View all Courses
Heritage
Higher Certificate in Arts
Course Details
CAO Code | AU425 |
---|---|
Level | 6 |
Duration | 2 Years |
CAO Points | 250 (2024) |
Method of Delivery | On-campus |
Campus Locations | Galway City – Dublin Road |
Mode of Delivery | Full Time |
Work placement | Yes |
Course Overview
This two-year Higher Certificate in Heritage Studies at ATU Galway City campus provides students with a broad-based knowledge and understanding of the built, cultural, natural, and digital heritages of Ireland and Europe.
Heritage involves the practical application and use of the past in the present in heritage tourism, visitor attractions, museum exhibitions, public history, community archaeology, conservation/restoration projects, festivals, reenactments, commemorations, national identities, genealogy, film, TV, radio, libraries, archives, and creative digitalisation.
With an interdisciplinary and applied focus, this two-year course aims to provide a broad-based knowledge and understanding of the built, cultural, natural, and digital heritages of Ireland and Europe.
It will also equip students with language, communication and information technology skills for functioning effectively in a professional context.
The course will also provide a hands-on learning experience by adopting a strongly applied focus, grounding as much classroom learning as possible within the context of fieldtrips to heritage sites and attractions.
Course Details
Year 1
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
1 |
Academic and Professional Skills (SC:HC)The aim of this module is to develop academic and professional development skills for student success in higher education and beyond. This module combines online learning activities and small group workshops to focus on areas such as academic writing and integrity, creative thinking, problem-solving, time management, communications, group work, technology, innovation and presentation skills. Learning Outcomes 1. Apply appropriate tools and principles to optimise the learning experience. 2. Develop self-reflection practices for individual and group-work activities. 3. Recognise different information sources and apply the principles of academic integrity. 4. Assess a variety of professional communication practices and digital tools and apply to problem-solving. 5. Consider how the chosen discipline has a responsibility to wider society. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Ireland's Linguistic TraditionsThis module will explore the two major language traditions, Irish and English, that historically have been the vehicles for Irish imagination, historical narratives and identity. It will position the Irish and English languages within the wider context of European and world linguistic history. The appearance and the characteristics of the Hiberno-English dialect will be investigated. Particular attention will also be paid to Irish placenames, and to Gaelic and non-Gaelic surnames as elements in Ireland's linguistic inheritance. Learning Outcomes 1. outline the nature of language evolution recognising particularly the subdivisions of Indo-european. 2. account forthe historical forces that explain the current positions of the Irish andEnglish languages on the island ofIreland;discuss in particular the evolution and legitimacy of the Hiberno-English dialectandillustrate its most notable features. 3. differentiate the origins of Irish surnames, illustrating what these origins tell us about Ireland’s past and the story of its peoples. 4. decipher the meaning of many placenames, extrapolating their historical significance. 5. identify and examine how Ireland’s linguistic traditions have been used by creative writers to explore aspects of Irish history and identity. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Irish and European History, 400-1200On completion of this module learners should have a fundamental understanding of the principal themes in Irish and European history from 400-1200 and a sound knowledge of the key episodes that characterise this period, from the mission of St Patrick to the coming of the Normans. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate familiarity with the principal themes and overall narrative structure of early Irish Mediaeval history up to 1200. 2. Outline and describe thekey events in Irish History between 400-1200 within an appropriate international context. 3. Explain the interdisciplinary relationships between early mediaeval history and cognate disciplines (e.g. archaeology, historical geography, etc.). 4. Illustrate and communicatethe relationship between Early Mediaevalhistory and the broader heritage industry. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Earth Processes and Landforms 1Varied forces of nature shape the earths surface over a range of spatial and temporal scales. These forces act upon the physical structure of the Earth to create the physical landscape around us, one that is subject to continual change. This module will provide students with the necessary knowledge and investigative skills to make informed judgements on selected earth processes and landforms. It will introduce students to a broad range of fundamental concepts, processes and techniques that are critical to the understanding of physical geography, including the current suggestion that we have entered a new geological epoch, where human activities are the main driving force of the dynamics of the Earth system (the Anthropocene). Learning Outcomes 1. Understandthe geological evolution of Planet Earth through time and in particular the key geological events that have shaped Ireland. 2. Define and explain key concepts in the geography and geology ofphysical features of the earths surface. 3. Acquire practical skills linked to the interpretation of cartographic information, using a variety of methods and tools. 4. Observe and interpret geographic phenoma in the field. 5. Connect the module material with current events and everyday life, particularly as it relates to climate change, ecosystem services and Education for Sustainability. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Information Technology for Heritage StudiesThis module is designed to introduce learners to the fundamental concepts and principles of information technology as it applies to the field of heritage. Participants will discover how hardware and software packages are a fundamental part of heritage management. The module will cover word-processing and creation of presentation and PDF documents. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate an applied practical knowledge and use of a range of common data-formats for electronic texts, images and graphics, databases and research presentations. To include the safe backup and storage of material on both local and external devices, LAN and cloud-based services such 2. Demonstrate the ability to manipulate, format and output research data in a range of appropriate layouts for electronic and printed texts. 3. Present professional presentations incorporating image/graphic, text and video, from research materials. 4. Demonstrate an ability to create and edit images using a suitable graphic image editing software |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Cultural Studies: IrelandOn successful completion of this module the learner should know, understand and/or be able to demonstrate the specificity of Ireland's rich cultural heritage: linguistic, literary and musical culture in terms of Ireland's varied contributions to contemporary international culture . Drawing on the past to inform the present, insights into Ireland's musical, literary, linguistic and filmic heritage will form a unique introduction for the learner on this rich and varied subject bearing in mind the United Nations Developmental Goals of inclusively, cultural and societal sustainability. Learning Outcomes 1. Understand and explain the specificity of Ireland’s linguistic, literary and musical culture 2. Demonstrate the presence of the past’ in Ireland’s varied contributions to contemporary international culture . 3. Form informed insights into the specifically cultural aspects of Ireland’s heritage |
05 | Elective |
1 |
World Cultures and EtiquetteAs the world becomes increasingly globalised, there is a risk that modern citizens may no longer recognise and value crucial societal differences that are implicit to other's cultures. This module aims to implement a practice of recognising and valuing cultural differences, so students are equipped to communicate respectfully around the world. Learning Outcomes 1. Recogniseand value cultural differences. 2. Identify and implementethical cross-cultural communication practices. 3. Promote and advocate for inclusivity. 4. Develop sustainable capabilities to adapt one’s behaviour toa variety of cultural settings. |
05 | Elective |
2 |
Rural Field StudiesA practically oriented field-based module exploring the range and diversity of physical heritage, both natural and built. The module is delivered in a residential setting over one week (5 days) and is a form of learning through experience that builds a bridge between concepts and ideas introduced in the classroom and the 'real' world. It develops fieldwork skills and provides an opportunity for the students to apply them in a particular region of Ireland. Learning Outcomes 1. Recognise the role of fieldwork as a concept and process in Heritage Studies. 2. Record andinterpretresults of basic fieldwork for natural and built elements of the rural landscape and relate observations to theory studied. 3. Interpret cartographic information, using a variety of methods and tools. 4. Assess the tangible and intangible aspects of the natural and built heritage in the rural landscape. 5. Recognise the need for stewardship of natural and semi-natural environments and the fostering of advocacy for environmental protection in the context of Education for Sustainable Development. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Reading Irish LiteratureThis module will provide an introduction to Ireland's literary heritage in English and Irish. It will examine the issues of defining an Irish literature, discuss literary forms and themes, profile and analyse selected texts (including drama, poetry, novels and short stories) and require attendance at / participation in literary events. Learning Outcomes 1. Appreciate the antiquity, variety, continuity (and dis-continuity) of Irish literary heritage 2. Compare and contrast the differing literary treatment of common subject matter 3. Develop an understanding of the phenomenon of intertextuality and the workings of literary influence 4. Be aware of the degree to which authors draw on Irish and non-Irish material for inspiration 5. To appreciate iconic texts of Irish literary tradition, including examples by the four winners of the Nobel prize in literature |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Introduction to Archaeology and Built HeritageThis module provides a general introduction to the study of built and artefactual heritage through the lenses of archaeology, folklife/ethnology, architectural history and heritage studies. The value of built and artefactual heritage to humanity is discussed. Learners are introduced to selected archaeological dating methods, to their use in assessing environmental change, and to the structures that are in place to protect and manage built and artefactual heritage on the island of Ireland. Learning Outcomes 1. Compare and contrast how the study of built and/or artefactual heritage is approached in the disciplines of archaeology, folklife/ethnology, architectural history and heritage studies 2. Discuss, at an introductory level, the historical,intellectual, cultural,social and economicvalue of built and artefactual heritage, including contested heritage 3. Outline the main principles, techniques andadvantages of selected archaeological dating methodswith special reference, where appropriate,to their use in assessing environmental change 4. Identify the principal legislative measures and bodies involved in the protection and management of built and artefactual heritage in Ireland, north and south |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Irish and European History, 1200-1600On completion of this module learners should have a fundamental understanding of the principal themes in Irish and European history from 1200-1600 and a sound knowledge of the key episodes that characterise this period, from the reign of King John to the Battle of Kinsale. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate familiarity with the principal themes and overall narrative structure of later Mediaeval and Early Modern Irish and European history up to 1600. 2. Outline and describe the key events in Irish History between 1200-1600 positioning them in a broader European context. 3. Explain the interdisciplinary relationships between later Mediaeval/Early Modern history and cognate disciplines (e.g. archaeology, historical geography, etc.). 4. Illustrate and communicate the relationship between later Mediaeval/Early Modern history and the broader heritage sector, including the heritage tourism industry. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Earth Processes and Landforms 2Varied forces of nature shape the Earths surface over a range of spatial and temporal scales. These forces act upon the physical structure of the Earth to create the physical landscape around us, one that is subject to continual change. This module will provide students with the necessary knowledge and investigative skills to make informed judgements on selected earth processes and landforms. It will introduce students to a broad range of fundamental concepts, processes and techniques that are critical to the understanding of physical geography, including the current suggestion that we have entered a new geological epoch, where human activities are the main driving force of the dynamics of the Earth system (the Anthropocene). Learning Outcomes 1. Define and explain key concepts in the geography and geology of physical features of the earths surface. 2. Acquire practical skills linked to the interpretation of cartographic information, using a variety of methods and tools. 3. Observe and interpret geographic phenoma in the field. 4. Develop self learning skills through independent research. 5. Connect the module material with current events and everyday life, particularly as it relates to climate change, ecosystem services and Education for Sustainability. |
05 | Mandatory |
Year |
Gaeilge Language and Culture 1Set at CEFR level B1.1, this lower intermediate course aims to build on the language competencies of learners who have studied Irish to Leaving Certificate or an equivalent standard. The course will also enhance understanding of the social, cultural and literary context of the language. Learning Outcomes 1. Reception: Listening. Understand the main points of clear speech on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, college and leisure, and media content concerning current affairs or topics of personal interest. 2. Reception: Reading. Understand texts that consist mainly of high frequency, every-day or job related language, and the description of events, feelings and wishes in personal communication. 3. Spoken Interaction/Production. Deal with most situations likely to arise while interacting in an Irish-speaking environment. Enter unprepared into conversation on topics that are familiar, of personal interest or pertinent to everyday life. Connect phrases in a simple way in order to describe experiences, events and aspirations. Give brief explanations for opinions and plans. Narrate a story and givereactions to the plot of a book or film. 4. Written and Online Interaction/Production. Interact in relation to experiences and events, impressions and feelings, having prepared in advance. Ask for and give simple clarifications, and respond to questions and comments in some detail. Write straightforward connected text on topics that are familiar or of personal interest. 5. Mediation: Text/Concept/Communication. Convey information given inclear, well-structured informational texts on subjects that are familiar or of current interest. Help define a task in basic terms, invite others to contribute their views and ask appropriate questions to checkunderstanding. Facilitate shared communication between people. 6. Engage with selected aspects of Irish language culture at a level commensurate with learning outcomes 1-6 above. |
10 | Elective |
Year |
French Language and Culture 1(CEFR A1.1) This module offers students the opportunity to learn French from beginner's level. The module will also enhance understanding of the cultural and contextual environment of the target language. This module develops communicative language skills and adopts an action-oriented approach to teaching and learning. Upon successful completion of this module students are deemed to have reached A1 Level of the Common European Framework. Learning Outcomes 1. Identify, when people speak slowly and clearly, familiar words/phrases/conversations and concrete information (e.g., about him/herself, family, school, hobbies or surroundings) 3. Interact, ask, and answer basic questions on predictable areas of immediate need and familiar topics (e.g., everyday life, family, school). 4. Produce short, elementary written sentences, complete easy forms. 5. Recognise social and cultural aspects of France and French-speaking countries introduced in the module. |
10 | Elective |
Year |
German Language and Culture 1(CEFR A1.1) This module offers students the opportunity to learn German from beginner's level. The module will also enhance understanding of the cultural and contextual environment of the target language. This module develops communicative language skills and adopts an action-oriented approach to teaching and learning. Upon successful completion of this module students are deemed to have reached A1 Level of the Common European Framework. Learning Outcomes 1. Identify, when people speak slowly and clearly, familiar words/phrases/conversations and concrete information (e.g., about him/herself, family,school, hobbies or surroundings) |
10 | Elective |
Year |
Spanish Language and Culture 1This module offers learners the opportunity to study Spanish from beginner's level. The module delivery will focus on a student-centred, active learning approach. Learners will develop communicative skills, including oral comprehension and production, written comprehension and production, interaction and mediation. Upon successful completion of this module, learners are deemed to have reached A1.1 Level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Learning Outcomes 1. Identify when people speak slowly and clearly familiar words/phrases/conversations and concrete information (e.g., about him/herself, family, school, hobbies or surroundings). 2. Distinguish familiar names, words, notices, and simple sentences in short texts (e.g., visual adverts, social media texts, leaflets). 3. Interact, ask, and answer basic questions on predictable areas of immediate need and familiar topics (e.g., everyday life, family, school). 4. Produce short, elementary written sentences, complete easy forms. 5. Recognise social and cultural aspects of Spain and Spanish-speaking countries introduced in the module |
10 | Elective |
Year 2
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
1 |
Irish FolkloreThis module introduces learners to a selection of major texts published by some of the most influential scholars of Irish folklore since the early nineteenth century, giving an opportunity to discuss various folkloric themes and the issue of cultural continuity versus innovation and change. The historical, ideological and social contexts of the selected texts are analysed, thus giving learners an appreciation of how folklore emerged as an academic discipline and developed in Ireland. The module reinforces learners' training in the conventions of academic research and writing, and gives them an opportunity to use a variety of sources in order to research a local folklore topic of interest to them. Learning Outcomes 1. Identify the major historical, ideological and social forces that have influenced the development ofIrish folklore research 2. Discuss the motivations, work and impact of key writers in the field of Irish folklore since the early 19th century 3. Research a local folklore topic using a variety of suitable source types including scholarly publications, archivalmaterial from the National Folklore Collection and,where possible, primary interviews 4. Present research and analysis using established conventions of academic writing |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Biogeography and Natural History 1This module provides students with an understanding of the physical, ecological, historical and social factors which underpin ecosystem dynamics. Particular focus is placed on Irelands ecosystems and how they have responded to environmental change in time and space. It will introduce an ecological basis to the causes, and impacts of, climate change and biodiversity declines and offer solutions to how these trends may be reversed. Field excursions and practical activities will develop field skills and introduce the student to a variety of semi natural habitat types as it applies to the Irish Natural Heritage Classification. Learning Outcomes 1. Recognise Natural History as a practice that spans disciplines. 2. Describe the basic principles of ecology. 3. Discuss key ecosystem, evolutionary and biodiversity concepts in biogeography. 4. Identify and interpretselect Irish habitat types and their characteristic fauna and floraas it applies to the Irish natural heritage classification. 5. Connect the module material with current events and everyday life, particularly as it relates to the twin crises of climate change and biodiversity decline in additionto Education for Sustainability. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Modern Irish History and MemoryOn completion of this module students will/should have a fundamental knowledge of the principal episodes of modern Irish history, along with an appreciation of the memory, heritage and commemoration of these events. Learning Outcomes 1. Evaluate the principal episodes that have impinged upon the emergence of modern Ireland and recognise the importance of the interplay between history and memory; 2. Demonstrate a strong command of the relevant literature in the field, including an awareness of the interdisciplinary relationships between history and cognate fields, including: heritage studies, memory studies, and public history; 3. Demonstrate accomplished communication, discussion, interpretation, presentation, and writing skills; 4. Demonstrate an ability to utilise a broad range of primary and secondary sources (e.g. blogs, books, book chapters, dissertations, field evidence, films, journal articles, magazine articles, manuscripts, maps, newspaper articles, podcasts, theses, websites, and videos); 5. Draw on the past to comprehend the present and grasp the importance of securing the future, thus linking to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Digital Heritage Tools 1This module will provide the students with the skills and competencies to capture, create, interpret and integrate Heritage related metadata across software applications. The student will also develop skills in multimedia, including creating, editing and enhancing digital images and exporting them for specialised use in the Heritage sector. The module will also incorporate learning from other modules where the student will produce a professional podcast or audio guide which can be used for public outreach, display and archival methodology. Learning Outcomes 1. Investigate the use of spreadsheets in the Heritage sector, including how to input, transform, and export heritage relatedmetadata. 2. Demonstrate the ability to create digital images in formats required for reproduction in online, archival and display environments using appropriate and relevant software. 3. Demonstrate the ability to record, edit and produce audio using simple recording software for podcasts/ museum audio guides and output them to aprofessional standard. 4. Combine technical and conceptual skills in order to develop and deliver a completed podcast/ audio guide suitable for public audiences in museum/heritage centre exhibition environments using simple recording equipment. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Urban Field StudiesLearners on this module will develop skills in heritage survey within an urban space. This module offers experiential learning and builds on knowledge and skills developed in other associated modules combing knowledge from Geography and History. Students will learn about historical sources, and how to build observations skills in heritage areas such as planning, social development, urban historical geography and archaeological fabric identification, and discover how to uncover the story of individuals through the use of historical statistical data such as census, valuation, and public art. Learning Outcomes 1. Develop and demonstrate an understanding of the principles of conducting geographical and historical fieldwork within an urban setting. 2. Identify and record physical evidence of human development on an urban space through the eyes of a geographer, historian and archaeologist. 3. Demonstrate an understanding of the evolution and function of urban space, and how heritage and public art are expressed in how planning laws, theories, and regulations shape urban spaces. 4. Interpret cartographic information within an urban space, using digital and print resources. 5. Undertand the ethical issues of field work, data collection and management of data. 6. Utilise historical documentation to develop an understanding of the development of socio-economic identify of urban spaces. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Biogeography and Natural History 2This module provides students with an understanding of the physical, ecological, historical and social factors which underpin ecosystem dynamics. Particular focus is placed on Irelands ecosystems and how they have responded to environmental change in time and space. It will introduce an ecological basis to the causes, and impacts of, climate change and biodiversity declines and offer solutions to how these trends may be reversed. Field excursions and practical activities will develop field skills and introduce the student to a variety of semi natural habitat types as it applies to the Irish Natural Heritage Classification. Learning Outcomes 1. Recognise Natural History as a practice that spans disciplines. 2. Describe the basic principles of ecology. 3. Discuss key ecosystem, evolutionary and biodiversity concepts in biogeography. 4. Identify and interpret select Irish habitat types and their characteristic fauna and flora as it applies to the Irish natural heritage classification. 5. Connect the module material with current events and everyday life, particularly as it relates to the twin crises of climate change and biodiversity decline in additionto Education for Sustainability. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Later Modern International History and MemoryOn completion of this module students will/should have a fundamental knowledge of some of the principal episodes of later modern international history (in the twentieth and twenty-first centuries), along with an appreciation of the varieties of memory associated with the heritage and commemoration of past conflicts between international powers. Learning Outcomes 1. Evaluate the principal causes, courses, consequences of three major international conflicts and recognise the importance of the interplay between history and memory; 2. Demonstrate a strong command of the relevant literature in the field, including an awareness of the interdisciplinary relationships between international history and cognate fields, including: heritage studies, memory studies, public history, geopolitics, international relations, and human rights; 3. Demonstrate accomplished communication, discussion, interpretation, presentation, and writing skills; 4. Demonstrate an ability to utilise a broad range of primary and secondary sources (e.g. blogs, books, book chapters, dissertations, field evidence, films, journal articles, magazine articles, manuscripts, maps, newspaper articles, podcasts, theses, websites, and videos); 5. Draw on the past to comprehend the present and grasp the importance of securing the future, thus linking to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
European History Field StudiesOn completion of this module students will/should be able to demonstrate the importance of how first-hand field explorations can enhance one's knowledge and understanding of the public history and heritage of a major European city (e.g. Berlin). Learning Outcomes 1. Gain a better knowledge of Europe, from medieval times to the present, by familiarising themselves with the history and heritage of a destination (e.g. Berlin), including: its streetscape, historic sites, buildings, museums, memorials, and tourism products; 2. Produce an original heritage trail for the destination, including: a synopsis of key attractions (e.g. historic sites, buildings, museums, and memorials), a map of the route of a tour, photographs, and travel directions; 3. Furnish a comparative study of how the histories of the destination are exhibited and retold (e.g. at the Deutsches Historisches Museum [the German Historical Museum ] and Mrkische Museum [one of five museums belonging to the Stadtmuseum Berlin Foundation ]); 4. Offer an informed analysis of the public history, memory and heritage of a key event (e.g. the Holocaust in Berlin), through a combination of field evidence and perspectives gleaned from academic literature; 5. Enhance their understanding of the European history through fieldwork and an appreciation of scholarship in heritage studies, public history, memory studies, and museology; 6. Demonstrate accomplished communication, discussion, interpretation, presentation, and writing skills; 7. Demonstrate an ability to utilise a broad range of primary and secondary sources (e.g. blogs, books, book chapters, dissertations, field evidence, films, journal articles, magazine articles, manuscripts, maps, newspaper articles, podcasts, theses, websites, and videos); 8. Draw on the past to comprehend the present and grasp the importance of securing the future, thus linking to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
History of Art and DesignAn overview of Art History from the Renaissance to the present with particular emphasis on Irish Art & Design History from the 18th Century to the present. Learning Outcomes 1. Have a deeper awareness and appreciation of Art History and in particular Irish Art History 2. Develop visual memory and build a framework of reference to art works 3. Appreciate the works of art in the context of the prevalent ideas and historic events in which they were produced 4. Understand and be able to use the language and methods of art history 5. Explore works of art independently. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Archaeology and Built Heritage of Rural IrelandThis module approaches the built heritage of the Irish rural landscape from the perspectives of field monument categorisation, cartographic analysis, impacts of human activity and environmental change, place-name evidence, and traditional interpretations in literature and folklore. Learning Outcomes 1. Classify, date, describe and interpret majorcategories of archaeologicalfield monumentand historical structure found in the Irish rurallandscape, with reference to related types outsideIreland 2. Locate and effectively employ cartographic data in researching the built heritage of Ireland’s rural landscape 3. Assess the impact of human activity and environmental change on the built heritage of Ireland’s rural landscape 4. Apply place-name evidence in researching Ireland’s built heritage 5. Discuss traditionalinterpretations in literature and folkloreof Ireland’s archaeologicallandscape |
05 | Mandatory |
Year |
Guiding SkillsTo equip the student with the necessary knowledge and skills in researching and compiling comprehensive itineraries and guiding commentaries, as well as developing their communication and leadership skills to become a competent guide. Learning Outcomes 1. Appreciate the factors which influence their effectiveness as guides. 2. Explore the changing market profiles nationally and internationally and the wide variety of professional skills required to service them. 3. Develop an understanding of interpersonal skills and the ability to anticipate and satisfy customer needs. 4. Demonstrate the ability to carry out in-depth local research and compile informative and interesting guiding notes and itineraries. 5. Exhibit an appreciation of the importance of health, safety and welfare in the planning and performance of any tour activity. 6. Take responsibility for own professional development and or assist others in identifying their own professional development needs. 7. Demonstrate the skills of a guide to communicate and lead a tour group. |
10 | Elective |
Year |
Gaeilge Language and Culture 2This year long module covers the language syllabus at CEFR level B1.2 and offers learners the opportunity to continue their study of Irish at lower intermediate/intermediate level. The course will also further enhance understanding of the social and cultural context of the language and will incorporate the study of Irish language media and film. Learning Outcomes 1. Reception: Listening: Demonstrate an understanding of the main points of clear speech on familiar matters, media programmes on current affairs or topics of personal or professional interest when delivery is relatively slow and clear. 2. Reception: Reading : Show comprehension of texts that consist mainly of high frequency, including descriptions of events and feelings. 3. Oral Interaction/Production : Deal with a range of situations while interacting in an Irishspeaking environment, extemporise on familiar topics, rationalise, explain, opine and narrate. 4. Written and Online Interaction/Production :Write simple connected text on familiar and personal topics, describe experiences and impressions. 5. Mediation: Text/Concept/Communication: Convey information given inclear, well-structured informational texts on subjects that are familiar or of current interest. Help define a task in basic terms, invite others to contribute their views and ask appropriate questions to checkunderstanding. Facilitate shared communication between people. 6. Show increasing responsibility for selfdirected learning. 7. Demonstrate a critical understanding of selected works of literature, film and media. |
10 | Elective |
Year |
French Language and Culture 2This course offers students the opportunity to continue with a foreign language at level A1.2 and A2.1. The course will hone understanding of the cultural and contextual environment of the target language. It will further prepare students who wish to avail of international placement opportunities or of the Erasmus year abroad. Learning Outcomes 1. Listening reception: Can understand phrases and the highest frequency vocabulary related to areas of most immediate personal relevance (e.g. very basic personal and family information, shopping, local geography, employment) and can catch the main point in short, clear, simple messages and announcements. 2. Reading reception: Can read very short, simple texts. Can find specific, predictable information in simple everyday material such as advertisements, prospectuses, menus and timetables and can understand short simple personal letters. 3. Written and online interaction & production:Can engage in basic social interaction, expressing feelings, actions, needs and responding to comments with thanks, apology, or answers to questions. Can complete simple transactions (e.g., ordering goods), can follow simple instructions and collaborate in a shared task. Can write a series of simple phrases or sentences linked with ‘and’, ‘but’,’because’, etc. 4. Spokeninteraction & production: Can communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar topics and activities (e.g., family, other people, living conditions, educational background, present/recent job). Can handle very short social exchanges, even though may not be able to keep the conversation going. 5. Mediation: Can convey the main point(s) involved in short, simple texts on everyday subjects of immediate interest (e.g., personal wants and needs), provided these are expressed clearly in simple language. Can collaborate in simple, practical tasks, asking what others think, making suggestions and understanding responses. Can indicate understanding, agreement and can recognise disagreement. 6. Cultural aspects will be included in listening reception, reading reception, spoken interaction & production, written and online interaction & production, and mediation. |
10 | Elective |
Year |
German Language and Culture 2This module offers students the opportunity to continue with a foreign language at A1.2 or A2.1 level. The course will hone understanding of the cultural and contextual environment of the target language. During the year, students will undertake individual and group tasks to develop their competencies in spoken and written production as well as their ability to interact in the target language. This module will prepare students who wish to avail of international placement opportunities or the Erasmus year abroad. Upon successful completion of this module students will be progressing towards achieving Level A2 within the Common European Framework of Reference. Learning Outcomes 1. Identify phrases and the highest frequency vocabulary related to areas of most immediate personal relevance (e.g. basic personal and family information, eating out, local geography, the environment and employment) and catch the main point in short, clear, simple messages and announcements. 2. Select and find specific, predictable information in simple everyday material such as advertisements, prospectuses, menus, and timetables and understand short simple personal letters. 3. Reproduce a series of simple linked phrases or sentences on areas of most immediate personal relevance and respond to comments with thanks or apology. 4. Communicate orally during routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar topics and activities (e.g., family, other people, living conditions, educational background, the environment and employment). 5. Translate short, simple texts on everyday subjects of immediate interest (e.g., personal wants and needs), provided these are expressed clearly in simple language. |
10 | Elective |
Year |
Spanish Language and Culture 2This module will build on learners elementary knowledge of the structure and vocabulary of the language. It will hone an understanding of the cultural and contextual environment of the target language. It will further prepare learners who wish to avail of international placement opportunities or of the Erasmus semester in Spain. The emphasis will be on improving communication and comprehension. There will be greater focus on grammar, conversational expressions and vocabulary in order to continue to consolidate comprehension and communication skills. Upon successful completion of this module, learners are deemed to have reached A1.2 Level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Learning Outcomes 1. Identifyphrases and the highest frequency vocabulary related to areas of most immediate personal relevance (e.g.basic, personal and family information,eatingout,local geography,the environment andemployment)and catchthe main point in short, clear, simple messages and announcements. 2. Selectand find specific, predictable information in simple everyday material such as advertisements, prospectuses,menus,and timetables and understand short simple personal letters. 3. Reproducea series of simple linked phrases orsentences onareas of most immediate personal relevanceand respond to comments with thanksor apology. 4. Communicateorallyduringroutine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar topics and activities (e.g.family, other people, living conditions, educational background,the environment andemployment). 5. Translateshort, simple texts on everyday subjects of immediate interest (e.g.personal wants and needs), provided these are expressed clearly in simple language. |
10 | Elective |
Progression
Level 6 graduates may progress to the final year of the Bachelor of Arts in Heritage Studies (Level 7)
Download a prospectus
Entry Requirements
Leaving Certificate Entry Requirement | 5 subjects at O6/H7 |
QQI/FET Major Award Required | Any |
Additional QQI/FET/ Requirements | None |
Fees
Total Fees EU: €3000
This annual student contribution charge is subject to change by Government. Additional tuition fees may apply. Click on the link below for more information on fees, grants and scholarships.
Total Fees Non-EU: €12000
Subject to approval by ATU Governing Body (February 2025)
Further information on feesCareers
This course will appeal to students who are seeking a shorter period of study and a quicker route to up-skilling for operational positions in the cultural heritage, historic environment or tourism industries.
Employment opportunities will exist in areas such as the following:
Arts administration
Antiques and collectibles
Archaeology
Business
Charities and NGOs
Civic trusts
Civil service
Community development
Conservation and restoration
Creative digital media
Environmental consultancies
Family history centres
Genealogical companies
Government departments
Heritage agencies
Heritage centres
Hospitality
Journalism
Leisure
Local authorities
Museums
National parks
Publishing houses
Retail outlets
Technology companies
Tour guiding
Tourism agencies
Visitor attractions
Professional Accreditation
Students choosing the Regional Guiding elective can be certified with the Fáilte Ireland Regional Guiding Certificate, following successful completion of Year 2 of this programme.
Further Information
Contact Information
Department of Heritage and Tourism, Languages and Humanities
Programme Chair
Mark McCarthy
T: + 353 (0)91742411
E: mark.mccarthy@atu.ie
Diarmuid O’Conghaile
Head of Department
T: +353 (0) 94 2232
E: diarmuid.oconghaile@atu.ie
Heritage & Tourism; Humanities, Applied Languages & Communications