International Students Irish Language Summer Course 2025
Objective: |
To provide the students with an introduction to the Irish language in an authentic Irish-speaking setting, drawing on the expertise of our highly experienced teaching staff. The courses are aligned with the Common European Framework for Languages, and will be offered concurrently at A1, A2, B1 and B2 level depending on the ability and prior knowledge of the students. These courses are based at the University’s Irish Language Centre (Áras Mháirtín Uí Chadhain), An Cheathrú Rua in the heart of Connemara. Apart from being a region of great beauty, Connemara is a major Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking district) and has a rich folk tradition. The village of An Cheathrú Rua provides an ideal location for learning Irish. |
Course Content:
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Beginners’ Course (A1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages): Designed for those with no previous knowledge of Irish, this three-week intensive course provides a basic knowledge of spoken Irish and a general introduction to Irish linguistic culture. Elementary Course (A2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages): This is suitable for those with some knowledge of the spoken language. It aims to help participants express themselves at an improved level of fluency. Intermediate Course (B1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages): The course is offered to students who have a general knowledge of Irish-language structures and a good vocabulary. It aims to help participants become fluent and communicate more effectively in the spoken dialect of Connemara Irish. Upper-Intermediate Course (B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages): The course is offered to students who have a good command of the language. This course will help students engage in a wide variety of situations, express themselves confidently, and understand both everyday and more complex language, allowing for meaningful interaction and bridging the gap between basic communication skills and proficiency. |
Course Delivery: |
Each course will include:
Excursions and visits are arranged to several Irish-speaking locations to experience language and culture in their natural environment. Towns and villages that are visited include Ros Muc and An Spidéal, with its local specialised crafts and a day trip to one of the Aran Islands. A visit to the renowned Kylemore Abbey and Clifden town is also arranged during the course. |
Course Requirements: |
Courses on offer are at beginners’, elementary, intermediate and upper-intermediate level. Students are registered for the course best suited to their standard in the language. |
Course Assessment: |
Oral, written and aural examinations |
Credits: |
6 Semester Credits/12 ECTS Credits (per course) |
Dates: |
30 Bealtaine/May - 20 Meitheamh/June 2025 |
Location: |
Acadamh na hOllscolaíochta Gaeilge, an Cheathrú Rua, Co. na Gaillimhe (Co. Galway), Ireland. H91 DH28 |
Cost: |
Tuition, assessment and accreditation: €1,150 Accommodation / Full Board : Option A: €1,300 (single room, full board), Option B: €840 (twin room, full board) Accommodation is provided with local Irish speaking families. Upon being offered a place on the course, a non-refundable deposit of €1,225 (option A) or €995 (option B) plus all relevant documentation must be submitted to secure your enrolment before the 7 March 2025. |
Scholarships: |
The Fulbright Commission offers Gaeltacht Scholarship Awards to US citizens while the Ireland Canada University Foundation offers scholarships to Canadian citizens who wish to study the Irish language. The Irish Embassy in Hungary offers a scholarship to Hungarian citizens interested in learning the Irish language. |
Visa: |
You are responsible for getting a visa (if required) to study in Ireland. Please visit Irish Naturalisation & Immigration Service to see if you require a study visa. |
Application Deadline: |
28 Feabhra/February 2025 |
Apply online: |
You can apply for the course using this online form. |
Contact details:
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Lisa Ní Fhlatharta |