Program Overview

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Introduction to the Program

The Beginnings of Irish Christianity is a postgraduate program offered by University College Cork. This comprehensive program provides students with a deep understanding of the religious culture and spirituality of early medieval Ireland, from the conversion to Christianity to the end of the twelfth century.

Course Outline

The program consists mainly of Celtic Civilisation modules, together with designated modules in Archaeology, History, Folklore, and Latin. Students will examine the coming of Christianity to Ireland, the complex and subtle ways in which the new religion established itself within the framework of indigenous culture, and the influence which a Gaelic ecclesiastical diaspora had on the growth of the Church in medieval Europe as a whole.

Key Areas of Study

• The cult of the saints
• Tales of supernatural voyages and visions
• Instruction in early Irish and in Latin to enable students to get closer to the original texts
• A field trip module (optional) with visits to early Christian sites in Ireland, grounding literary study in encounters with what physically survives of a distant world

Course Practicalities

The program may be studied full-time (over 12 months) or part-time (over 24 months). Attendance at taught modules is compulsory. The taught modules are assessed by continuous assessment and/or by end-of-year examinations. In the supervised-study modules, assessment is by essay/project; in the research presentation, public delivery to an academic audience is also assessed.

Academic Staff

The program is coordinated and principally taught by members of the Department of Early and Medieval Irish, with participation by the staff of the Departments of Archaeology, Classics, Folklore, and History.

Why Choose This Course

This program is unique in its comprehensiveness and diversity, offering an invaluable opportunity to develop in-depth knowledge and research skills with one-on-one supervision by internationally recognized experts in the field.

Skills and Careers Information

An MA degree in The Beginnings of Irish Christianity can prepare students for further study in Celtic Studies or provide an additional qualification for careers in heritage, local history, broadcasting, religious education, and pastoral care within the Christian Churches.

Requirements

Candidates should normally hold a Second Class Honours Grade I in a primary honors degree (NFQ, Level 8) or equivalent in a relevant discipline. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) may be considered for candidates with a Second Class Honours Grade II.

English Language Requirements

Applicants who are non-native speakers of the English language must meet the university-approved English language requirements.

Fees and Costs

The EU fee for this course is Full-time: 8,100 Part-time: 4,700. The Non-EU fee for this course is 18,500.

How to Apply

Applications are made online through the UCC application portal. Scanned copies of supporting documents, including original qualification documents and transcripts, must be uploaded. A non-refundable application fee applies.

Additional Requirements

Applicants may be required to provide additional information, including details of professional or voluntary positions held, research interests, motivation for the program, and names of referees.

Contact Details

For queries regarding course content, please contact the relevant department.