programmes

  
MA IN OLD AND MIDDLE IRISH

The MA in Old and Middle Irish aims to provide students with a thorough grounding in Irish language and literature of the period ca. 600— ca. 1200. 

It is aimed at those who already have a good basic knowledge of Irish (Medieval or Modern), or another Celtic language, and, in exceptional cases, at those who have the appropriate background to undertake the study of Old and Middle Irish ab initio. The programme is offered on a full-time basis over a twelve-month period.  Students follow a prescribed taught course which runs from September to May approximately, following which they complete a dissertation of ca. 15,000 words.

The combination of taught modules and dissertation-guidance in this MA programme provides students with an excellent foundation for proceeding to higher research programmes (MLitt and PhD) in many fields of Irish-language and Celtic Studies, of the medieval, the early modern, and even the modern period.

There is a substantial core of teaching:  students attend ca. eight lectures per week in each of the two semesters.  Of the total of 90 credits (ECTS), 60 are allocated to taught modules, and the remaining 30 to the minor thesis.  Modules are selected on the basis of the students' prior knowledge of Irish, and in particular on their knowledge, if any of the Old and Middle Irish stages of the language.  Staff will be happy to advise in advance on the aims and learning outcomes of the various modules, and the most beneficial combination for individual students.  Class sizes are small, and staff aim for a friendly and supportive environment.

Mlitt and PhD students from other fields of Medieval Studies often opt to take modules from the MA in Old and Middle Irish and, similarly, students of this MA are encouraged to avail of contacts with that broader academic community, and to attend occasional lectures and seminars in cognate fields. 

Students acquire first-hand experience of various research methodologies in the course of writing their minor thesis.  Staff work closely with students to identify thesis-topics that may lend themselves to eventual publication or further development at PhD level. 

While lectures for the MA are delivered through English (to accommodate students from different countries and backgrounds), the use of spoken Irish outside of lectures is positively encouraged and supported.  Written examinations and theses may be presented through Irish or English.  The commitment of NUI, Galway to maintaining a bilingual campus is of special benefit to all students of Irish, of whatever period.

Course Outline

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