University College Cork

Overview

The Celtic Civilisation course at University College Cork offers an in-depth exploration of medieval Celtic literature, language, and cultural history. This intensive programme allows you to engage with a range of Second and Third Arts modules, tailored to align with your background and interests. Upon completion, you will earn a Higher Diploma in Celtic Civilisation.

What you'll study

• Award: Higher Diploma in Celtic Civilisation
• Credits: 60 credits from selected modules
• Duration: 12 months full-time or 24 months part-time
• Delivery: University-based study with attendance and coursework requirements
• Programme focus: Medieval Celtic literature, cultural themes, and historical contexts
• Language of instruction: English
• Entry route: Designed for graduates from diverse disciplines

Programme structure (60 credits total): You will engage in a combination of approved modules, which may cover a variety of themes such as:

• Early Celtic lyric poetry and themes of exile
• Medieval Irish religious practices and traditions
• Legal culture in medieval Ireland, including Brehon law
• Celtic language studies and medieval linguistic approaches
• Spirituality and religious thought in early Ireland
• Gender and identity in medieval narratives
• Welsh narratives, including the Mabinogi
• Connections between Ireland and Scotland in the Gaelic world
• Otherworld journeys in Celtic literature
• Irish historical narratives
• The Finn Cycle and heroic traditions
• Origins of Arthurian legend and its Celtic contributions
• Directed research in medieval Celtic culture

Assessment: Assessment methods typically include coursework and written assignments, with specific requirements varying by module. Please refer to the programme website for detailed assessment information.

Entry requirements

This programme is aimed at applicants who possess a primary degree, generally a 3- or 4-year undergraduate qualification. While prior study in Arts or Sciences is beneficial, the course serves as a conversion pathway for those who may not have a background in Celtic studies at the Honours Degree level.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Celtic Civilisation programme can pursue various career paths, including roles in education, cultural heritage, research, and the arts. The skills developed during your studies will enable you to engage critically with historical texts and cultural narratives, making you well-suited for positions in academia, museums, and cultural institutions.