Early and Modern Irish Trinity College Dublin

Overview

The Early and Modern Irish programme at Trinity College Dublin offers a comprehensive exploration of the Irish language and its literature spanning over fifteen centuries. Students engage with the linguistic development of the tongue from its earliest recorded forms in the fifth century through to the vibrant modern language spoken today. This degree provides a unique academic journey through the sagas, law texts, and contemporary poetry that define Irish identity.

Why Early and Modern Irish at Trinity College Dublin?

The Department of Irish at Trinity College Dublin is home to world-renowned experts who provide a supportive and intimate learning environment. With small class sizes, students benefit from direct access to leading scholars and a friendly, community-focused atmosphere. The university’s location in the heart of Dublin allows students to engage with a "mini-Gaeltacht" experience, supported by an active student society and dedicated Irish-language residential schemes. Furthermore, the university holds prestigious manuscript collections, including medieval texts that students learn to read in their original form.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: EUR 22580 per year
• European fee: EUR 3181 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to transition students from foundational language skills to advanced palaeography and literary criticism. Modules may include:

• Old Irish
• Modern Irish
• Scottish Gaelic
• Classical Irish
• Palaeography
• Celtic Origins
• Social History of Irish
• Oral Literature
• Modern Literature

In the final years, students undertake independent research and a minor dissertation, focusing on specific areas of interest such as folklore, drama, or medieval law texts.

Careers with Early and Modern Irish

Graduates of this programme possess highly developed analytical and linguistic skills, making them sought after in various professional sectors. Many alumni pursue careers in Irish-language media, including journalism, television, radio, and digital content creation. The rise in demand for qualified linguists has also led graduates into roles as interpreters and translators within Ireland and the European Union. Other common career paths include teaching at all levels, library archiving, public service, marketing, and business. Some students choose to continue their academic journey through independent research and third-level lecturing.