Modules

• Year 1

  Core Modules

  Contemporary Europe (20 credits)

  ×

  Contemporary Europe

  Overview

  The module provides a wide-ranging introduction to political developments in contemporary Europe. Following analysis of the nature and consequences for Europe of the Cold War, the module analyses some of the major political, economic and security challenges Europe has had to face since 1989 including the processes of economic and political transformation in Central and Eastern Europe as well as war in the former Yugoslavia and Ukraine. Featuring prominently in the module are developments in the process of European integration with a primary focus on the EU, how it is organized and operates, what powers it has, the attitudes of selected states in contemporary Europe towards membership, and the effects of integration on them. In doing so, the module considers the origins and implications of the Eurozone crisis for European integration as well as public attitudes towards the process.

  Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of this module, students will
  1. Understand the historical background to contemporary Europe;
  2. Analyse critically selected major political developments and trends in Europe since the end of the Cold War;
  3. Appreciate key concepts and understandings associated with the political organization of Europe;
  4. Appreciate key concepts and understandings associated with the European Union as a political entity;
  5. Analyse how the major European states have engaged with the European Union since 1957;
  6. Understand public reactions to European integration.
  7. Appreciate selected major political and security challenges facing contemporary

  Skills

  The module will develop students' analytical, research and communication skills; allow students to refine their essay-writing skills; and enhance their abilities to think critically.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  1

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI1001

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Core

  Gaeilge 1 (40 credits)

  ×

  Gaeilge 1

  Overview

  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.

  Learning Outcomes

  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.

  Skills

  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

  40%

  Examination

  35%

  Practical

  25%

  Stage/Level

  1

  Credits

  40

  Module Code

  CEL1101

  Teaching Period

  Full Year

  Duration

  24 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Core

  Perspectives on Politics (20 credits)

  ×

  Perspectives on Politics

  Overview

  This module aims to introduce students to the broad field of political theory and philosophy, a necessary and integral component of the study of politics generally. Taking a contemporary approach to the subject, the module stresses the vital importance of theoretical enquiry for understanding, analysing, and criticizing everyday socio-political life. Students are therefore introduced to key concepts and problems in the study of politics, including the meaning of democracy, the fraught relation between the individual and society, and the contested nature of power and political authority. In exploring these themes, students come to an appreciation of the complexities surrounding our everyday notions of democratic rule, freedom, justice, citizenship, government, and power.

  Learning Outcomes

  Students should acquire an understanding of a number of ways of conceptualising and analysing critically key aspects of political life. On successful completion of the module they will have demonstrated capacities for reading texts in contemporary political theory and exploring the implication of these writings for practical politics.

  Skills

  Analytical and conceptual skills. The ability to argue cogently in oral and written communication.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  1

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI1007

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Core

  Optional Modules

  An Introduction to Modern Irish Literature (20 credits)

  ×

  An Introduction to Modern Irish Literature

  Overview

  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.

  Learning Outcomes

  On completion of this module, students will have acquired knowledge and understanding of modern literature in Irish and its cultural context.

  Skills

  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%

  Stage/Level

  1

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  CEL1006

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Language Politics and Conflict (20 credits)

  ×

  Language Politics and Conflict

  Overview

  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.

  Learning Outcomes

  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’.

  Skills

  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%

  Stage/Level

  1

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  CEL1007

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Issues in Contemporary Politics (20 credits)

  ×

  Issues in Contemporary Politics

  Overview

  To expose students to contemporary/recent and developing political issues locally, nationally and globally. The module will change year-to-year depending on these issues and staff availability. Typically each topic/issue will be taught in 3-week blocs and each bloc either team taught or given by the same colleague.
  
  Indicative list of issues (not exhaustive)
  Political Economy - trade, finance, energy, resources, politics of austerity
  War/conflict/geopolitics - current crisis in Syria, ISIS, Ukraine-Russia-EU, Israel-Palestine
  Environment/Sustainability - climate change, climate justice, biodiversity loss,
  Political Parties and Policy-making - rise of Jeremy Corbyn, Bernie Sanders, reform of party finances, decentralisation of policy-making, innovations such as participative budgeting from around the world;
  Gender, women and politics – Hilary Clinton as US President/candidate, strategies for increasing women’s representation (including quotas), the women’s movement and politics
  Social movements and political ideas – Occupy movement, religion and politics, relevance of debates on long-standing normative political ideas – social justice, democracy, recogniton etc. to these issues; role of trades unions, workplace democracy, workers rights etc.
  Migration and refugees – normative, empirical and political-policy explanations of and responses to flows of people across borders, current Syrian one for example, but also other case studies
  Leadership and citizenship- examples of political leadership and citizenship in formal electoral politics and civil society from around the world

  Learning Outcomes

  Knowledge of long-standing or emerging contemporary international political issues
  
  To be able to connect conceptual-normative ideas about politics to these contemporary issues
  
  To be above to connect the issues, themes, ideas of this module to other Level 1 PISP modules in on their Degree Programme
  
  To come to their own understanding and explanation of the political issues covered
  
  Understand the main dynamics, actors, factors to be considered in order to analytically understand and causally explain these contemporary political issues

  Skills

  Critical and Independent Thinking
  Ability to integrate conceptual and empirical information and data
  Critically analyse evidence and normative positions and appreciate different analyses of the same issue
  Summarise the main points of different issues, positions and approaches to understanding politics
  Understand complex issues, different understandings and perspectives on political issues
  Verbal and written communication of complex issues and express one’s own critical understanding of published research and other module resources
  Managing and prioritising knowledge: identify relevant and subject-specific knowledge, sources and data; manage such information in an independent manner
  Analytical Thinking: identify, understand, interpret and evaluate relevant subject-specific arguments made by others; construct independent arguments

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  1

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI1003

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  World Politics (20 credits)

  ×

  World Politics

  Overview

  The module examines the development of the international system and raises questions about how and whether this system is changing in light of processes of globalisation. International relations theories of realism, idealism and critical approaches will be introduced, as well as issues of war and conflict, global inequality, poverty, climate change, race and gender.

  Learning Outcomes

  To provide an introduction to two important sub-disciplines of Politics, International Relations and Comparative Politics, while enlarging students' knowledge of current affairs.

  Skills

  To enable students to follow world affairs intelligently and to appreciate the historical background to contemporary developments, as well as how current conflicts are related to structures of political and economic power in the world.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  1

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI1006

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Comparative Politics (20 credits)

  ×

  Comparative Politics

  Overview

  The purpose of this course is to explore key themes in British and Irish Politcs in a comparative perspective. The aim is to enable students to understand current politics by comparing Britain, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland to each other and also to other developed democracies. The course opens with two lectures that lay out the ideas behind comparison as a tool of understanding. Subsequent topics include: party systems, electoral systems, government formation, inter-party competition, intra-party competition and devolution.

  Learning Outcomes

  Students should be able to identify what the fundamental differences are between Britain and Ireland in terms of how political life is organised and how citizens think and act politically. Students should also become familiar with the fundamental elements that are shared by the two islands. Students should gain an understanding of what it is about the politics of Britain and Ireland that is unique in a comparative European context. They should also gain insight into the elements of political life on these islands that is common across our European neighbours.

  Skills

  Students will be taught how to identify fundamental political factors and processes rather than the surface details of everyday political life. They will be taught to compare rather than simply describe. In class they will be taught how to discuss the politics of a country - whether that be Northern Ireland, Britain or the Republic of Ireland - in a comparative context and so speak of fundamental differences and similarities rather than a lot of country specific nuance and detail. In their assignments they will be taught how to write and argue about Britain and Ireland using comparison rather than description as their major analytic tool.

  Coursework

  90%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  10%

  Stage/Level

  1

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI1009

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Celtic Mythology (20 credits)

  ×

  Celtic Mythology

  Overview

  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.

  Learning Outcomes

  A knowledge and understanding of the mythology and beliefs of Celtic-speaking peoples

  Skills

  Critical and analytical thinking; research; independent learning; time management.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  1

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  CEL1033

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

• Year 2

  Core Modules

  Modern Political Thought (20 credits)

  ×

  Modern Political Thought

  Overview

  This module focuses on a critical analysis of key texts and themes in the history of modern political thought. It has two aims. Firstly, by adopting a historical approach to the development of modern political thought we learn about the ideas that have shaped our own political thinking. We are typically unaware of the ways in which this history has shaped how we frame problems and our basic assumptions about how to respond to them. Adopting a historical perspective on modern political thought helps us to bring these unexamined assumptions into focus and allows us to think more creatively about how to respond to political problems. In learning about this history we are learning about ourselves
  Secondly, the course has a practical aim. Ideas are tools for responding to problems. By learning about the different arguments of these thinkers we can acquire tools to help us think about our own political problems. Some of the ideas of these thinkers are good ones, some not so good and there is often disagreement about which is which. We can learn from the mistakes of others as much as we can learn from their positive contributions.

  Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of this module, students will:
  
  - Be familiar with the central arguments of key texts in the history of modern political thought
  - Understand the main traditions of thought which have shaped contemporary political thinking
  - Be equipped with the analytical skills necessary to necessary to interpret and criticize complex arguments.

  Skills

  The aim of the module is to provide students with the necessary analytical and interpretive tools to understand complex arguments. It will provide students with an opportunity to develop communication skills (listening, oral and written), and equip students with basic intellectual skills (particularly critical thinking and analysis). Students will also learn to present their own thoughts and arguments in a logical and coherent manner and to make points in a clear and succinct manner. These are key transferable skills.

  Coursework

  90%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  10%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI2005

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Core

  Gaeilge 2 (40 credits)

  ×

  Gaeilge 2

  Overview

  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.

  Learning Outcomes

  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.

  Skills

  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%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  40

  Module Code

  CEL2101

  Teaching Period

  Full Year

  Duration

  24 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  Yes

  Core/Optional

  Core

  Studying Politics (20 credits)

  ×

  Studying Politics

  Overview

  Without understanding the methodology of research practice it is not possible to undertake political research effectively or to critically assess the work of others. Equally, without research skills it is not possible to test our assertions, assumptions, knowledge and preconceptions about the political world. Research methods are therefore crucial if we are to be able to address the important questions of ‘how do we know’ and ‘what is there to know’, which are critical in all fields of political studies. Consequently, this module has four aims. Firstly, to introduce students to the political research environment, incorporating both the elements and processes that underpin inquiry. Secondly, the module seeks to examine different methodologies and techniques to enable the undertaking of both original and critical research. Thirdly, to encourage candidates to develop a critical appreciation of data including both content and use. Fourthly, to promote a general awareness and working knowledge not only of the complexities of political research but also of the variety of environments in which research takes place.

  Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
  
  • Describe the relationship between the researchers of, the actors in and the environment determining political and social processes.
  • Develop communication skills through computer lab participation and writing for coursework.
  • Identify both the strengths and weaknesses of different research techniques.
  • Pursue intellectual questions on the basis of interpretation and analysis of data in a rigorous and academic manner by employing analytical skills and critical thinking.
  • Critically assess the collection of data and understand its use as a tool for understanding political processes.
  • Evaluate and discriminate between qualitative and quantitative data analyses and, in doing so, demonstrate a willingness to implement good practice.
  • Interpret the research of others and appreciate the problems involved in both collection and interpretation of data.
  • Compare, contrast and choose between different quantitative research methods and justify the choice through an awareness and working knowledge of quantitative methodology.
  • Implement basic intellectual skills that include data understanding, analysis, numeracy, and problem solving.
  • Present research findings in an appropriate manner and communicate finding to others in a clear and concise manner in written form.

  Skills

  To think analytically and methodologically, to apply quantitative analysis techniques using specialised computer software, and to interpret and communicate results of statistical analyses.

  Coursework

  90%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  10%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI2043

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Core

  Optional Modules

  Identity Politics in Diverse Societies (20 credits)

  ×

  Identity Politics in Diverse Societies

  Overview

  Liberal values in Europe, as elsewhere, are coming under serious threat, driven by identity politics designed to exploit societal divisions. The historical link between liberalism and diversity in Europe, and the extent to which one can negotiate and accommodate, if not facilitate the other, holds the key to sustainable, coherent and peaceful societies. The module provides an overview and critical analysis of minority protection offering engagement with issues underpinning national politics, law and societal processes in Europe. Using a critical approach to contemporary politics, this module provides:
  
  - a historical analysis of state formation and nation building in Europe with context of religious wars and political revolutions, including the (re-)conceptualisation of basic concepts and terms such as territoriality, sovereignty, state, nation and citizenship;
  
  - reassesses primordial views on ethnicity/nationality and language & religious identities and provides a sociologically informed political lens to reconcile the requirements for political unity, obligations to international law and ensure social cohesion for the culturally diverse society;
  
  - examines the liberal and national ideological framings of equality protection in liberal-democratic regimes and the number of mechanisms from voting rights to proportional representation in state bodies, forms of cultural and territorial autonomy and federalism to engage with the challenges of the ongoing re-nationalisation in all parts of Europe.
  
  This module will help students interested in European politics, human and minority rights, governance and nationalism, and politics of diverse societies to understand the origins of and anticipate political developments of their increasingly diverse societies.

  Learning Outcomes

  - Place issues of governance in diverse societies in the context of domestic and European political and legal obligations to ensure equality of all citizens;
  
  - Contrast the differential impact nation-state building had in different parts of Europe on diverse resident populations and reflect on the role of European integration on political process;
  
  - Ascertain importance of diversity and equality as guarantee for societal stability and peace in and around Europe
  
  - Understand and be able to reflect critically on the impact accommodation and support for minorities has on the likelihood of conflict in contemporary Europe
  
  - Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in written form on issues relating to equality and diversity in contemporary Europe
  
  - Pursue intellectual questions in an academic manner, using analytical skills and critical thinking to develop transferrable skills

  Skills

  Intellectual skills
  
  - Managing & Prioritizing Knowledge: identify relevant and subject-specific knowledge, sources and data; manage such information in an independent manner
  
  - Critical & Independent Thinking: ability to think critically and construct one’s own position in relation to existing and ongoing debates in the field
  
  Professional and career development skills
  
  - Communication Skills: ability to communicate clearly with others, both orally and in writing
  
  - Teamwork: ability to work with others in a team, negotiate conflicts and recognize different ways of learning
  
  - Self-Reflexivity: ability to reflect on one’s own progress and identify and act upon ones own development needs with respect to life-long learning and career development
  
  - Time Management: ability to negotiate diverse and competing pressures; cope with stress; and achieve a work / life balance
  
  Technical and practical skills
  
  - Information Technology: demonstrate the knowledge and ability to use contemporary and relevant ICT Organizational skills
  
  - Efficient and effective work practice: demonstrate ability to work efficiently to deadlines
  
  - Clear organisation of information: show efficiency in the organisation of large amounts of complex information and the ability to identify, describe and analyse the key features of the information
  
  - Organisation and communication: demonstrate ability to use evidence to develop logical and clear argument; show aptitude for the effective use of information in a direct and appropriate way

  Coursework

  90%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  10%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI2066

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Cearta an Duine agus Nualitríocht na Gaeilge (20 credits)

  ×

  Cearta an Duine agus Nualitríocht na Gaeilge

  Overview

  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.

  Learning Outcomes

  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

  Skills

  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%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  CEL2003

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Gender, Culture, and Representation – Backwards & in Heels (20 credits)

  ×

  Gender, Culture, and Representation – Backwards & in Heels

  Overview

  This interdisciplinary module introduces students to the central ideas of gender theory and to a wide variety of representations of gender across a range of media, including theatre, performance, literature, visual art, film and television. Using key texts and cultural works students are encouraged to examine critically the representation of gender across media, and the political, legal, and ethical dimensions of gender within our culture. The module involves a critical engagement with the relationship between identity, representation and culture and explores theories concerning the social construction of the masculine and feminine body. The module engages with several key issues, including the representation of femininity and masculinity, gender in the literary and theatrical canon of Western culture, the spatiality and temporality of gender, and its intersections with issues of race/ethnicity, class, and labour. Students will be asked to think about these issues and ideas across disciplines but also within their areas of study through seminars.

  Learning Outcomes

  Having completed this module, you should:
  
  * have engaged with a variety of representations of gender, the body and sexual identities within socio-historical, theoretical and representational frameworks and across multiple forms of media,
  
  * have cultivated an understanding of the theoretical and practical movements that have shaped the construction and representation of gender, sexuality and the body in culture,
  
  * have developed a critical understanding of the relationship between representation and identity.

  Skills

  Having completed this module, you should:
  
  * have developed reflexive thinking and independent critical and analytical skills.
  
  * have developed imaginative and communicative skills based on the application of reading materials to class presentations
  
  * have developed research and writing skills

  Coursework

  60%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  40%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  AEL2001

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Adaptation as Interdisciplinary Practice (20 credits)

  ×

  Adaptation as Interdisciplinary Practice

  Overview

  This module asks students to examine the process and challenges of adapting works, either within the same medium in a different time or place, or between different media, with staff from across the school collaborating to offer students an understanding of how different media work, and how the differences between those media impact the process of adaptation. The class will also examine how adaptation plays an integral role in the process of translation. Each week students will examine several versions of a play, novel, and/or film script (or watch them), looking at originals from the Greeks forward to see how adaptors have grappled with great works of different eras and cultures in an attempt to make them more accessible to contemporary audiences, while at the same time (in most cases) attempting to preserve something of their original context. The class will also look at theoretical models of adaptation. Ultimately, students will be asked to examine the adaptation history of a single original work in an academic essay, and will try their own hand at adaptation in presenting a treatment for a work of fiction, drama, film, or any other form, adapted from a prior work.

  Learning Outcomes

  Having completed this module, you should:
  
  Understand the history of adaptation in drama and other forms.
  Be able to analyse translations and adaptations
  Be able to identify the rationale behind what is altered and what is kept.
  Become adapters on their own.

  Skills

  Research and analytical skills
  Performance skills
  Communication and speech
  Interacting with others (both in interactions between performer and director, as well as performer and audience)
  Technical proficiency

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  AEL2002

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Security and Terrorism (20 credits)

  ×

  Security and Terrorism

  Overview

  This module explores contemporary approaches to the study of security and terrorism. It will examine changes in definitions of security and terrorism, the evolution of approaches to the study of security and terrorism. Students will be familiarised with the main “threats” to state and human security; the changing nature of war and other organised violence; and areas of security policy and practice including arms control, alliance formation, peacekeeping and peacebuilding, among others. Students will also explore domestic and transnational non-state terrorism, state terrorism, and counter-terrorism policy and practice.

  Learning Outcomes

  On completion of the course students will:
  • Be familiar with the main theories and approaches to the study of security and terrorism; and the debates between them.
  • Understand and be able to discuss the relative merits of different theoretical approaches to security issues.
  • Be able to critically evaluate international policy and practice in key areas of security policy and counter-terrorism.
  • Be able to communicate ideas to others in a clear and concise manner, both orally and in written form;
  • Be able to pursue intellectual questions in a rigorous and academic manner, employing analytical skills and critical thinking.

  Skills

  Managing & Prioritizing Knowledge: identify relevant and subject-specific knowledge, sources and data; manage such information in an independent manner.
  • Analytical Thinking: identify, understand, interpret and evaluate relevant subject-specific arguments made by others; construct independent arguments.
  • Critical & Independent Thinking: ability to think critically and construct one’s own position in relation to existing and ongoing debates in the field.
  
  Communication Skills, including oral and written communication.
  • Time-Management
  • Information Technology skills;
  • Organisation and communication skills;
  • Enterprise Thinking.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI2055

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Scottish Gaelic Language 1 (20 credits)

  ×

  Scottish Gaelic Language 1

  Overview

  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.

  Learning Outcomes

  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.

  Skills

  Linguistic analysis and comparison; translation; communication; IT; independent learning; time management.

  Coursework

  50%

  Examination

  50%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  CEL2017

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Irish Politics (20 credits)

  ×

  Irish Politics

  Overview

  An examination of the Politics of Ireland (North and South) since 1920.

  Learning Outcomes

  To provide an understanding of the political systems of both parts of Ireland and to understand Northern Ireland as an example of a deeply divided society.

  Skills

  The ability to think analytically, communicate ideas with peers, reproduce ideas in an exam setting, and construct cogent essays.

  Coursework

  90%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  10%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI2013

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  American Politics (20 credits)

  ×

  American Politics

  Overview

  This survey course introduces students to the American political system, current debates on democracy in America and its role in the world. The first section of the module, examines the basic institutions of the American political system, its origins, development and evolving dynamics. Particular emphasis is placed on the US Constitution, federalism and the system of checks and balances, as well as the three branches of government: the Presidency, Congress and the Supreme Court. The second section constitutes a more normative engagement with issues relating to the contemporary nature of American democracy, examining in particular controversies surrounding the electoral process and the role of socioeconomic inequality and race in shaping political outcomes.

  Learning Outcomes

  Students will acquire an understanding of the basic components of the American political system and its historical and ideational origins. Students will be conversant with contemporary debates on the nature of democracy and its socio-economic context in America.

  Skills

  Ability to think conceptually and pursue rigorous, systematic inquiry into some aspect(s) of American Politics. Ability to construct a lucid argument, theoretically and empirically informed, in examination paper form, and to present oral arguments in a concise manner.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI2018

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  International Organisations (20 credits)

  ×

  International Organisations

  Overview

  This module on International Organizations offers an introduction into the multilateral global security architecture. The core focus of the module is collective security. The module IO thus will deal with international law, collective security, regimes in international security and International security organizations. The United Nations system forms the core of the study. Peacekeeping, peace enforcement, peace building and the ‘outsourcing’ of core collective security tasks to regional players will dominate the sessions of the module. Core military interventions by international organizations will be analyzed. The module thus will deal with military interventions by the UN, NATO, CIS/CSTO, EU and core security and mediation tasks by the CIS, SCO and OSCE. The new policy agenda of energy security will be tackled by studying resource control: The NPT regime, the IAEA and oil and gas regimes thus will be scrutinized at the end of the semester. The major aim of the module is to outline the ‘institutionalized’ world order of today – with its hierarchies, cleavages and contradictions. The module is wedded to a strategic studies approach to IR.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI2056

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

• Year 3

  Core Modules

  Gaeilge 3 (40 credits)

  ×

  Gaeilge 3

  Overview

  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).

  Learning Outcomes

  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.

  Skills

  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%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  40

  Module Code

  CEL3101

  Teaching Period

  Full Year

  Duration

  24 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  Yes

  Core/Optional

  Core

  Optional Modules

  Security and Technology (20 credits)

  ×

  Security and Technology

  Overview

  Security politics has long been associated with the development, use and regulation of new technologies, from the ‘nuclear revolution’ to contemporary practices of cyber-security and surveillance. This module focusses on the inter-relationships of technology and security, and seeks to develop advanced understanding of the complexities of the “technopolitics” of security. This includes both novel technologies and the mundane materialities of security (fences, walls, guns). It introduces students to the role and political significance of science and technology from different theoretical perspectives, from political realism to the contemporary ‘material turn’ in critical security studies. It seeks to engage students in contemporary political debates and practices that entangle science and technology and security politics which may include issues such as cyber-security, UAVs/Drones, disarmament, nuclear terrorism, critical infrastructure protection, technologies of killing, biotechnology, biometrics, surveillance, border control, food security, health and medical technologies, and technologies of (military) bodies, among others. The module incorporates both theoretical perspectives (including IR/Security theory, and wider philosophy of technology and Science, Technology and Society approaches) and in depth empirical material.

  Learning Outcomes

  Upon successful completion of the module students will:
  
  - Demonstrate an awareness and understanding of different theoretical understandings of science and technology in security politics and practice.
  - Be able to discuss in depth the politics of several key security technologies.
  - Critically engage in debates on key developments in the politics of security that relate to emerging technologies and technologically mediated forms of security practice.
  - Be able to reflect upon the ethical and political implications of technological developments and practices in relation to security.
  - Pursue independent, creative and critical thinking through both written work and group discussions.

  Skills

  Intellectual skills
  • Managing & Prioritizing Knowledge: identify relevant and subject-specific knowledge, sources and data; manage such information in an independent manner
  • Analytical Thinking: identify, understand, interpret and evaluate relevant subject-specific arguments made by others; construct independent arguments
  • Critical & Independent Thinking: ability to think critically and construct one’s own position in relation to existing and ongoing debates in the field
  
  Professional and career development skills
  • Communication Skills: ability to communicate clearly with others, both orally and in writing
  • Teamwork: ability to work with others in a team, negotiate conflicts and recognize different ways of learning
  • Diversity: ability to acknowledge and be sensitive to the range of cultural differences present in the learning environment
  • Self-Reflexivity: ability to reflect on one’s own progress and identify and act upon ones own development needs with respect to life-long learning and career development
  • Time Management: ability to negotiate diverse and competing pressures; cope with stress; and achieve a work / life balance
  
  Organizational skills
  • Efficient and effective work practice: demonstrate ability to work efficiently to deadlines
  • Clear organisation of information: show efficiency in the organisation of large amounts of complex information and the ability to identify, describe and analyse the key features of the information
  • Organisation and communication: demonstrate ability to use evidence to develop logical and clear arguments; show aptitude for the effective use of information in a direct and appropriate way
  • Enterprising thinking: Demonstrate ability to think and argue in novel and enterprising ways, to display originality of thought and argument and the ability to clearly support arguments in innovative ways

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI3073

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Modern Irish Poetry (20 credits)

  ×

  Modern Irish Poetry

  Overview

  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.

  Learning Outcomes

  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.

  Skills

  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%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  CEL3026

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Asylum and Migration in Global Politics (20 credits)

  ×

  Asylum and Migration in Global Politics

  Overview

  down many routes for asylum seekers, turning attention to security and border control concerns. Bilateral and multi-lateral relations are imbued with concerns about controlling the movement of people as states work with and respond not only to each other, but to non-governmental and international organizations. These dynamics are imbued with global power relations, with changing notions of security and with age-old questions of sovereignty, citizenship, and belonging. The dominant policy direction favours solutions that emphasize either preventative protection or repatriation, both practices of containment and conflict resolution and management. We are witnessing a decline in the traditional category of refugees, but a rise in the number of internally displaced persons. Economic deprivation and poverty continues to pair with conflict to drive migration that muddies the waters between “forced” and “voluntary” categories. Increasing incidents of human smuggling and human trafficking, and a failure in many circles to effectively distinguish between the two, are demanding new policy innovations that are linking international criminal law to diplomatic relations – and migrants are caught in the middle. Finally, emerging categories such as “environmental refugees” are challenging the current refugee regime, which remains rooted in the 1951 Convention.
  
  This module will examine these changes in the fields of refugee and migration studies, asking questions that assess not only shifting policy and practices but also the impacts these shifts have on the lived lives of migrants themselves. We will engage these questions and the issues they raise through thoughtful and critical dialogue. We will focus on the politics of migration and citizenship as dynamic practices rather than pre-determined institutions, and ask what roles the various structures and frameworks of contemporary International Relations play in these politics. Importantly, we will also ask what role individuals play, and examine the politics of voice and agency in both shaping, contesting and resisting state practices. To tackle these issues, we will engage with both policy and theoretical literatures and illustrate conceptual and philosophical arguments through extensive use of specific case studies from different regions of the world. We will emphasize contemporary and emerging issues, but also look at the historical contexts and questions that shape the politics of migration and citizenship as they exist today.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI3041

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Arms Control (20 credits)

  ×

  Arms Control

  Overview

  The module will introduce the student to arms control as a part of national security policy and strategy. The focus of the module is mainly on strategic arms control of the 20th Century and early 21st Century. The module focus is on nuclear arms control and the structures of world order. The Nuclear Non Proliferation regime will be the basis for the analysis of the arms limitation and arms reduction treaties of the 1970s to 2000s. The module will thus deal with SALT I, SALT II, with START, New START and the INF Treaty. The MBFR negotiations and CFE treaty will offer a bridge to the wider spectrum of arms control. Humanitarian arms control, biological and chemical arms control regimes and control or prohibition of space based weapons will also feature. The module will offer a classic and a critical introduction into arms control theory.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI3039

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Global Pol. Econ. of Energy (20 credits)

  ×

  Global Pol. Econ. of Energy

  Overview

  This module examines the role of natural resources in modern societies, with a particular focus on energy resources and how they have shaped international politics and economics. Specific topics include: the transition from coal to oil and the emerging role of the multinational energy corporations in international politics; the link between natural resources and development in the Global South; the nature and consequences of the ‘resource curse’; the geo-strategic implications of contestation over natural resources; a range of case studies, which may include the following: post-colonial petro-states in the Gulf of Guinea; the politics of land in Africa; the global impact of the US shale revolution; energy and authoritarianism in Russia and Venezuela; and the future of fossil fuels and the capitalist world order.

  Learning Outcomes

  By the end of this module, students will be able to identify key developments in the modern era of resource politics, and how domestic and international contestation over natural resources such as oil, gas, minerals and land have shaped global economic and political developments. Students will also be able to relate a range of topics and developments in global resource politics to other aspects of international politics and economics, including the emergence of the post-colonial world and the rising powers of the Global South, socio-economic development, international conflict and environmental sustainability.

  Skills

  Thinking conceptually and pursuing rigorous, systematic inquiry into various aspects of the political economy of natural resources in a global context; constructing lucid arguments that are theoretically and empirically informed, in both critical analysis and essay forms; presenting concise and clearly articulated oral arguments in a group setting. Intellectual skills development, including managing and prioritising knowledge, analytical thinking and critical and independent thinking. Professional and career development skills, including communication skills, self-reflexivity and time management. Organisational skills, including efficient and effective work practice, clear organisation of information, communication and enterprising thinking.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI3012

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  An Béal Beo (20 credits)

  ×

  An Béal Beo

  Overview

  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.

  Learning Outcomes

  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

  Skills

  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%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  CEL3011

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Gairmeacha le Gaeilge (20 credits)

  ×

  Gairmeacha le Gaeilge

  Overview

  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%).

  Learning Outcomes

  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.

  Skills

  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%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  CEL3010

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Party Politics in the 21st Century (20 credits)

  ×

  Party Politics in the 21st Century

  Overview

  Political parties define how we see and understand politics. Schattschneider (1942) wrote that ‘democracy is unthinkable save in terms of parties’. But does this remain the case? Political parties are central actors, mediating voter’s preferences and policy outcomes. At the same time, many parties in Western democracies have experienced partisan dealignment, declining membership, and increased competition from protest and populist actors. This module aims to explore the challenges facing political parties in the twenty-first century. How has the political party evolved? Has the role of political parties been diminished and if so, what might fill this gap? Have parties been supplanted by personalities? How do parties respond to the media/the social media aga? Topics may vary from year to year, allowing flexibility to capture key events and elections, but may include: the personalisation of party politics; parties in the age of climate emergency; populism and nationalism; social media and the party. The course emphasises both theory and practice, with a weekly qualitative analysis exercise relevant to the week’s topic.

  Learning Outcomes

  On completion of this module students will;
  
  Have a critical understanding of party politics and the role parties play in contemporary political life.
  Be able to identify and critically assess the key theories of party politics.
  Have demonstrated their understanding of one or more political parties through oral and written contributions.
  Have strengthened their first-hand experience in carrying out qualitative research through seminar exercises and assessments.

  Skills

  On completion of this module students will;
  
  Have a critical understanding of party politics and the role parties play in contemporary political life.
  Be able to identify and critically assess the key theories of party politics.
  Have demonstrated their understanding of one or more political parties through oral and written contributions.
  Have strengthened their first-hand experience in carrying out qualitative research through seminar exercises and assessments.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI3102

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  The Placement (20 credits)

  ×

  The Placement

  Overview

  This Module offers students the opportunity to undertake a work placement for a total of 1.5 days per week for 12 weeks (18 days total) in a host organisation. Assessment will be via a portfolio, a research case study and an applied policy brief thus allowing students to use their workplace project more laterally in the achievement of Module requirements.

  Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of this module, students will have significantly developed their administrative knowledge and capacity; acquired a clear understanding of the work, organisation and operation of the host institution; produced a body of work that is both academically sound and, ideally, of practical utility for the host institution; and developed and acquired a range of skills including working within a team setting and complying with the norms and ethical standards of a professional working environment. Students will also have learned to locate their applied experience with academic interests and concerns.

  Skills

  This module will assist in developing students’ skills in a number of important areas. These include: Intellectual skills * Managing & Prioritizing Knowledge * Analytical Thinking * Critical & Independent Thinking Professional and career development skills * Communication Skills * Teamwork * Diversity * Self-Reflexivity * Time Management Technical and practical skills * Information Technology * Regulations and standards Organizational skills * Efficient and effective work practice * Clear organisation of information * Organisation and communication * Enterprising thinking

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI3089

  Teaching Period

  Both

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Challenges to contemporary party politics (20 credits)

  ×

  Challenges to contemporary party politics

  Overview

  This module focuses on two themes: party system change and the contemporary challenges that affect political parties. Why and how do new parties emerge? Why do old parties survive crises and new party challenges? Who joins political parties and how can we explain the decline in party membership? How can parties and their representatives be more representative of society at large? Should parties be funded through our taxes or private money? Do political parties make a difference in terms of public policy? These are some of the questions that will be addressed in this module.
  The module is comparative in nature, with a focus on European and North American countries, but discussions of other cases are welcome.
  Assessment is designed to hone the students’ presentation, writing, critical and knowledge-transfer skills: students make a presentation that is partly assessed through student peer evaluation, write a case-study report and a book review, and write a policy paper in which they advise a (fictional) political party on addressing a contemporary challenge (representation of women and minorities, party finance, or membership).
  Past students on this module have enjoyed the presentations and the advantages of peer assessment (making the presentation to the whole class, more focus on content and making a good presentation, and getting to exercise their critical skills through marking), as well as the relaxed style of the seminars and the ability to write a policy paper instead of an academic essay.

  Learning Outcomes

  Upon successful completion of the module, students will
   acquire knowledge of and engage with major debates within the literature on political parties, their interaction with other parties and their internal organisation;
   be able to identify and discuss the functions and roles played by political parties in modern representative democracies;
   be able to compare contexts of party and party system formation and forms of party organisation;
   be able to identify the challenges political parties currently face;
   use comparative qualitative and quantitative data to support arguments and evaluate relationships between variables/factors that contribute to explaining parties and party systems;
   develop and improve their skills in oral and written communication through seminar activities, presentations, essays and research papers, and feedback provided by the module convenor.

  Skills

  Intellectual skills
  
  • Managing and prioritizing knowledge: the skill of identifying relevant and subject-specific knowledge, sources and data and to manage such information in an independent manner;
  • Synthesis of information: the skill of collecting, analysing and synthesizing information from a variety of web and library sources via oral debates and written work.
  • Critical and independent thinking: the ability to think critically and to construct one’s own position/argument in relation to leading debates within the field;
  • Comparative analysis: the knowledge and use of relevant data from a range of cases to illustrate support or challenge key arguments and debates and evaluate hypotheses (the relationship between variables or factors) in the literature. Also the ability to select appropriate cases and methodology to answer research questions.
  
  Professional and career development skills
  
  • Communication skills: the ability to clearly communicate one’s position both orally and in writing;
  • Presentational and advocacy skills: the ability to present your ideas to a group of peers and sustain a convincing argument;
  • Evaluation skills: the ability to assess your peers’ work in an impartial fashion using a pre-determined set of criteria.
  
  Organizational skills
  
  • Preparatory skills: always being well prepared for tutorials (e.g. required reading)
  • Time management: effective use of study time, meeting coursework deadlines
  • Independent research: making good use of the library and the materials available

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI3067

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  National and Ethnic Minorities in European Politics (20 credits)

  ×

  National and Ethnic Minorities in European Politics

  Overview

  Often trapped between the competing logics of nation and state, minority groups in Europe have played an important role in the twentieth century's bloodiest tragedies and have been targeted in many conflicts. However, contemporary Europe offers a substantial institutional approach to put minority issues on an entirely novel footing. This course looks at the role of minority groups in Europe addressing their competing claims over political representation, economic resources and cultural rights that persist throughout the Union. The course will examine minority issues from a comparative perspective to shed light on challenges that face specifically postcommunist European societies and will address issues pertaining to recognition of minority rights in the ‘older’ EU member states.
  
  We start with the analyses of the origins of minority rights, the establishment of the European minority rights regime, and the relationship between national minorities and majorities in contemporary Europe. The module will engage with issues on European minority rights agenda moving beyond the perspective of nation-state, and will focus upon the impact of both, social processes domestically and geopolitical considerations regionally to enhance understanding of complicated relationship between the human rights and non-discrimination agendas globally. It engages literature on postcommunist Europeanisation, minority rights regime and accommodation of rights of migrants during the complex path of building European institutions. Taking its starting point in theoretical debates of post-cold War minority protection in Europe, the module is focused empirically on European cases, East and West, where tensions between groups have been identified and examined in terms of ethnic and/or national identities. By contrasting the issue relevant for national minorities throughout Europe the course will allow greater understanding of consequences going in hand with the recognition of national minority rights for European societies with growing numbers of old and new minority communities.

  Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
  • Place minority situations in a broader context of domestic and European politics
  • Contrast the differential impact European integration had on minority groups in different waves of enlargement
  • Ascertain importance of national minorities as guarantors of geopolitical stability
  • Understand and be able to discriminate the impact of new and old minorities have on likelihood of ethnic conflict in contemporary Europe
  • Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in written form contemporary situation in Europe
  • Rigorously pursue intellectual questions in an academic manner, using analytical skills and critical thinking.

  Skills

  This module will assist in developing students’ skills in a number of important areas. These include:
  
  Intellectual skills
  • Analytical Thinking: identify, understand, interpret and evaluate relevant subject-specific arguments made by others; construct independent arguments
  • Critical & Independent Thinking: ability to think critically and construct one’s own position in relation to existing and ongoing debates in the field
  Professional and career development skills
  • Communication Skills: ability to communicate clearly with others, both orally and in writing
  • Teamwork: ability to work with others in a team, negotiate conflicts and recognize different ways of learning
  • Self-Reflexivity: ability to reflect on one’s own progress and identify and act upon ones own development needs with respect to life-long learning and career development
  Organizational skills
  • Clear organisation of information: show efficiency in the organisation of large amounts of complex information and the ability to identify, describe and analyse the key features of the information
  • Organisation and communication: demonstrate ability to use evidence to develop logical and clear argument; show aptitude for the effective use of information in a direct and appropriate way

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI3059

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Language and Literature in the Gaelic World (20 credits)

  ×

  Language and Literature in the Gaelic World

  Overview

  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.

  Learning Outcomes

  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.

  Skills

  Linguistic analysis; translation; critical and analytical thinking; independent learning; time management

  Coursework

  40%

  Examination

  60%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  CEL3023

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Dissertation (Politics and International Studies) (40 credits)

  ×

  Dissertation (Politics and International Studies)

  Overview

  The dissertation is a research project that the student develops, designs and implements. There is a Dissertation Synopsis of approximately 700 words and the end product is a substantial piece of written work of 12,000 words on a topic that has been agreed between the student and his/her supervisor.

  Learning Outcomes

  By the end of the dissertation, students will be able to: (a) develop a sustained argument, test a hypothesis, and/or write an original narrative; (b) carry out research including finding appropriate sources of information for the topic in question; (c) review appropriate theories for the topic.

  Skills

  Students participate in a workshop prior to registering for the dissertation, which focuses on how to formulate a dissertation question, how to research the dissertation and how to organise and write the dissertation. Further consultation and skills development with individual advisors. A further workshop is held at the start of the second semester. Students will work closely with an individual supervisor throughout the research, drafting and writing of their dissertation. The skill required for ongoing research and writing of a dissertation are acquired and monitored through liason with the supervisor.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  40

  Module Code

  PAI3099

  Teaching Period

  Full Year

  Duration

  24 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Gender and Politics (20 credits)

  ×

  Gender and Politics

  Overview

  This module introduces students to the centrality of gender and sexuality in shaping political dynamics at the local, national and global level. It approaches the topic from three perspectives - feminist political thought; strategies for political mobilization and change; and the relevance of gender in international affairs. The module aims to offer an introduction to the contribution of feminist intersectional scholarship in challenging understandings of politics and international relations as gender-neutral and draws attention to the, often neglected, experiences, agency and political claims of gender minorities. It considers key contemporary issues such as intersectionality and feminist politics, sexuality and reproductive justice; social movements and anti-gender politics; war, peace and security; climate change and the politics of global crises.
  Lectures will chart the development of feminism in its diverse ideological strands and ‘waves’.
  Students will have the opportunity to discuss theoretical perspectives and empirical examples as entry points to the gendered complexities of global politics.

  Learning Outcomes

  To provide a political perspective on gender; to clarify the diversity of feminist thought; to analyse and explain the causes of women's inequality in the public and private realms; and to provide an understanding of the inequalities confronting women.

  Skills

  The ability to comprehend the politics of sex and gender in an historical and theoretical framework; to develop a political perspective on gender; to debate positions; to engage in small group activity; to improve oral presentation and essay-writing skills.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI3008

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Internship (40 credits)

  ×

  Internship

  Overview

  This Module offers students the opportunity to undertake a work placement for a total of 3 days per week for 12 weeks (36 days total) in a host organisation. Assessment will be via a portfolio, a research case study and an applied policy brief thus allowing students to use their workplace project more laterally in the achievement of Module requirements.

  Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of this module, students will have significantly developed their administrative knowledge and capacity; acquired a clear understanding of the work, organisation and operation of the host institution; produced a body of work that is both academically sound and, ideally, of practical utility for the host institution; and developed and acquired a range of skills including working within a team setting and complying with the norms and ethical standards of a professional working environment. Students will also have learned to locate their applied experience with academic interests and concerns.

  Skills

  This module will assist in developing students’ skills in a number of important areas. These include: Intellectual skills * Managing & Prioritizing Knowledge * Analytical Thinking * Critical & Independent Thinking Professional and career development skills * Communication Skills * Teamwork * Diversity * Self-Reflexivity * Time Management Technical and practical skills * Information Technology * Regulations and standards

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  40

  Module Code

  PAI3097

  Teaching Period

  Both

  Duration

  24 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Earth, Energy, Ethics and Economy: The Politics of Unsustainability (20 credits)

  ×

  Earth, Energy, Ethics and Economy: The Politics of Unsustainability

  Overview

  The continuing problematic relationship between key dynamics of modern economic and social systems and the non-human world is one of the most pressing issues of the 21st century and will continue shape the political agenda both nationally and globally. This module will examine some of the key debates of the politics of sustainable development, including: green ethical and political theory; the role of the environment and nature in political theorising; the economic and policy alternatives to unsustainable development and the normative underpinnings of a sustainable society.

  Learning Outcomes

  Upon completion of this module students will: Have a firm understanding of the key ethical, political and economic dimensions of green theory Be able to identify and understand the varieties of schools of thinking with green theory. Have a firm understanding of sustainable development; Be able to relate green theory to the politics of sustainable development; Be able to relate green political theory to other schools of thought within contemporary political theory; Be able to articulate and defend their own understandings of both green political theory and sustainable development; Be able to relate the empirical and scientific arguments and debates about sustainable development to normative theorising about sustainable development; Be able to defend and explain interdisciplinary methodological approaches to the study of sustainable development

  Skills

  Knowledge of the main issues, thinkers, schools of thought and debates within green political and ethical theory; knowledge of the political, economic and ethical dimensions of debates about sustainable development; ability for independent research and study; critical, analytical and independent thinking; presenting informed arguments in class; critical independent and reasoned judgement and assessment and appreciation of the arguments of others; awareness and appreciation of the complexities and nuances of different normative positions; relating the issues, thinkers and schools of thought covered in this module to other modules that students have done in Politics or other pathways.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI3026

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  European Cultural Identities (20 credits)

  ×

  European Cultural Identities

  Overview

  An examination of the range of concepts related to the notion of identity in modern and contemporary Europe. The module offers an interdisciplinary survey of the construction of identity in localities, regions, and states of Western Europe, with a particular emphasis on the role of identity in cultural integration and diversity

  Learning Outcomes

  To introduce students to the notion of identity and the various factors (linguistic, ethnic, national, social, historical) which have contributed to the identity of western Europeans.

  Skills

  Development of critical and analytical skills. Emphasis on comparative methodology and the ability to synthesise knowledge in both written and oral form in a cross-national (European) context.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI3027

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Political Parties and Elections in Northern Ireland (20 credits)

  ×

  Political Parties and Elections in Northern Ireland

  Overview

  This module analyses political parties and elections in Northern Ireland. The module is motivated by the following simple question: What drives citizens’ party choice in Northern Ireland elections. The module situates the Northern Ireland case in the context of the international literature on political and electoral institutions. Specifically, given the consociational institutional context of Northern Ireland, what expectations should we have of how citizens choose parties at election time? The module assesses the relative importance of ‘conflict’ and ‘non conflict issues’ in determining voting behaviour.
  The following is an indicative description of the seminars
  
  1. Introduction
  2. The Institutional Context: Consocationalism
  3. Social Bases of Voting: Religion versus other effects
  4. Ideological Bases of Voting: Ethno-national ideology versus other ideological effects (economic left-right, liberal-conservative, pro-EU anti EU)
  5. Psychological identification: Positive Affective attachment versus negative identification
  6. Group representation: Tribune versus Catch-All effects
  7. Holding parties responsible for governing performance
  8. Parties from the South and the East: What would happen if...?
  9. Implications for other deeply divided places and consociational contexts
  
  Note that there will be an element of quantitative statistical analysis in this module. Students should be prepared for this.

  Learning Outcomes

  Understanding of the nature of party competition and electoral choice in Northern Ireland

  Skills

  Intellectual skills
  Understanding theoretical interpretations of political choice and understanding how theories are empiricallly tested
  
  
  Professional and career development skills
  
  Participation in seminars and knowledge of methodological matters
  
  Organizational skills
  
  Assignment completion

  Coursework

  90%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  10%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI3058

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  The Far Right in Western Europe and North America (20 credits)

  ×

  The Far Right in Western Europe and North America

  Overview

  Right-wing extremist parties have experienced success in elections in a number of countries in Western Europe over the last two or three decades. This phenomenon has attracted widespread attention, both in the media and in academic circles, sparking a number of frequently asked questions: why have these parties suddenly become electorally successful? What exactly do they stand for? What kind of people vote for them? Why do people vote for them? Why have they experienced more success in some countries than in others? Should we be worried about their rise? And what can we, or mainstream political parties, do to counter their rise?
  
  This module aims to examine all these questions. It begins by introducing students to the theoretical perspectives and key bodies of literature on the nature of right wing extremism in contemporary Europe, and it explores the complex conceptual, analytical and terminological debates surrounding this subject of enquiry. It places particular emphasis on the politics of the far right in France, Germany and the United Kingdom after 1945. It engages in empirical investigations into the ideology and the electoral base of different right-wing extremist parties across Western Europe and, in so doing, it also examines the question of why some right-wing extremist parties have been electorally more successful than others. It finishes by exploring the impact that right-wing extremist parties have had on public debate, policy-making and party competition over the last 30 years and by considering how mainstream parties have attempted to counter the rise and growing influence of the parties of the extreme right.

  Learning Outcomes

  Students will acquire knowledge of and engage with major debates within the literature on the far right. Students will be in a position to apply definitions and classifications of right-wing extremism to case studies so as to compare and contrast the ideologies right-wing extremist parties across Western Europe. Students will be able to identify and assess the reasons that explain why some right-wing extremist parties have been electorally more successful than others and be able assess the impact of right-wing extremism on public debate, policy-making and party competition across Western Europe and relate the academic study of right-wing extremism to questions of public and political concern.

  Skills

  Intellectual skills
  
  • Critical and independent thinking: the ability to think critically and to construct one’s own position/argument in relation to leading debates within the field
  • Synthesis of information: the skill of collecting, analyzing and synthesizing information from a variety of web and library sources via oral debates and written work.
  • Case study analysis: the knowledge and use of relevant case studies to illustrate, to support or to challenge key arguments and debates.
  
  
  Professional and career development skills
  
  • Communication skills: the ability to clearly communicate one’s position both orally and in writing.
  • Advocacy skills: the ability to present and sustain a convincing argument.
  
  Organizational skills
  
  • Preparatory skills: always being well prepared for tutorials (e.g. required reading)
  • Time management: effective use of study time, meeting coursework deadlines
  • Independent research: making good use of the library and the materials available

  Coursework

  40%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  60%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI3056

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Politics of the Global Economy (20 credits)

  ×

  Politics of the Global Economy

  Overview

  This module examines how politics conceived as relations between governments and with and between various socio-economic interests and groups shapes the global economy and the power relations it represents. Various issues addressed in the module include: how to think about power and authority in the global economy; contrasting national models of capitalism; the United States as a global economic hegemon in the post 9/11 era; the political economy of the rise of BRIC; the Doha Round of trade talks; Credit Crunch (causes, implications and responses); the geo-politics of currency rivalry; the global governance of oil; and a new global economic order to replace the old order?

  Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of this module, students will:
  
  Students will understand the importance of politics and the role of power in the global economy.
  
  Students will be able to debate a range of contemporary global economic issues with reference to the relevant academic literature.
  
  Students will have an appreciation and understanding of some of the key policy issues to be faced in the management of the global economy, the theoretical and normative debates surrounding them and the trade offs they entail.
  
  Students will be able to communicate ideas concisely and coherently in written and oral form.
  
  Students will be able to pursue intellectual questions in a rigorous and academic manner, based on analytical and critical thinking.

  Skills

  Students will be able to communicate ideas to others in coherent and concise, written and oral form;
  
  Students will be able to think analytically, critically and logically about a range of important contemporary social issues.
  
  Students will have the capacity to identify many of the key causes, strategies and motivations of contemporary global economic trends and developments.

  Coursework

  90%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  10%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI3063

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Contemporary Political Philosophy (20 credits)

  ×

  Contemporary Political Philosophy

  Overview

  This module examines problems in contemporary normative political philosophy. Topics may vary from year to year, but will typically include questions about the interpretation of values such as freedom, equality, and welfare, principles of distributive justice, equal respect and social recognition, pluralism, toleration, and democracy.

  Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of this module, students will:
  -be in a position to think critically about the normative aspects of political life,
  -understand and be able to construct normative arguments about moral and political problems.
  -be able to structure logical arguments involving abstract ideas in both discussion and written work.

  Skills

  Note-taking both at lectures and during private study of key texts; ability to structure tightly knit arguments concerning abstract ideas in both oral and written form; debating and other oral communication skills; teamwork in small groups; role play.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI3025

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional