都柏林大学

Why is this course for me?

The study of folklore involves the study of traditional popular culture, in the past and in the present. It is primarily concerned with the history and culture of ordinary people, and with the evolution and role of tradition at vernacular level. As an academic discipline, folklore (or ethnology) involves the exploration of oral literature, social tradition, material culture, popular belief and practice, as well as traditional music and song. It explores the dynamics of communal memory and of culture as a collective phenomenon. It looks at the nature of popular tradition and the way in which such tradition is transmitted, usually outside of official channels and often across vast distances of time and space. The UCD course investigates Irish folklore as a local expression of international cultural phenomena, making the subject particularly suitable for international students.

What Will I Study

First Year
In first year, modules allow you to explore the nature and context of folklore, and provide you with a general introduction to the wide range of topics involved. You will be introduced to key texts on Irish folklore, and to some of the principal sources of information on the subject.

Modules include:

• Introduction to Folklore
• Folklore & the Imagination
• Traditional Storytelling

Second Year

• The Study of Folklore: Origins and Development
• Material Culture
• Social Life and Legend
• The Narrative Art
• Healers and Healing
• Music and Words: Identity in the Irish Context

At the end of second year, convert your degree to a BA (Honours) International by spending a year at one of our partner universities in Europe, Canada and the USA. Further information on international exchanges is available at and information on Erasmus exchanges is available from the School of Irish, Celtic Studies & Folklore.

Third Year

• Myth & Tradition
• Folk Religion and Belief
• Textual Analysis of the Irish Oral Tradition
• Calendar Custom
• Collectors of Song and Music

International Study Opportunities

There are opportunities for students to spend a year studying abroad while pursuing their BA in Irish Folklore. Possibilities include:

• Europe
• Canada
• United States

Career & Graduate Study Opportunities

A degree in Irish Folklore is of relevance to anyone interested in popular culture, tradition and society, and their interconnections. It provides an excellent basis for careers in:

• Heritage bodies and institutions, community organizations and local development initiatives
• The media
• Teaching
• Areas related to Irish studies & ethnic studies.

You can also pursue MA and Diploma courses in Irish Folklore at graduate level, as well as MLitt and PhD studies, specializing in one of the many areas of the subject.