Program Overview

Ireland: Language, Power, History

Faculty-led Global Learning Program

Course Details

Syllabus

The program syllabus is available for review.

Instructional Dates

The program will take place from June 23, 2026, to July 20, 2026.

Travel Dates

Travel dates are scheduled from June 27, 2026, to July 19, 2026.

Credits

Participants will earn credits for the following courses:

• INTL 105
• FAIR 337 Total Credits: 9

Program Description

The program begins with an intense study of Irish history on the WWU campus, focusing on the interplay between power and language use. Participants will then immerse themselves in the Irish language and culture in Donegal, living with Irish-speaking families and attending language classes at the National University of Ireland, Galway's campus in Gaoth Dobhair. The final week will be spent at the University of Galway in Galway City, residing in student residences.

Program Highlights

• Stay with Irish-speaking families at the Donegal Gaeltacht
• Attend traditional Irish music sessions and learn Irish dancing in the Donegal Gaeltacht in Gaoth Dobhair
• Stay at the University of Galway student residences
• Tours and site visits along the Wild Atlantic Way
• Earn 5 credits for FAIR 337
• Earn 4 credits for INTL 105 for beginning Irish (Gaelic) immersion class at NUI, Gaoth Dobhair, Donegal
• Study Ireland's linguistic past, present, and future, and its connection to historical, political, economic, and social events and choices

Expectations of Participants

Participants must be able to sit or walk for 4-6 hours, with optional activities including a hike to climb Mount Errigal and walking tours of a national park and an island. Refrigeration will be available throughout the program. Students with disabilities must work with the WWU Disability Access Center to arrange accommodations. It is highly recommended that all participants are fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

Scholarships

Available scholarships include:

• Liz Partolan-Fray Memorial Scholarship for Education Abroad
• Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship

Program Leadership

The program will be led by Professor Niall Ó Murchú, Fairhaven College of Interdisciplinary Studies.