The Masters in Irish Regional History offers both a challenging and rewarding introduction into the advanced study of history by combining a range of taught modules with opportunities for independent research. The programme aims to produce historians who will find, preserve and communicate this history within the academic and public arenas, and gain employment in the fields of heritage, tourism, media and education. 

The Masters in Irish Regional History is validated and awarded by the South East Technological University (SETU).
Upon completion of the course, students should be able to:

• Understand the significance of regional history, heritage and oral history
• Source and evaluate archival materials for the study of history
• Collect, interpret and present oral history in accordance with best practice standards
• Assess and analyse data and present research findings, particularly with reference to use of digital technologies
• Carry out research and study in the fields of regional history and cultural heritage
• Undertake a significant piece of independent, original, scholarly research in a specialist area of study

Programme Highlights
The Masters in Irish Regional History is distinctive in offering this regional, cultural and oral history aspect of its programme. Learning regional or local history can motivate learning about how the grand scheme of historical change has been made up of countless individuals and often ordinary people that contributed to a specific region.

Over the course of four semesters, students will take seven modules, culminating in the completion of a significant independent research project. Students will carry out research and study in the fields of regional history and cultural heritage that will have a focus on the south-east, butmay submit research proposals and projects that relate to other Irish regions.

Key areas of study include:
• Economics, religion, culture and politics in medieval Ireland
• Insurgency, counter-insurgency and repression, secret societies, sectarianism
• Plagues and epidemics
• Irish emigrants embracing life in the USA

Watch our recent Online Information Session here

Each semester is 20 weeks, with two evenings per week from 6.30pm to 9.30pm for 12 weeks of lectures/seminars running from September to December and January to May, aside from the thesis which will encompass 32 weeks of mainly independent study/research.

In Year 1, classes will be delivered one night on-campus and one night online. In Year 2, there is only one night of classes on-campus.

Semester 1
Exploring Historiography and Research Methods
Discourse and Dissonance: Themes in Regional History

Semester 2
Historical Research, Design and Practice
Stories from the Archives: Doing Irish Regional History
Cultural Heritage
Revealing Hidden Voices: Oral History

Semester 3
Emerging Histories: Research Seminars
Thesis

Semester 4
Thesis

The M.A. in Irish Regional History aims to provide graduates with the skills and expertise to pursue a range of professional pathways, for example:

• heritage agencies and centres;
• County Council Heritage Officers;
• museums and tourism;
• charities and NGOs;
• research positions in government agencies, and
• arts administration.

It is also a fantastic opportunity for professional development for those in the wider heritage sector.

Employability is not the only reason to acquire a postgraduate degree. Students also enjoy the chance to pursue their field of interest at a more advanced level, which can also lead to opportunity for further study or research opportunities.

Aoife O’Carroll | Secondary Teacher

Why did you choose Carlow College for your studies?
It was the Masters course that was provided which made me pick the college. Also when I watched the information Zoom lecture by the lecturers last year it really made up my mind. The lecturers really sold it to me and got rid of any doubts I had over starting the course.

What do you like most about the M.A. in Irish Regional History?
I am learning so much more than I thought I ever would plus it has open so many other areas of history that I never thought about before or was aware of.

The lecturers are very welcoming and helpful. The people in the library have been so helpful also and everyone is very friendly in the college.

Why would you recommend this course to others?
It is a safe environment to learn and feels a special place which is full of history. Everyone helps each other.

Entry Requirements

Hold a primary degree (Level 8) awarded at Second-Class Honours, Grade 2 (or equivalent)*

Applicants whose first language is not English must be able to provide evidence that their spoken and written level of English is adequate for successful participation in the programme

*Applicants who hold a degree at Level 8 with an award of pass or who hold a degree at Level 7 (or equivalent) may be considered with evidence of relevant career practice for a minimum period of three years or a portfolio of publication in historical or cognate studies.

In exceptional circumstances, applicants who do not hold a degree at Level 7 or Level 8 on the NFQ may be considered for entry subject to evidence of relevant career practice for a minimum period of 8 years or who can evidence a substantial portfolio of publication in historical or cognate studies.

Fees

Tuition fees: €2,250 per year 

Protection of Enrolled Learning (PEL): €67.50 per year

Full details on fees is available here

Applications

Applications for September 2024 intake are now open and will close on 31st May 2024. Applications can be submitted via our Postgraduate Application Form.

To apply, you will need to upload the following with the Postgraduate Application Form:

• Official transcripts for all Level 8 (or above) qualifications held – a full transcript of your results across the various stages of your degree
• Official certificates/documentation in relation to education/training completed which is relevant to the programme
• Personal Statement–minimum 300 words outlining your reasons for undertaking the chosen course.
• Written reference outlining your suitability for the programme applied for Intellectual qualities, including; professional and educational developments; present performance; personal qualities; career aspirations; and, research/study interests.
• If English is not your first language, you’ll need to provide proof of English Language Proficiency

Please ensure to include your name in the file name of all documents you upload.