Irish Studies
Discover Ireland’s global influence through literature, language, and culture.
Requirements:
15 credit hours
independent study or capstone (optional)
Open to:
all undergraduate students
Disciplinary Focus:
political science; anthropology; history; sociology; Irish language, literature and music
The Irish studies minor invites you to explore the rich cultural, historical, and political legacy of Ireland. Some students choose the minor because they are fascinated by Irish literature and its themes; others want to explore the history, language, politics and culture of a country that has long been influential on the world stage.
Courses, research opportunities and experiential learning — including internships, cultural events and Irish language immersion — are offered on the Notre Dame campus and in Ireland with generous funding available.
With small classes, visiting speakers, and close mentorship from passionate faculty, students become part of a vibrant learning community rooted in Notre Dame’s long-standing connection to Ireland.
This minor is proudly administered by the Keough School’s Keough-Naughton Institute for Irish Studies.
Curriculum
15 Credit Hours
The minor in Irish studies has no specific core or required courses. Rather, students may choose from any classes cross-listed with Irish studies from across the university.
As a multidisciplinary program, the minor in Irish studies offers electives in numerous fields, including political science, history, literature, Irish language, music, sociology and anthropology. Sample courses include:
- Beginning Irish I
- Irish Modern Art: Identity and Representation
- Humor in Irish Literature
- Remembering Ireland: Public Memory and Private Memory in Memoir, Film and Song
- The Hidden Ireland: Themes and Issues in Eighteenth-Century Irish Poetry
- Celtic and Viking Mythology
Independent Study
Students may complete one 3-credit independent study with a faculty fellow in place of a course.
Study Abroad
Courses may be taken entirely at Notre Dame or split between campus and study abroad programs in Dublin or Galway. Irish language courses are encouraged but not required. Minors also receive special consideration for study abroad and internship opportunities in Ireland administered by Notre Dame Global.
“When we study Ireland, we’re not only studying that rich literary and cultural history. We’re also trying to understand what the history of that island can tell us about the world.”
Ready to take the next step?
For more information about the minor in Irish studies, contact Tara MacLeod at tmacleo1@nd.edu.