Program Overview
This MA program in Modern Irish emphasizes language proficiency, research skills, and career preparation in fields such as education, media, translation, and public service. Through coursework, work placements, and a research project, students gain an understanding of Irish society and the language's role in Europe, while developing advanced skills in written and spoken Irish. The program fosters autonomous and collaborative learning, with a focus on contemporary research and the importance of preserving and promoting the Irish language.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
This course is designed for students of Irish language and literature and for those working in the Irish language sector. There is a focus on a high standard of language and transferable language skills. Students who complete this course graduate with a high standard of accuracy in Irish language, and an understanding of its role in Irish society and Europe. Work placements are a key part of this course, which also entails a research project with skills ranging from use of translation and media packages, to research skills, depending on the choices made by the student. Students will graduate with effective communication and analytical skills to prepare them for a variety of career paths including: careers in Education, Media, Translation, Public Service, Research, Editing and Publishing. Students who complete this course graduate with a high standard of accuracy in Irish language, and an understanding of its role in Irish society and Europe. The student completes a thesis on any topic in modern Irish language or literature. Work placements are also part of this course which also entail a research project encompassing interdisciplinary skills ranging from use of translation and media packages, to research skills, depending on the choices made by the student.
Assessment:
Learning and assessment approaches include oral, written and aural examinations, peer assessment, project work, essays, presentations, seminars, work placements and research dissertations.
Teaching:
All teaching and communication is conducted through the medium of Irish, in small group tutorials, in lectures, in writing and media workshops, and in seminar-style participatory classes. A series of seminars delivered by guest lecturers introduces students to current research by experts in their fields. Students are encouraged to make use of digital archive resources in their research.
Careers:
Since its inception many students from this programme have secured international scholarships, such as the Fulbright Award or the Ireland Canada University Foundation Scholarship, working annually in thirdlevel institutions in the US and Canada. International opportunities can include posts in: translation, interpretation, copy-editing, administrative positions, lawyer linguist and publishing. National opportunities: Publishing, terminology projects (Fiontar DCU, Foclóirí) Media (print, radio television, online) Teaching (second and third Level) Research – particularly in the areas of media, revival, sociolinguistics, translation, terminology or literature for example State and Semi-state bodies and funded organisations, such as Foras na Gaeilge, Conradh na Gaeilge and Eagrais Ghaelscolaíochta.
Other:
The MA: Scríobh agus Cumarsáid sa Nua-Ghaeilge is aimed at students with an academic background in Modern Irish or a cognate subject and at Irish language and Media professionals. Central to the programme is the specific focus on contemporary research and on advanced language and professional skills such as translation, legal translation, media, editing and writing skills. We value autonomous and collaborative learning, providing a vibrant academic environment for the teaching and use of the Irish language, supported by our multi-media language learning centre and work placements in national and international organisations. Able to discriminate and self-evaluate areas of academic specialisation that are best suited to their strengths as research scholars and as professionals. give interviews and participate in current debate on broadcast and print media; debate and analyse current affairs and academic topics. Appreciate the study of the Irish language and its literature as an integral part of Irish society past and present in a national and global context. Be proficient in the use of on-line and traditional resources. Demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of analytical techniques, research methods and theoretical issues in contemporary research in the Irish language. Demonstrate effective communication skills with appropriate use of subject-specific terminology and with an ability to explain the rationale underlying research conclusions. Translate literary, legal and official texts for use in the public domain; Use the study of Modern Irish as a means of enabling critical thinking about social and cultural issues.
University College Dublin
Overview:
University College Dublin (UCD) is a leading research-intensive university located in Dublin, Ireland. It is known for its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and global engagement. UCD offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines.
Student Life and Campus Experience:
UCD provides a vibrant and diverse campus experience for its students. The university emphasizes the holistic development of its students, offering a range of opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Research Excellence:
UCD is renowned for its strong research output and collaborations with industry partners.Global Partnerships:
The university boasts a vast network of partner institutions worldwide, providing students with opportunities for international study and exchange.Transformational Learning:
UCD focuses on providing a transformative learning experience that fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills.Other:
UCD is actively involved in promoting sustainability and social responsibility. The university is committed to creating a positive impact on society through its research, teaching, and engagement activities.
Entry Requirements:
- An upper second class honours degree, or the international equivalent, in Irish or a related area is required.
- Significant professional work experience working in Irish language organisations or in the teaching profession is also accepted.
- Applicants whose first language is not English must also demonstrate English language proficiency of IELTS 6.5 (no band less than 6.0 in each element), or equivalent.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate English language proficiency of IELTS 6.5 (no band less than 6.0 in each element), or equivalent.