Irish Studies Online (Diploma) is an interdisciplinary introduction to Irish Studies, developed by the Centre for Irish Studies, University of Galway. The two-year part-time diploma course offers an excellent opportunity for those interested in Ireland, especially those without access to traditional programmes of study in this area. The purpose of the diploma is to provide a basic introduction to Irish life and culture through the disciplines of Archaeology, History, literature in English and in Irish (presented in translation), Political Science and Sociology, traditional Irish music and dance. Dr Robert Emmet Morris is a 2024 graduate of this course, and here he speaks about his background, experience, and passion for his studies.
Why Irish Studies at This Age?
My ancestors immigrated to the United States from Ireland in the 1840s and 1870s, and so my generation was far removed from its origins and heritage customs. Like other retirees, I had the time and a desire to find out more about my family’s historic roots, and I was also fuelled by the fact that I carry an Irish passport – a gift from the Irish Foreign Office when it rushed to save me from Saddam Hussein’s clutches during the Gulf War of 1990.
In a conversation my wife had with her walking partner, who is Irish by marriage, we learned of the Irish Studies Online course being offered by the Centre for Irish Studies at University of Galway. A little research online, gathering up the necessary information to submit an application, proving my bona fides (I have a master and a doctoral degree), paying the fees, and I was ready to go! After two years, several written papers, and online-only discussions, it was over in no time.
Resuming My Studies
My last formal course – a Master of Public Health – was way back in 1986, and it consisted of classroom lectures and small group discussions. The Irish Studies Online course was just what I wanted – even despite some challenges for those of us seniors new to the virtual experience!
Our course delved into early 4th century archaeology and the original inhabitants of the country; the slow migration of the Celts from the East, the influence of religions and monks preserving much of western civilisation’s foundational writings, of settler colonialism and the dream to be free.
We learned of the great writers and historical, beautiful music, and of the great politicians. We learned of the Celtic Tiger and of Ireland’s contemporary place at the forefront of the European Union economically. Of a country that was once colonised by government hailing from elsewhere, now sovereign and flourishing in the world of economics, even flexing its muscles to advocate for peace in South Africa and beyond.
Erin go Bragh, a Graduate’s Pride
People say that the university’s value is as much about what you learn from your peers as from your formal academic courses. I would take this axiom further, to one’s learning from the university itself writ large. The statements on academic freedom and the horror of Gaza put out by the university president during our course rightfully brought tears to my eyes and moved me to write to my own alma mater back in Massachusetts. Against the background of world events, I have become even more proud to be a 2024 graduate of University of Galway, at any age!
Profiles
University of Galway Irish Studies Online (Diploma) alumnus Dr Robert Emmet Morris is a retired public health professional and international affairs consultant based in Boston, USA. He has worked and lived in three continents over his professional career. In addition to receiving his University of Galway diploma last year, he received an honorary Doctorate of Public Service from the University of Maryland in 2025 at age 82.
Photo: Dr Robert Emmet Morris | Photo Credit: The Hancocks
