Tuesday, 29 May 2012

Online Irish Studies Degree Program Information

Irish studies degree programs are rarely available online; most of them require a study abroad portion of the program, which must be completed in person in Ireland. However, online undergraduate certificates in this field exist, through which students become familiar with the history, culture and political life of the Irish.

Online Irish Studies Certificate Program Information

There are not distance-learning programs in Irish studies at any level, though online certificates are available at some colleges and universities. Through an online certificate program for Irish studies, students have the opportunity to examine the religion, politics and history of Ireland. These concepts provide insight into Irish culture and behaviors. Those applying to this program must have at least a high school diploma or GED equivalent.

Information and Requirements

An Irish studies online certificate is 12-15 credits and takes about a year to complete, depending on whether students take the courses full- or part-time. Classes are available entirely online, where students learn by watching pre-recorded lectures, completing assignments and participating in the occasional class discussion. They also read literature and historical material, which is chosen by professors who are usually Irish. Although most certificate programs don't require that students complete any portion of the program in person, some may require that they complete a study abroad experience.
Students must have a computer and reliable Internet connectivity to access courses. All programs have different software requirements, but students typically need media players, Webcams and Microsoft Office.

List of Common Irish Studies Courses

These online certificate programs don't have any general education requirements; they consist exclusively of courses related to Irish history, Irish culture and Ireland. Typically, students complete courses completely on their own time, so after one lesson is completed, they move to the next, without dealing with pre-determined due dates.

Medieval Ireland Course

Students examine Irish life during medieval society by examining the era's politics, society and culture. They also study the relevant history and literature of the time, including famous poets.

Modern Culture and Society in Ireland Course

This course examines Irish society between 1854 and 1998, including the famine and its ramifications. Students read 20th century literature and examine how nationalism in Ireland affected and continues to affect religion, family and the economy.

Early Ireland Course

Students learn about early Ireland from 431 to 1169 A.D. They study how Christianity arrived in Ireland and mingled with traditional beliefs, as well as the effects of the Viking invasions and the literature that sprung from the time period.

Contemporary Ireland: Political and Social Changes Course

Students examine modern Ireland through the eyes of current sociologists. They analyze how Ireland has changed over time, possible changes taking place in the present, as well as their presumed effects on the future.

Career Information for Graduates

Those who complete a certificate program for Irish studies are familiar with the history, literature and archaeology of Ireland. Although additional education or experience may be required for some positions, graduates can find careers as travel agents, teachers or tour guides. For event planners, familiarity with Irish customs and society could help when planning events for individuals with an Irish background in or outside of the United States. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov), the median annual salary for travel agents was $30,570 and event planners made $44,260 as of 2008. According to O*Net, tour guides made a median salary of $24,750 as of 2009 (online.onetcenter.org).

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