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As we stand at the beginning of the 21st century, it is clear
that Europe will be the context within which Irish society will
develop. This has been the case for two millennia and more; but
increased communications, mobility of peoples and political connections
mean that the educated citizen of tomorrow cannot be ignorant
of Europe and its impact on Irish life.
However, "Europe" is a multi-dimensional concept that
means many different things, both positive and negative. This
cross-disciplinary study will enable students to explore these
concepts and consider them as contexts for future action. Students
will examine Europe not merely as an economic context but as a
cultural home. By doing so they will be developing the life-skills
for living and working in a world marked by great diversity yet
increasing unity.
The study of Ireland in Europe will have two basic poles: Europe
will be considered as cultural context and as a business environment.
Insights and applications will be drawn from a range of disciplines
under these two headings. Geographical and historical studies
will be used to contextualise the programme of study. To explore
the cultural landscape, students will examine case studies involving
music, art, literature and cinema. To engage with the business
environment students will pay particular attention to the evolution
of the European Union in its political, economic, legal and cultural
aspects.
As part of the College's commitment to the international dimension,
students will be able to spend a semester of their studies at
a partner institution elsewhere in the European Union, under the
auspices of the ERASMUS programme of the European Commissions.
As a result, the programme will equip students to engage with
others as citizens of Europe in the 21st century. Such graduates
will be well-placed to take up leadership roles in a cosmopolitan
Ireland to serve the needs of their community and economy.
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