Irish Regional History

The Postgraduate Diploma in Irish Regional History offers both a challenging and rewarding introduction into the advanced study of history by combining a range of taught modules as well as opportunities for independent research. The programme is designed to provide a comparative analysis between counties in different areas, rather than focusing historical events at a very local level.

The degree is validated and awarded by the South East Technological University (SETU).

Programme Highlights
Over the course of three semesters, students will take seven modules, culminating in the completion of an Irish Regional History Project.

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

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.

During Semester 1 & 2, classes will be delivered one night on-campus and one night online. In Semester 3, 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
Irish Regional History Project

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.

Limited spaces remain on the PgDip in Irish Regional History. Applications will continue to be accepted until places are full. 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.

18 months (hybrid)

Start: September

This 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 Postgraduate Diploma 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 pursue a postgraduate degree. Students also enjoy the chance to pursue their undergraduate subject or field of interest at a more advanced level. A postgraduate diploma can allow students to follow a subject that they have passion for where the end goal is education and knowledge, and this can also enhance job prospects. It also encourages lifelong learning and is useful for progression to undertaking an M.A. programme. Students have the opportunity to progress to the M.A. in Irish Regional History on successful completion of semester one and two of the Postgraduate Diploma in Irish Regional History.