Course Requirements:
This degree is offered through the English Department. Students take 30 credit hours (10 Courses) as follows:
12 credit hours (4 Courses) in Irish Studies courses within the English Department. These courses are listed every semester at the Irish Studies Web site.
3 credit hours (1 Course) in an Irish Studies course outside the English Department. These courses are listed every semester at the Irish Studies Web site.
6 credit hours (2 Courses) in Irish Language.
9 credit hours (3 Courses) in other electives. When choosing additional electives students are strongly encouraged to consider interdisciplinary, theory and cultural studies courses.
Oral Examination:
The final component of the MA is the Oral Examination. The exam usually lasts between 1 and 1 1/2 hours. Students may fail, pass,or pass with distinction.
In preparation for the exam, students should follow this schedule:
Early in the third semester, students develop ideas for their exams and contact potential committee members.Each committee must contain two Irish Studies faculty, but students are free to add extra committee members.
By the end of the third semester students submit a brief (1-2 pages) project description and preliminary bibliography. A typical list includes 15-20 primary sources and additional secondary materials.
Students are expected to meet with their committee members periodically as they prepare for their exams.
Students should set up their exam schedules by March 15 with the English Department secretary.
Irish Language:
The Irish language is a central component in the study of Irish literature and culture. Students are required to take at least one year (6 credits) of Irish. In addition, students are encouraged to study Irish in Ireland during the summer. Faculty can direct students to language immersion programs in Ireland (typically equivalent to 6 BC credits), and limited funding may be available. Contact the BC Center for International Partnerships and Programs for details.
All students are urged to seek Prof.O'Leary's advice about the extent to which the Irish language will be important for their areas of interest.
Advising:
The English Department assigns each MA student a faculty advisor. Irish Studies MA students are encouraged to seek additional advice from Irish Studies faculty.
Conferences:
MA students are strongly encouraged to participate in professional meetings and conferences. Irish studies faculty offers editorial advice and practice sessions for students presenting conference papers. This process helps students with preparation, delivery, timing and responding to questions.
Colloquium:
Twice a semester faculty, students, or visitors present work in progress to their colleagues. This forum is important to the life of the Irish Studies community. All graduate students are required to attend these meetings, and are encouraged to present their own work.
The Burns Scholar:
Each academic year, the Burns Library welcomes a distinguished scholar, writer or artist who has made significant contributions to Irish cultural and intellectual life. MA students are encouraged to enroll in one of the courses offered by the Burns Scholar and to take advantage of his/her presence on campus.
Abbey Program:
MA students who want to pursue graduate research in Ireland during the summer can get credit for participating in the Abbey Theatre Program.
Calendar of Events:
Every semester the Irish Studies Program sponsors a wide range of public events. These events expose students to currents issues and debates, and offer opportunities to meet scholars working in the field.
Financial Aid:
Irish Studies MA students are eligible for all English Department scholarships and teaching fellowships.
For further information regarding graduate programs in Irish Studies at BC, please review our Web Site, Irish Studies.
