For students interested in history, geography, archaeology and wildlife, the BA (Hons) in History & Geography in GMIT’s Mayo Campus offers the opportunity to study an area they love while preparing for a career afterwards.
The programme combines classroom-based and fieldwork activities to give students a diverse and varied experience that is both academic and hands-on.
A range of modules
Students of the programme study a range of modules including History (European, Irish, Local, Genealogy); Folklore; Physical and Human Geography; Natural Environment and Ecology; Archaeology (Prehistoric and Medieval) and Tourism.
Students undertake work experience as part of their studies. Programme Chair Dr Fiona White observes ‘the work experience component provides our students with valuable practical experience, in addition to allowing them to build relevant industry contacts’.
Graduates can proceed to a range of interesting careers using the knowledge and skills gained during their studies. These include work in environmental conservation, rural and community development, museums, archaeology, tourism and libraries.
Master of Education
Graduates who wish to become teachers of history and geography may apply for the Professional Master of Education programme. Many graduates of the programme have gone on to complete post-graduate studies at masters and doctoral level.
Dr White notes ‘this programme may be of interest to those who do not meet the language requirements to study arts in other colleges. ‘There is no requirement for students applying for the History & Geography to have studied a foreign language’.
“Natural and cultural environments”
Liam Loftus is a graduate of the programme and now works as Corncrake Officer for west Connacht. He remarks: “I highly recommend this course for anyone interested in getting a better understanding of natural and cultural environments at both a national and international level.
“I have found my degree to be a great benefit to finding work both at home and abroad.”
There are three routes to studying this programme at Level 6 (GA862), Level 7 (GA872) and Level 8 (GA887), with progression between levels possible.
Contact fiona.white@gmit.ie for further details.
