Aquinas College in Grand Rapids, Michigan,established the program in 1972. Since then hundreds of students have taken advantage of this unique program, and many feel it has been the highlight of their college experience.
The college recently established Irish Studies as an accredited curriculum. The core courses on campus at Aquinas include: "Irish History" and "Irish Literary Heritage". The study-abroad program is centered on several aspects of Ireland and the Irish people. Three core courses of four semester hours each are required of all participants. Core courses include Irish History, Irish Culture and Identity, and Irish Literary Heritage and Contemporary Social Issues in Ireland. Elective classes include the Teachers’ Aides in National Schools course, the Ireland Community Aides Internship course, and a Hiking course.
Lourdes University in Sylvania, Ohio has joined Aquinas College in this type of Irish studies offering.During the semester program, students spend time with classroom learning, travel throughout Ireland and a fall break in which other European travel is encouraged. With field trips to international hubs like Dublin and Belfast, students will be able to see firsthand how Irish traditions open themselves up to the world community. This study-abroad program is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Lourdes Students, regardless of their academic interests or their previous travel experience.