for the semester taken. There is no prescribed sequence of courses, but Introduction to Gaelic Language is normally only offered in the fall semester, and is recommended for beginning students if scheduling permits. The Seminar in Contemporary Irish Society is offered each semester, and it is recommended that students take this course before going on the internship. Irish literature is offered each semester, and Irish language and Seminar in the evenings. The program staggers course hours to allow students to work and attend classes part-time.

Early in the semester preceding that intended for the semester-long Irish Parliamentary Internship in Dublin, students should submit the Study Abroad Application Form (available at studyabroad.cua.edu) by the deadline posted on the Study Abroad web site. Students in the Irish Studies M.A. Program are not required to submit the writing samples or letters of recommendation this form otherwise requires.