Program Overview

Early and Modern Irish

The Early and Modern Irish program is a four-year undergraduate degree that offers students the opportunity to study the Irish language and literature from the earliest period to the present day. The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the language, literature, and culture of Ireland, as well as the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue a career in a variety of fields.

Course Details

• Awards: B.A. Honours Bachelor Degree (NFQ Level 8)
• CAO Information: CAO Points 343 (2024), CAO Code TR022
• Number of Places: 15 Places

Course Options

The Early and Modern Irish program can be taken as a single honors degree or as part of a joint honors degree with another subject.

Admission Requirements

• Leaving Certificate: H4 in Irish
• Advanced GCE (A Level): Grade C in Irish
• International Baccalaureate: SL/HL Grade 5 in Irish
• English Language Requirements: All applicants to Trinity are required to provide official evidence of proficiency in the English language. Applicants to this course are required to meet Band B (Standard Entry) English language requirements.

Course Fees

For a full list of undergraduate fees, please refer to the relevant section of the university's website.

Program Structure

The program is structured over four years, with students taking a range of modules that cover the language, literature, and culture of Ireland from the earliest period to the present day. In the first two years, students will study the basics of Old Irish, as well as the history of the Irish language and literature. In the third and fourth years, students will have the opportunity to specialize in specific areas of interest, such as medieval Irish literature, modern Irish literature, or the Irish language and culture.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Early and Modern Irish program have gone on to pursue a variety of careers, including teaching, journalism, library archiving, and public service. The program also provides a strong foundation for further study and research in the field of Irish language and literature.

Study Abroad

Students on the Early and Modern Irish program may have the opportunity to spend a semester or year studying abroad, either in Ireland or in another country. This can provide students with a unique and enriching experience, as well as the opportunity to develop their language skills and cultural knowledge.

Research Areas

The Department of Irish at Trinity College Dublin has a strong research profile, with staff members working in a range of areas, including medieval Irish literature, modern Irish literature, and the Irish language and culture. Students on the Early and Modern Irish program may have the opportunity to work with staff members on research projects, or to pursue their own research interests.

Student Testimonial

The Early and Modern Irish program is structured perfectly to allow me to progress to the next step, whether that is further education and academic development or to other paths with the Irish language. I really enjoy the broad spectrum of topics, from the origins of the language to old Irish sagas and grammatical analysis in poetry and glosses. Our lecturers are so passionate about each subject and give us so much support to make sure we succeed. - Miriam Mangan, Student

Related Courses

• Early Irish (JH)
• Irish (JH)