Global Irish Studies Summer School 2025

The Global Irish Studies Summer School introduces students to the value of studying contemporary issues of global concern through the prism of Ireland. With a focus on people and place as guiding themes for learning, students are immersed in the history, culture and contemporary societal issues facing Ireland in a globalised world.

Students are based at Ulster University’s campus in Derry-Londonderry, which provides the ideal base for exploring the rich history and culture of the north of Ireland. Teaching takes place on campus and through walking tours of the city, museum and heritage centre visits, fields trips and overnight stays in Belfast, the North Coast and an immersive island experience along the Wild Atlantic Way in Donegal.

Issues of identity and division are explored from the 17th century Plantation of Ulster through to the impact of Brexit. Hands-on masterclasses introduce students to literature and language that is rooted in place and continues to impact on contested identities in the present. Representations of identity are explored through heritage masterclasses with leading experts in the field and visits to award-winning museums and exhibitions. Field trips provide an opportunity to explore environmental and ecological issues, as well as providing a focus on the impacts of migration within and beyond the island of Ireland. The violent history of Ireland in the 20th century forms a core part of the content. The Troubles and peace process in Northern Ireland provides a focus for the study of the impacts and legacy of urban violence, division and segregation in urban contexts globally.

The Global Irish Studies Summer School provides a taster of how a deep understanding of Irish history, culture and politics can help us look differently at issues of local concern in our home contexts, no matter where we are from in the world. The immersive nature of the summer school allows students to learn from experts in a variety of fields, and experience the north of Ireland with hands-on learning in urban and rural settings.  Students will reflect on their learning while sitting around a campfire in Donegal, exploring ancient islands, surfing, swimming and enjoying an authentic taste of Irish culture through music, dance and storytelling.

Location: Ulster University campuses in Derry/Londonderry, Belfast and Coleraine Northern Ireland | Corcreggan Mill, Dunfanaghy, Donegal, Ireland

What’s Included? 

Tuition, accommodation, meals on each day (excluding breakfast), transport and all activities.

• 5 nights Accommodation at Ulster University in Derry | 2 Nights Accommodation at Corcreggan Mill, Donegal | 1 Night Accommodation at Ulster University in Belfast | 2 Nights Accommodation at Ulster University in Coleraine
• All tuition
• All activities listed in the itinerary
• Transport to all activities and locations
• Lunches
• Dinners
• Plus lots of extras and surprises!

What’s Not Included?

Breakfast while staying on Campus. Accommodation includes self-catering kitchen space and food shops are within walking distance.

Transport to / from Ulster University before and after the summer school

Drinks, including alcoholic drinks.

Please note that information about the schedule and venues are subject to change and cancellation. More information on the programme will be posted on this page very soon. Final details of the summer school will be confirmed at least 30 days before the start date.

Fees:

The Summer School fee for 2025 is £2,875. This is inclusive of all tuition, activities, meals and accommodation listed above.

For more information and to register your interest please contact Dr Adrian Grant - a.grant@ulster.ac.uk. Once accepted onto the programme you will be sent a payment link to confirm your place.

Closing date for confirmation of place: 31 March 2025.