Location
Dublin, Belfast, Ireland, Northern Ireland
Program Description
Global Perspectives on Civil Rights, Social Justice & Peace Studies offers an important socio-historical framework of the history of Ireland from pre-Christian to modern times. This syllabus includes a study of Ireland’s two capital cities, British imperialism, famine, economic inequality, emigration, the Irish-American impact on the United States, civil rights, social justice, peace studies and conflict resolution of Northern Ireland, comparative narratives in the USA, the current political climate, and a comprehensive program of field trips integrated with the class teaching to reinforce the learning outcomes. The course enables individuals to develop an understanding of Irish culture and its impact on European and American culture. Upon completion of the study abroad course, students should be able to identify problematic issues regarding the concept of “Irishness” and reflect and compare this notion with experiences and representations in the United States. The course encourages critical discussion and reflections about the differences between US, Irish, and European cultures and the collective relationship that individuals have within their societies. In particular, the course will develop critical thinking about conflict resolution, modern political structures, and the role of civil rights and equality in the development of nations.
This program is focused on conflict resolution and civil rights across the United States, Ireland, and other European cultures and the collective relationship that individuals have within their societies. A variety of activities are included to immerse individuals in the cultural experience abroad and familiarize them with the Irish culture from the Neolithic period into modern times. For example, critical discussions and learning will stem from eight lectures about cultural identity, civil rights, colonization, and traditions by scholars, experts, activists, and community members.
Interactive and experiential learning is also included through multiple guided tours to museums & historical sites (ex: EPIC Museum in Dublin, Book of Kells at Trinity College, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Lower Falls Road, Shankill Row, Belfast Castle, Mount Stewart House, North Down Museum, Ulster American Folk Park, etc.), artistic engagements (ex: Tour of Belfast’s political murals, National Gallery of Ireland, Irish Rock 'N' Roll Museum Experience, the Liberties or South City music trails, Ulster Museum, etc.), and landscapes (ex: Dublin’s five iconic Georgian Squares, O’Connell Street, St. Stephen’s Green, Phoenix Park, Giant’s Causeway, Titanic Slipways, Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge, Dark Hedges Road, etc.).
Location Description
The program will be hosted in Dublin, Ireland, and Belfast, Northern Ireland. Dublin is the largest city and capital of Ireland. It is located near the midpoint of Ireland's east coast, at the mouth of the River Liffey, and at the center of the Dublin Region. Founded as a Viking settlement, the city has been Ireland's primary city for most of the island's history since medieval times. Today, it is an economic, administrative, and cultural center for the island of Ireland. Dublin is a UNESCO City of Literature and has produced many world-famous musicians and writers, including U2, Thin Lizzy, Sinéad O'Connor, George Bernard Shaw, Samuel Beckett, and W.B. Yeats.
The city's streets are filled with art and historic buildings, and 18th-century parks host festivals, markets, and films. The weather is usually a daily mix of sunshine, rain, and wind. January in Dublin tends to be cold and damp, so weather-appropriate attire will be necessary.
Belfast is the capital of Northern Ireland and the second-largest city on the island of Ireland. It's on the island's northeast coast on the banks of the River Lagan and is connected to the open sea through Belfast Lough and the North Channel. The city's name comes from the Irish phrase Béal Feirste, which translates to “Mouth of the (River) Farset.” The city flourishes as a vibrant hub for great cuisine, culture, arts, and shopping, and Queen’s University. January in Belfast has daily high temperatures around 45°F, rarely falling below 38°F or exceeding 52°F.
The weather is usually a daily mix of sunshine, rain, and wind. January in Belfast tends to be cold and damp, so weather-appropriate attire will be necessary. Students spend the first six nights in Dublin, travel to Belfast and stay three nights, and then return to Dublin for one night before flying back to the U.S. (or their home location) out of Dublin Airport.
Director
Melissa Švigelj | svigelmm@jmu.edu | Justice Studies
Accommodations
Vegan, Vegetarian and Gluten-free diets are accommodated with notice. The daily meal plan includes a continental breakfast each morning at the hotels which consists of items such as juice, coffee, cereal & yogurt, toast & preserves, pastries, cold meats and cheeses, with provisions for vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free diets. Breakfast is included every day at the hotels. The program includes ten lunches and two dinners. Students should plan to purchase snacks and other evening meals.
Additional Items to Consider
COVID19 - At present, visitors from the USA do not need to provide documentation regarding Covid-19, but please note that all participants of this program should be fully vaccinated against Covid-19. All participants must be willing to wear masks if/when requested, and if participants test positive for Covid-19, they must isolate for the recommended period.
Passports and Visas: Participants need a valid passport to travel to Ireland and will receive additional information about packing and traveling. Ireland does not require US citizens to get a visa to travel- but international students who hold passports from other countries may require a visa. This can be arranged by your nearest Consulate of Ireland, but it can take time so please check students’ requirements as soon as they express interest in travel. Accommodations: Students should be advised that they should be able to walk comfortably at moderate distances. It should be noted that there is a considerable amount of walking on field trips etc., and not all facilities are wheelchair accessible. Medical or personal accommodations– that may affect the personal safety and well-being of a student, and of the group as a whole should be provided.
Cell phones: Roaming and data charges in Ireland can break your budget if you're not careful.
These tips will keep you connected affordably: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/tips-using-mobile-phone-ireland/ireland-travel-tips/) The city of Dublin partners with SmartWave Technologies to provide “Downtown Dublin Wi-Fi,” a reliable, free, public Wi-Fi network that covers some of the Downtown Dublin area. Belfast also offers free Wi-Fi in many places for locals and tourists.
Applicant Criteria
Applicants must have a GPA minimum of 2.0
Open to all undergraduate majors and class levels.
Open to non-JMU students.
Application Process
This list serves as an application preview. To apply, students will need to complete the following:
- Study Abroad Online Application ($40 fee)
- Short Essay
- Resume
- Interview with Program Director may be required
- Official transcript required for non-JMU students; unofficial transcript required for JMU students
Further details and instructions about these application requirements will be available upon log-in.
Application Deadline
Dates
All dates are tentative and subject to change
Courses
JUST 301: Special Topics in Justice Studies
Courses listed here are to be used as a general guideline for program curriculum. *All courses are considered pending until approved by the Academic Department, Program, and/or College.
Cost
MSC 5731
100 East Grace Street
Harrisonburg, Virginia 22807
