Module Code
CEL1101
The emphasis in this course is on the modern language and culture. A range of modules will provide you with a broad understanding of diverse aspects of Irish culture and society and include the short story, the novel, and modern poetry. The growth of Gaelic identity is also explored and insight into the country’s wider heritage is developed through the study of mythology, folklore and Scottish Gaelic.
Celtic Studies students are the happiest graduates in UK (The Times, 2023)
The BA Irish will exempt you from examinations for An Teastas Gaeilge do Mhúinteoirí Iarbhunscoile for teaching in the Republic of Ireland.
Queen's University Belfast is committed to providing a range of international opportunities to its students during their degree programme. Current and past students have studied and taught in the USA as part of the Study USA and Fulbright Programmes.
We have former students in senior positions in various Irish language sectors and we maintain strong links with media production companies, the translation sector and language promotion agencies.
Queen’s has an excellent library for Irish materials and an outstanding collection of resources relating to Ireland.
Queen’s has world-leading experts in the history of the Irish language and literature, Irish linguistics and Gaelic names. Queen’s had the highest ranked research unit including Irish and Celtic languages in the most recent Research Excellence Framework. (REF 2014)
Students have a unique opportunity to engage with native speakers through attendance at an annual Gaeltacht residential in Rannafast, Donegal. The course lasts 3 weeks at takes place at the end of Stage 1 and Stage 2.
Graduates can continue to a Master of Research (MRes) programme as well as courses such as MA Translation and PGCE.
Irish has a bespoke online platform for language learning called Learning Branch (this contains a range of subject-specific langauge tasks and mirrors content in language modules)
Strong emphasis on Irish language and culture. Students complete 3-4 hours of language per week (interactive classes based on the national syllabus for Irish). Teaching on all core and most optional modules is conducted through the medium of Irish .
The Irish student society, An Cumann Gaelach, is one of the biggest in QUB. The society is extremely active and holds a range of events and activities each year (annual festival, Irish classes, concerts, annual dinner-dance, etc.).
Our work placement module gives students the opportunity to gain experience in a wide range of careers in the Irish language sector.
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Course content
In their first year students must take a core double module on Gaelic language, plus at least two further Gaelic / Celtic modules. Students can also choose two further modules from a wide range available from across the Faculty, allowing them to follow their interests as well as developing the skills needed to succeed at University level study. Students are normally required to spend a total of 3 weeks in the Gaeltacht in Ireland at an approved place of residence between Level 1 and Level 2
In their second year, students must take one core double module in the Irish language, which builds on the skills and knowledge gained in year 1. They also take four further optional modules, examining Irish literature and culture in further detail. Students are also normally required to spend a total of 3 weeks in the Gaeltacht in Ireland between stages 2 and 3.
In year 3, students will take one core double module, plus a range of optional modules which are rooted in staff research expertise. They may also opt to undertake a dissertation in Irish language or literature, and/or a work placement module.
4 (hours maximum)
hours of lectures (25-50 students) per week
6 (hours maximum)
6 hours of tutorials or small group teaching per week; for your dissertation you will have a mixture of small group teaching and personal tutorials
24 (hours maximum)
22–24 hours studying and revising in your own time each week, including independent reading, language practice, vocabulary development, guided study, online activities, coursework preparation etc
At Queen’s, we aim to deliver a high quality learning environment that embeds intellectual curiosity, innovation and best practice in learning, teaching and student support to enable our students to achieve their full academic potential.
On the BA in Irish we do this by providing a range of learning experiences which enable our students to engage with subject experts, develop attributes and perspectives that will equip them for life and work in society and make use of innovative technologies and a world class library that enhances their development as independent, lifelong learners.
Examples of the opportunities provided for learning on this course are:
A wide range of information associated with modules is communicated via a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) called Canvas. Typically, lecture notes are provided through Canvas for each module along with other support material. Much of the recommended reading is available through the same environment. Almost all coursework is submitted and returned, with marks and feedback, electronically.
Students taking a BA in Irish spend a total of six weeks on a dedicated summer course in Rinn na Feirste in Donegal. Here, students engage with native speakers while staying in accommodation with a host family. Intensive, structured tuition is provided by qualified native Irish speakers during the course involving approximately 60 hours of placement learning during each course. In addition to the benefits for oral competence in Irish, the residence course provides a unique opportunity for immersion in Gaeltacht culture and establishes a tremendous camaraderie among students.
Intensive 2-hour language enrichment classes provide students with opportunities to develop oral skills and develop their knowledge of grammar and vocabulary in real-life, practical contexts. These classes are taught in very small groups (typically 12-15 students). Students will also be expected to attend one class per week on language accuracy
These introduce you to basic information about new topics as a starting point for your own further private study/reading. Lectures also provide opportunities to ask questions, gain some feedback and advice on assessments (normally delivered in larger groups of approximately 25-50 students). Only a small number of our modules are delivered in this way.
Students are allocated a Personal Tutor who meets with them on several occasions during the year to support their academic development. This gives students one identified contact with whom to discuss any difficulties they might encounter and who can answer any queries they might have.
This is an essential part of life as a Queen’s student when important private reading, engagement with e-learning resources, reflection on feedback and assignment research and preparation work is carried out.
Almost all of the teaching in Irish is carried out in small groups (typically 15 students). These provide significant opportunities for you to engage with academic staff who have specialist knowledge of the topic, to ask questions and to assess your own progress and understanding with the support of your classmates. You will also be expected to make presentations and other contributions to these groups. All of our language teaching and the vast majority of our other modules are delivered through the medium of Irish in small-group situations.
Details of assessments associated with this course are outlined below:
As students progress through this course they will receive general and specific feedback about their work from a variety of sources including lecturers, module convenors, personal tutors, advisers of study and your peers. University students are expected to engage with reflective practice and to use this approach to improve the quality of their work. Feedback may be provided in a variety of forms including:
The information below is intended as an example only, featuring module details for the current year of study (2024/25). Modules are reviewed on an annual basis and may be subject to future changes – revised details will be published through Programme Specifications ahead of each academic year.
Course contents: This module aims to consolidate and develop the students’ existing written and oral language skills as well as their knowledge of Irish society and culture. It consists of three elements: a) a two-hour language enrichment session based on the National Syllabus for Irish Language Teaching at 3rd Level; b) a one-hour interactive class on grammatical accuracy, and c) a one-hour skills-based language workshop.
1. Language Enrichment (2hrs per week)
The ability to discuss a range of topics in Irish related to the student experience forms the core of this element. Topics include university life, careers, the Gaeltacht and language learning. Vocabulary and linguistic competence will be developed through a range of methods that may include: group discussion, oral presentation, creative writing, critical review, essay and report. A wide range of multimedia resources will be used to facilitate learning.
2. Language Accuracy (1hr per week)
The weekly class will focus on various aspects of Irish grammar with the aim of reinforcing knowledge gained at A-Level and providing a solid foundation for the future study of the language. Topics covered will include grammatical cases and nominal inflections, the verbal system, and sentence structure.
3. Language Workshop (1hr per week)
This weekly workshop will focus on the development of core linguistic skills required for negotiating a degree pathway in Irish (essay writing / referencing / study skills / presentation and communication skills / exam preparation / use and application of technology for academic purposes). These skills will be developed through interaction with a variety of guest speakers from the Irish language sector.
Students who successfully complete this module should:
1. be able to demonstrate a level of fluency and accuracy in speech and writing, and a range of vocabulary and expression, so as to be able to discuss a range of issues related to their current lives with some variation in usage.
2. be able to read a wide variety of Standard Irish texts related to the course and identify specific information and ideas within them.
3. be able to demonstrate a good grasp of structures of the language covered in the module and their broader linguistic context and the ability to use appropriate reference works including dictionaries and grammars.
4. be able to organise and present a reasonably coherent argument in Irish relating to topics covered in the course, and present their knowledge and ideas in a range of formats and registers such as letters, essays, reports, blogs, etc.
On successful completion of the modules students should have developed the following range of skills:
Oral and written communication; IT and multimedia; improving own learning and performance; time management.
Coursework
30%
Examination
45%
Practical
25%
40
CEL1101
Full Year
24 weeks
This module will provide an introduction to modern literature in Irish. It will explore the cultural, political and social backdrop against which contemporary literature in Irish is being produced, and will focus on a selection of key themes and texts.
On completion of this module, students will have acquired knowledge and understanding of modern literature in Irish and its cultural context.
Analytical and evaluative skills; development of ability in synthesis and analysis of diverse information, and construction of arguments in written form using appropriate sources.
Coursework
70%
Examination
0%
Practical
30%
20
CEL1006
Spring
12 weeks
This module will examine the role of language in politics and conflict in the broad historical context of Ireland and Scotland (and with particular reference to contemporary Northern Ireland). It will consider the many dynamics at play including the connections between language, power, and identity. Attitudes to monolingualism and multilingualism globally will be examined, as will the relationship between language and dialect, and the role of identity in the emergence, creation and maintenance of a language and distinct communities of speakers. The module will consider especially two major linguistic traditions: Irish and Scottish Gaelic, on the one hand, and Scots and Ulster Scots on the other. The primary emphasis will be on Irish and there will be a particular focus on debates and tensions around the role and importance of indigenous languages in contemporary society.
On completion of this module, students will:
1. Appreciate the relationship between language and power, and the role of this in politics and conflict in a global context.
2. Understand the nature and extent of bilingualism and multilingualism in an international context and the impact of monolingualism on language maintenance.
3. Relate their understanding to the historical context of Ireland and Scotland.
4. Apply their knowledge to the question of language and conflict in Northern Ireland.
5. Understand the relationship between language and dialect, and the role of identity and human agency in the creation of ‘language’.
1. Possess key transferable key skills, particularly the ability to reflect deeply and communicate effectively (in writing).
2. Work with information, handle diverse data, and draw conclusions (analysis, attention to detail, judgment).
3. Demonstrate an ability to prioritise tasks and work to deadlines.
4. Improve confidence in written communication.
5. Develop self-awareness, and the ability to reflect on and evaluate feedback on written work.
Coursework
100%
Examination
0%
Practical
0%
20
CEL1007
Spring
12 weeks
This module will explore the evidence for the mythology of the Celtic-speaking peoples from the earliest times as found in ancient and medieval sources in Ireland, Britain and the Continent with particular focus on Ireland. We will examine the evidence for early Irish ideologies, the native gods and the Otherworld. You will also study the nature of the surviving sources to enable you to assess their reliability and determine how they can be properly used for the study of early Irish and Celtic history and belief.
A knowledge and understanding of the mythology and beliefs of Celtic-speaking peoples
Critical and analytical thinking; research; independent learning; time management.
Coursework
100%
Examination
0%
Practical
0%
20
CEL1033
Autumn
12 weeks
Building on skills acquired at Level 1, this module aims to develop further competence in spoken and written language using a broad range of tasks and assessment methods in keeping with the National Syllabus for Irish Language Teaching at 3rd Level. In addition, students will engage with contextual study to develop cultural and linguistic awareness. The module will contain the following elements:
1. Language Enrichment (2hrs per week)
This component will focus on enhancing oral and written ability through engagement with a range of multimedia texts (at appropriate level) based on a variety of topics introduced and discussed on a weekly basis. Topics will deal with current themes in society and the student experience, and will be chosen to facilitate a range of teaching methods to include group discussion, individual/group oral presentations, reviews, reports and synopsis writing.
2. Language Accuracy (1hr per week)
This component will reinforce and develop to a more advanced level the written competence and grammatical accuracy gained by students at level 1. Topics covered will include verbal nouns and infinitive structures, syntax of the copula and the genitive case.
3. Contextual Study (1hr per week)
This component will raise awareness of cultural and linguistic issues in Irish and allow students to deepen their perspective of the field. Issues introduced and discussed will be earlier forms of the Irish language, and Irish phonetics.
On successful completion of the modules students should:
1) be able to demonstrate a level of fluency, accuracy and spontaneity in speech and writing, and a broad range of vocabulary and expression, so as to be able to discuss a range of complex issues.
2) be able to read a wide variety of Irish texts and identify important information and ideas within them.
3) be able to demonstrate a good grasp of structures of the language covered in the module and their broader linguistic context and identify and use appropriate reference works including dictionaries and grammars.
4) be able to organise and present a coherent argument in Irish relating to topics covered in the course, and present their knowledge and ideas in a range of formats and registers such as reports, presentations, synopses and blogs.
5) be able to display knowledge of earlier periods of the language and the phonology of Irish.
On successful completion of the modules students should have developed the following range of skills: Oral and written communication; IT and multimedia use; time-management; independent learning and critical reflection.
Coursework
40%
Examination
35%
Practical
25%
40
CEL2101
Full Year
24 weeks
In this module, you will read and analyse a selection of key, early medieval Irish myths and sagas including The Cattle-Raid of Cooley and the Tale of Mac Dathó’s Pig. You will be taught how to properly contextualise and critically analyse selected tales and explore recurrent themes such as love, gender, kingship, greed and war. We will see how medieval authors projected their own lives and beliefs back onto the ancient past, created their own history and sought to influence society around them.
At the end of the module, the students should possess knowledge and understanding of:
• a selection of tales from early Ireland
• the early Irish ideology of kingship and its reflection in the literature,
• issues of masculinity and femininity in saga literature
This module will develop students’ capacity to
• analyse historical literary texts and situate those texts within their historical and cultural context
• identify contemporary concerns within medieval texts
• identify suitable resources from a reading list
• plan their own study and learn independently
• communicate ideas fluently in an appropriate register
Coursework
100%
Examination
0%
Practical
0%
20
CEL2009
Autumn
12 weeks
The module is designed for beginners and aims to teach all four key language skills, namely listening, speaking, reading and writing. The text book is supplemented by aural and oral exercises accessible on all the student workstations in the Language Centre. Regular written assignments are required to reinforce the grammar taught in class, particularly language drills which are marked and returned with feedback.
At the end of the module, the student should be able to demonstrate an ability to translate simple passages from English into Scottish Gaelic and from Scottish Gaelic into English, using basic sentence structures and a limited vocabulary.
Linguistic analysis and comparison; translation; communication; IT; independent learning; time management.
Coursework
50%
Examination
50%
Practical
0%
20
CEL2017
Spring
12 weeks
Since the 1990s, literature about international conflicts has ‘emerged as a significant sub-genre in Irish-language writing’ (Máirín Nic Eoin, 2018). This interest in global conflicts and crises is in contrast to the observed focus on ‘Irishness’ in much Irish writing in English.
This interdisciplinary module critically engages with the theoretical frameworks of human rights and considers how human rights discourses since the Second World War have informed writing in Irish. Taking a thematic approach, the lectures will address how Irish writers have grappled with catastrophic global events, such as the Holocaust, Hiroshima, Chernobyl, the Israeli–Palestinian conflict, the Iraqi War, 9/11, the climate crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic. Particular attention will be afforded to the ethical and aesthetic challenges posed by such ‘secondary witnessing’ given that the writers did not experience the events themselves.
On successful completion of this module, learners will be able to:
- demonstrate a critical understanding of the development of human rights legislation and the aesthetic and political challenges of representing of human rights violations in literature
- engage with secondary literature on human lights and minority language literature
- critically examine a selection of literary representations of conflict
- formulate research essays
This module will enable students to
• analyse and critique forms of various forms of representations of conflict, in poetry and fiction
• articulate points of view through informal discussion and class presentations
• demonstrate presentation, reading and writing skills (in Irish)
• develop research skills
• plan study time and learn independently
Coursework
100%
Examination
0%
Practical
0%
20
CEL2003
Spring
12 weeks
This module will examine the short story as a distinct genre within the Irish-language literary canon. We will analyse the development of the short story from the early 20th Century to the present day using a selection of representative texts from authors such as Pádraig Mac Piarais, Pádraig Ó Conaire, Seosamh Mac Grianna, Máirtín Ó Cadhain, Liam Ó Flaithearta, Máire Mhac an tSaoi, Síle Ní Chéileachair, Alan Titley, Angela Bourke, Biddy Jenkinson, and numerous others. Students will investigate the historical and cultural factors that effected the ‘introduction’ of the short story in Irish-language writing, and analyse how opposing theories dealt with the modernist question. The formal aspects of the short story will be examined in detail– including plot, narrative progression and characterisation– and this analysis brought to bear on the intricate relationship between structure, style and subject matter.
Students will be able to:
• demonstrate a knowledge of the cultural and historical background of the short story
• provide a critical overview of the main developments associated with the genre in the 20th century
• show an in-depth understanding of the formal aspects of the short story
• apply relevant literary and stylistic theories to short story texts
This module will equip students with the capacity to
• analyse and reflect critically on literary texts
• conduct directed research on a chosen subject
• write a substantial essay piece
• plan their own study and learn independently
• manage their time effectively
Coursework
100%
Examination
0%
Practical
0%
20
CEL2026
Autumn
12 weeks
Building on skills acquired at level 2, this module aims to develop the skills and understanding that will be required to deal with a broader variety of language tasks. Linguistic, sociolinguistic and cultural awareness will be consolidated and deepened.
The module will contain the following elements:
1. Language Enrichment (2 hours per week)
This session will form the core of the module and will revolve around a set topic (at an appropriate level) each week. A variety of language acquisition and development methods will be employed: group discussion, oral presentation, reading and critical analysis, synopsis and independent writing.
2. Language Accuracy (1 hour per week)
This class will focus on particular aspects of the target language appropriate to this level (e.g. deeper structures involving copular and relative clause constructions, some of which will be further complicated by elements of regional variation).
3.Contextual Study (1hr per week).
This component, which will vary across the two semesters, will deepen and contextualise the other elements of the module by placing them in a broader sociolinguistic and/or historical linguistic context, for example, Dialectology (Sem. 1); The Irish Novel (Sem. 2).
On successful completion of the modules students should:
1) be able to demonstrate a high level of fluency, accuracy and spontaneity in oral and written communication, including the use of a broad variety of linguistic structures and vocabulary, congruent with carrying out activities in Irish in a professional environment;
2) be able to deal with a broad variety of material in the target language, including material which is complex and abstract, and which involves a variety of genres, dialects and registers;
3) be able to demonstrate an advanced knowledge of the structures of the language and their broader linguistic context and the ability to use appropriate reference works effectively;
4) be able to synthesise knowledge, identify key points, and structure and present arguments at a high level in a range of formats and registers;
5) be able to demonstrate understanding of core dialectal differences in Irish.
On successful completion of the modules students should have developed the following range of skills: The module will advance the skills acquired in Levels 1 and 2. Key skills which will be developed to a high level will be independent thinking and learning, self-reflection, and self-management.
Coursework
40%
Examination
35%
Practical
25%
40
CEL3101
Full Year
24 weeks
The work internship module will provide students with a practical exposure to working in an Irish-language setting. Students will undertake an internship (minumum of 50 hours across one semester) in an Irish-language organisation, public body, company, or educational service, where work is conducted through Irish. Students will be required to arrange this internship in consulation and in agreement with the module coordinator, and to complete relevant paperwork in advance of placemment.
The module will provide students with a breadth of practical experience in a professional Irish-language environment and the opportunity to apply and build on the skills attained from modules taken at level 1 and 2 (particularly professional oral and written language skills).
Students will be required to (i) maintain a weekly log book or diary which will describe their activities and what they have learned from these, (ii) complete a minimum of 50 hours work across one semester, (iii) prepare and present an oral presentation on their activities (20%), and (iv) complete a final essay piece (80%).
On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
• apply their academic experience and knowledge of Irish language in a professional setting
• appreciate and understand how Irish language businesses/organisations operate
• reflect on, evaluate, and report their own practice
• identify existing and new work-related skills
• report on enhanced knowledge of career pathways in the Irish language sector
• communicate professionally through the medium of Irish in a variety of modes (digitally,
verbally: written and oral)
• produce a professional report describing the details and experiences of their work placement and the details of the particular project on which they worked.
This module will enable students to:
• demonstrate a capacity for independent work in a professional setting
• demonstrate an understanding of what the placement organisation does, how it is managed, and the culture within the organisation
• identify the skills needed in relation to particular job/career opportunities
• analyse their own personal skills, identifying ways to improve through personal development planning
• demonstrate high-level presentation, reading and writing skills (in Irish)
Coursework
80%
Examination
0%
Practical
20%
20
CEL3010
Spring
12 weeks
This module examines the evolution of modern Irish poetry from 1940 to the present day, including the major poets of the period such as Seán Ó Ríordáin, Máire Mhac an tSaoi, Máirtín Ó Direáin, Cathal Ó Searcaigh, and Nuala Ní Dhomhnaill. It will explore themes such as language, displacement, nationhood, existence, sexuality and religion in their works and locate them within their contemporary social and political context.
Upon successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
• identify major developments in Irish-language poetry in the period 1940-present
• analyse the thematic concerns of major poets of this period and relate them to each other and current social/political developments
• show a detailed understanding of selected poems.
This module will develop students’ capacity to
• analyse and reflect critically on literary texts
• situate literary texts in their historical and cultural context
• identify suitable resources from a reading list
• plan their own study and learn independently
• communicate ideas fluently in an appropriate register in Irish.
Coursework
100%
Examination
0%
Practical
0%
20
CEL3026
Spring
12 weeks
This course will explore the phraseology of Irish. We will examine what phraseology is–the study of the structure, meaning and use of word combinations–and analyse types of multi-word expressions (MWEs) in the language. These phraseological units include proverbs and proverbial expressions, idioms, phrasal verbs, complex nominals, irreversible binomials, catch phrases, and memes. We will consider the difficulties associated with defining multi-word prefabricated expressions, examine the various criteria by which they may be identified, explore usage across a range of media, and find out why they are so important to linguistic knowledge. We will also learn how phraseological units can be studied in real texts.
On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
• demonstrate understanding of the concept of phraseology and its significance
• illustrate different types of phraseological units
• discuss issues related to the definition and identification of phraseological units
• identify phraseological units in texts and explain usage
• explain how phraseology is important in a range of applied areas of everyday life
• research, plan and complete a textual analysis and linguistic commentary using appropriate
referencing conventions
This module will enable students to:
• critically evaluate ideas and arguments
• present information and ideas clearly and coherently in Irish, including in discussion for a
• articulate points of view through informal discussion and class presentations
• analyse language samples qualitatively and quantitatively using a range of methods.
• plan study time and learn independently
Coursework
100%
Examination
0%
Practical
0%
20
CEL3011
Autumn
12 weeks
The dissertation (4000 words) will demonstrate a capacity for independent research, thought, judgment, and writing. Students will investigate and research a well-defined topic that has been negotiated with a member of staff and approved by the Irish and Celtic Staff Board. Students are supported throughout the process of researching and writing with guidance from a relevant academic supervisor. The dissertation is designed as an introduction to the skills that will be involved in postgraduate research and will comply with the substantive and formal requirements/conventions of an extended argumentative essay
Upon successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
(i) identify and refine an appropriate research question;
(ii) demonstrate a detailed knowledge of primary sources and the secondary literature relating to their chosen topic;
(iii) show knowledge and a critical understanding of the appropriate theoretical, textual and analytical techniques that are required to examine and evaluate their chosen subject;
(iv) develop and present a cogent and sustained argument across the dissertation;
(v) demonstrate an ability to draw conclusions based on valid research methods, analysis and arguments.
Students will acquire skills in:
(i) formulating appropriate research questions;
(ii) identifying, locating, and gathering information from a variety of sources;
(iii) analysing evidence and formulating reasoned conclusions; and
(iv) presenting the results of research and analysis in an appropriate format.
Coursework
100%
Examination
0%
Practical
0%
20
CEL3030
Both
12 weeks
An introduction to the classical literary language and culture of Gaelic Ireland and Scotland in the early modern period, c. 1200-1650, involving close reading of a selection of texts.
Students will acquire knowledge and understanding of the common literary language employed in Ireland and Scotland in the period c. 1200-1650, of its associated literature and of its cultural background.
Linguistic analysis; translation; critical and analytical thinking; independent learning; time management
Coursework
100%
Examination
0%
Practical
0%
20
CEL3023
Autumn
12 weeks
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Course content
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Entry requirements
ABB including A-level Irish
A maximum of one BTEC/OCR Single Award or AQA Extended Certificate will be accepted as part of an applicant's portfolio of qualifications with a Distinction* being equated to a grade A at A-level and a Distinction being equated to a grade B at A-level.
H3H3H3H3H3H3/H2H3H3H3H3 including Higher Level grade H3 in Irish
A minimum of a 2:2 Honours Degree, provided any subject requirement is also met
All applicants must have GCSE English Language grade C/4 or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University.
Applications are dealt with centrally by the Admissions and Access Service rather than by individual University Schools. Once your on-line form has been processed by UCAS and forwarded to Queen's, an acknowledgement is normally sent within two weeks of its receipt at the University.
Selection is on the basis of the information provided on your UCAS form. Decisions are made on an ongoing basis and will be notified to you via UCAS.
For last year's intake, applicants for this BA programme offering A-level/BTEC Level 3 qualifications must have had, or been able to achieve, a minimum of five GCSE passes at grade C/4 or better (to include English Language). Performance in any AS or A-level examinations already completed would also have been taken into account and the Selector checks that any specific entry requirements in terms of GCSE and/or A-level subjects can be fulfilled.
For applicants offering Irish Leaving Certificate, please note that performance at Irish Junior Certificate (IJC) is taken into account. For last year’s entry applicants for this degree must have had, a minimum of 5 IJC grades C/Merit. The Selector also checks that any specific entry requirements in terms of Leaving Certificate subjects can be satisfied.
Offers are normally be made on the basis of three A-levels. Two subjects at A-level plus two at AS would also be considered. The offer for repeat candidates is set in terms of three A-levels and may be one grade higher than that asked from first time applicants. Grades may be held from the previous year.
Applicants offering two A-levels and one BTEC Subsidiary Diploma/National Extended Certificate (or equivalent qualification), or one A-level and a BTEC Diploma/National Diploma (or equivalent qualification) will also be considered. Offers will be made in terms of the overall BTEC grade(s) awarded. Please note that a maximum of one BTEC Subsidiary Diploma/National Extended Certificate (or equivalent) will be counted as part of an applicant’s portfolio of qualifications. The normal GCSE profile will be expected.
Access courses, BTEC Extended Diplomas, Higher National Certificates, and Higher National Diplomas can be considered, provided the subject requirements for entry to Irish are also fulfilled.
The information provided in the personal statement section and the academic reference together with predicted grades are noted but, in the case of BA degrees, these are not the final deciding factors in whether or not a conditional offer can be made. However, they may be reconsidered in a tie break situation in August.
A-level General Studies and A-level Critical Thinking would not normally be considered as part of a three A-level offer and, although they may be excluded where an applicant is taking four A-level subjects, the grade achieved could be taken into account if necessary in August/September.
Candidates are not normally asked to attend for interview.
If you are made an offer then you may be invited to a Faculty/School Visit Day, which is usually held in the second semester. This will allow you the opportunity to visit the University and to find out more about the degree programme of your choice and the facilities on offer. It also gives you a flavour of the academic and social life at Queen's.
If you cannot find the information you need here, please contact the University Admissions and Access Service (admissions@qub.ac.uk), giving full details of your qualifications and educational background.
Our country/region pages include information on entry requirements, tuition fees, scholarships, student profiles, upcoming events and contacts for your country/region. Use the dropdown list below for specific information for your country/region.
An IELTS score of 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in each test component or an equivalent acceptable qualification, details of which are available at: http://go.qub.ac.uk/EnglishLanguageReqs
If you need to improve your English language skills before you enter this degree programme, INTO Queen's University Belfast offers a range of English language courses. These intensive and flexible courses are designed to improve your English ability for admission to this degree.
INTO Queen's offers a range of academic and English language programmes to help prepare international students for undergraduate study at Queen's University. You will learn from experienced teachers in a dedicated international study centre on campus, and will have full access to the University's world-class facilities.
These programmes are designed for international students who do not meet the required academic and English language requirements for direct entry.
Studying for a degree in Irish at Queen‘s will assist students in developing the core skills and employment-related experiences that are valued by employers, particularly in a world where critical thinking, cross-cultural awareness and communication skills are at a premium.
Careers pursued by graduates in Irish can include teacher, language development officer, translator, manager, TV presenter, producer, writer and researcher. Graduates may also enter careers in business, management consultancy and software development.
88% of our graduates are in employment or further study within 6 months of graduation. Starting salaries may be in the region of £21,800.
Queen’s has strong links with a number of employers including the Department for Communities, the BBC, Irish Language Broadcast Fund and other media companies, and employers are routinely invited to address the Irish students. Many of our students work in primary and secondary schools as classroom assistants and language assistants while studying for their degree. Other opportunities to gain employment experience are provided by media companies located in the area and theatre and community groups in Belfast.
Donohoe Prize: awarded for the highest mark in the oral examination at Stage 2.
Emrys Evans Book Prize: awarded at Stages 1 + 2 for the best performance in the written language examination.
Foundation Scholarships: recognise outstanding achievement in Stage 1.
John Devlin Fund: Awarded annually to the Final Year student with the highest overall mark in the Irish Language module at Stage 3.
Students receive a certificate of distinction for first class performance in the Stage 3 oral.
In addition to your degree programme, at Queen's you can have the opportunity to gain wider life, academic and employability skills. For example, placements, voluntary work, clubs, societies, sports and lots more. So not only do you graduate with a degree recognised from a world leading university, you'll have practical national and international experience plus a wider exposure to life overall. We call this Degree Plus/Future Ready Award. It's what makes studying at Queen's University Belfast special.
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Entry Requirements
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Fees and Funding
Northern Ireland (NI) 1 | £4,750 |
Republic of Ireland (ROI) 2 | £4,750 |
England, Scotland or Wales (GB) 1 | £9,250 |
EU Other 3 | £20,800 |
International | £20,800 |
1EU citizens in the EU Settlement Scheme, with settled status, will be charged the NI or GB tuition fee based on where they are ordinarily resident. Students who are ROI nationals resident in GB will be charged the GB fee.
2 EU students who are ROI nationals resident in ROI are eligible for NI tuition fees.
3 EU Other students (excludes Republic of Ireland nationals living in GB, NI or ROI) are charged tuition fees in line with international fees.
The tuition fees quoted above for NI and ROI are the 2024/25 fees and will be updated when the new fees are known. In addition, all tuition fees will be subject to an annual inflationary increase in each year of the course. Fees quoted relate to a single year of study unless explicitly stated otherwise.
Tuition fee rates are calculated based on a student’s tuition fee status and generally increase annually by inflation. How tuition fees are determined is set out in the Student Finance Framework.
Single Honour Irish students are required to spend 2 periods of residence in the Gaeltacht between Years 1 and 2 and between Years 2 and 3. The trips are subsidised by the School but each student is required to pay a contribution per residency (currently £180, i.e. £360 in total).
Depending on the programme of study, there may be extra costs which are not covered by tuition fees, which students will need to consider when planning their studies.
Students can borrow books and access online learning resources from any Queen's library. If students wish to purchase recommended texts, rather than borrow them from the University Library, prices per text can range from £30 to £100. Students should also budget between £30 to £75 per year for photocopying, memory sticks and printing charges.
Students undertaking a period of work placement or study abroad, as either a compulsory or optional part of their programme, should be aware that they will have to fund additional travel and living costs.
If a programme includes a major project or dissertation, there may be costs associated with transport, accommodation and/or materials. The amount will depend on the project chosen. There may also be additional costs for printing and binding.
Students may wish to consider purchasing an electronic device; costs will vary depending on the specification of the model chosen.
There are also additional charges for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines.
There are different tuition fee and student financial support arrangements for students from Northern Ireland, those from England, Scotland and Wales (Great Britain), and those from the rest of the European Union.
Information on funding options and financial assistance for undergraduate students is available at www.qub.ac.uk/Study/Undergraduate/Fees-and-scholarships/.
Each year, we offer a range of scholarships and prizes for new students. Information on scholarships available.
Information on scholarships for international students, is available at www.qub.ac.uk/Study/international-students/international-scholarships.
Application for admission to full-time undergraduate and sandwich courses at the University should normally be made through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). Full information can be obtained from the UCAS website at: www.ucas.com/students.
UCAS will start processing applications for entry in autumn 2025 from early September 2024.
The advisory closing date for the receipt of applications for entry in 2025 is still to be confirmed by UCAS but is normally in late January (18:00). This is the 'equal consideration' deadline for this course.
Applications from UK and EU (Republic of Ireland) students after this date are, in practice, considered by Queen’s for entry to this course throughout the remainder of the application cycle (30 June 2025) subject to the availability of places. If you apply for 2025 entry after this deadline, you will automatically be entered into Clearing.
Applications from International and EU (Other) students are normally considered by Queen's for entry to this course until 30 June 2025. If you apply for 2025 entry after this deadline, you will automatically be entered into Clearing.
Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as is consistent with having made a careful and considered choice of institutions and courses.
The Institution code name for Queen's is QBELF and the institution code is Q75.
Further information on applying to study at Queen's is available at: www.qub.ac.uk/Study/Undergraduate/How-to-apply/
The terms and conditions that apply when you accept an offer of a place at the University on a taught programme of study. Queen's University Belfast Terms and Conditions.
Download Undergraduate Prospectus
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Fees and Funding