Trinity College Launches Pioneering New Irish Studies Degree

Posted on: 14 December 2006

A pioneering interdisciplinary degree in Irish Studies that will explore and question Ireland’s literature, language, history and culture in a way that has never before been possible, either at home or abroad, was launched by Trinity College on Wednesday, December 13 last.

This innovative interdisciplinary programme will enable students to study Irish literature in the Irish and English languages. They will study the main periods of Irish history and will familiarise themselves with key concepts in cultural history and theory. They will also have an opportunity to study the Irish language from beginner’s level. This is a new departure for an Irish university. The course will also include other such subjects as an introduction to genetics and DNA testing which will involve genetic research of the population patterns in prehistoric and medieval Ireland, their genealogies and the historical implications of these results.

The degree course which is aimed at undergraduates from Ireland, the EU, America and worldwide is a collaboration between TCD lecturers from several different disciplines: History, English, Irish, Geography, History of Art, Politics, Linguistics, Film and Drama Studies and Genetics. There will be 26 places available – 20 EU and 6 non-EU places.

Prof Ciarán Brady gives Irish Studies presentation during Open Day