Global Studies Seminar – Ireland

INTR 202 GLOBAL STUDIES SEMINAR / SPRING 2026

APPLY HERE:  Application for Course/Study Abroad Trip
Application Due Date is November 23, 2025
Accepted students will be notified by December 1, 2025.

What do I need to do to apply?  
– Fill in the online application
– Provide a faculty recommendation
– Attend an interview.

Interviews will be on a rolling basis, so submit your application soon!

How much is the cost of the study abroad trip?
The total cost for each student is $350.  The college is subsidizing the actual cost to defray possible student financial hardships.

Payment Deadlines:
$200 Deposit Due December 12, 2025
$150 Balance Due January 12, 2026

Be sure to bring pocket money on the trip for a few meals not covered by the program, incidentals, and souvenirs.

THE STUDY ABROAD TRIP

Ireland is an island in northwestern Europe where vibrant traditions are preserved, and natural wonders abound. From towering seaside cliffs and serene lakes, to splashing waterfalls and iconic green fields, this is an island steeped in legends and lore. Experience the marks of history and the warmth of Irish culture firsthand on this study abroad tour.

Students will stay at the Institute of Study Abroad Ireland in County Donegal. Morning lectures pair with afternoon visits to Neolithic ruins, medieval castles, and historically significant cities and sites connected to Ireland’s fascinating history. Cultural activities include Irish traditional storytelling, music, and poetry; an indigenous art class; and participating in a local St Patrick’s Day parade.

THE COURSE:
INTR 202 Global Studies Seminar will focus on contemporary issues related to the history, literature, language, and culture of Ireland. In addition, business, political, environmental and migration issues will be explored. Course includes an 8-night study abroad trip to Ireland (March 14 – 22, 2026), for an additional fee.

The course will be taught by Professors Katherine DiMarca and Pelin Kadercan. We’ll meet once a week on the Brockton campus (Tuesdays 12:30 – 1:45 PM) with additional material online.

Ireland’s history offers a rich and complex lens through which to examine immigration as a contemporary and relevant universal theme. It fosters a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of people and cultures around the world.

Students will analyze the factors that led to the Great Famine and compare and contrast the experiences of Irish immigrants in the 19th century with those of contemporary immigrants seeking a better life in the United States at the present. The 1600s Partition, civil rights campaigns in USA and Ireland, and Northern Ireland peace process will be explored.

We’ll also dive into Ireland’s cultural expressions in literature, art, music and film to appreciate these art forms and understand how they reflect ideas, beliefs, and issues central to Ireland and its people.

If you have specific questions regarding the Ireland Global Studies Seminar and/or the Ireland study abroad trip, email Professor Kate DiMarca at kdimarca@massasoit.mass.edu or Professor Pelin Kadercan at pkadercan@massasoit.mass.edu.

View our Global Learning Certificate

Photography courtesy of Katherine DiMarca