International Relations and Irish allows students to appreciate how the insights of political analysis (e.g. political theory, political institutions, international relations) and the tools of literary and linguistic inquiry combine to illuminate political and historical developments, including those in the contemporary world.International Relations at Queen’s is about more than just armed conflict and insurgency. It also examines such trends as globalisation and considers the challenge from the rise of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, the process of European integration, humanitarian issues (such as poverty, development and refugees), and the role of the media in conflict. We look at conflict, co-operation and its origins, dynamics and trajectories, at theories of society, at the value and ethical basis of political ideas and action, and at politics in different national and historical contexts.In Irish, the focus is on the modern language and culture. Language modules examine core aspects of written and spoken Irish, covering subjects such as syntax, phonetics and semantics. A range of optional modules provide you with a broad understanding of diverse aspects of Irish culture, society and identity. These include film studies, studies in Irish translation, language and rights, modern poetry, Irish linguistics, and the short story. The growth of Gaelic identity is also explored and insight into the country’s wider heritage is developed through the study of mythology, folklore and Scottish Gaelic. All our students spend an extended period in the Gaeltacht each summer as part of our residential course. Final-year students can also avail of work internships in an Irish-language setting.