Politics and Culture of Ireland

Explore Irish history and contemporary politics

Irish history and contemporary politics present a fascinating story of conflict and connection with the United Kingdom, battles for independence, and participation in the European Union. Irish political life in the modern era was defined by the sectarian divide and terror of the ‘Troubles.’ Develop a rich understanding of the historical political development and the cultures within Northern Ireland and The Republic of Ireland. Students will stay in Dublin (capital of Ireland) and Belfast (Northern Ireland, UK), and Galway (in the beautiful western coast).

Quick Facts

  • Two capital cities: Dublin, capital of the Republic of Ireland, and Belfast, capital of Northern Ireland
  • Explore Galway and the Cliffs of Moher on the rugged western coast and the mountains of Connemara, home to picturesque Kylemore Abbey
  • Academic visits to Queens University, Irish Parliament tour by a current member of parliament, walking tour of Falls and Shankill Roads in West Belfast by former IRA and UVF members, afternoon tea at the Titanic Experience museum, and more.
  • Day trips include Newgrange (Neolithic passage tomb older than Stonehenge), Antrim Coast and Giant's Causeway, and Derry/Londonderry (flashpoint of the Troubles).

Course Information

POS/SGS/SLC 494: Politics and Culture of Ireland (General Studies: G designation)

Program dates

June 11- June 25, 2025

Program fee

This year's program fee is $6,650. The fee includes: tuition for 3 ASU credits, all housing, course-related field trips, public transportation pass, some meals, and international health insurance. The fee does not include: trans-Atlantic airfare, most meals, passport, books and personal expenses.

Eligibility 

This program is open to all students who are interested in studying the politics and culture of Ireland with at least a 2.5 GPA, 25 hours of earned credit, and who are in good standing with the university.

Application Requirements

Click the button below to get started on your application. This will generate an online application with the requirements listed below. Note: Non-ASU students should consult these instructions before applying.

Apply by March 1st, 2025

Apply here 

Meet the Instructors

Accommodations

Students will stay in shared accommodations for the duration of the program. In Dublin, students will be housed in apartment-style hotels with two or more persons per bedroom. In Belfast, students will stay in shared hotel rooms.

Galway

Nestled on the scenic western coast of Ireland, Galway captivates visitors with its unique blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. This charming city, often referred to as the "Cultural Heart of Ireland," boasts a lively arts scene, showcased in its numerous theaters, galleries, and street performances. With its proximity to the breathtaking landscapes of Connemara and the Cliffs of Moher, Galway provides an ideal backdrop for an unforgettable academic and cultural experience.

Dublin

Since its founding in the Middle Ages by Viking raiders, Dublin has played a major role in Ireland's turbulent history. Dublin is today the center of a lively music scene, offering everything from traditional Irish music to rock bands like U2. Dublin Castle, St. Patrick's Cathedral and Christ Church Cathedral, and the Guinness Factory are some of the landmarks to visit during our stay in Dublin.

Belfast

Belfast was a great Victorian success story, an industrial boomtown whose prosperity was built on trade, especially linen and shipbuilding. Famously (or infamously), the Titanic was built here, giving Belfast, for a time, the nickname "Titanic Town."   Today its population is nearly 300,000, tourist numbers have increased, and this dramatically transformed city is enjoying an unparalleled renaissance.  This is all a welcome change from the period when news about Belfast meant reports about "the Troubles." Since the 1994 ceasefire, Northern Ireland's capital city has benefited from major hotel investment, gentrified quaysides (or strands), a sophisticated new performing arts center, and major initiatives to boost tourism. (Source: Fodor's)