Social Issues in Northern Ireland
For more information about 2022, please contact the program director.
Students in this Maymester program travel to Northern Ireland to get firsthand exposure to the transgenerational impact of the violence from the four-decade long conflict in Northern Ireland known as “The Troubles.” Economic injustice, oppression and discrimination are among the hallmarks of the divide between the Protestants and Catholics of Northern Ireland.
Visits include Belfast, Ballycastle, Londonderry/Derry, and parts in between in Northern Ireland. Students will spend time learning about the culture and history of Northern Ireland and visit community organizations that have been part of the country’s recovery process. They will have the opportunity to visit a retreat center called Corrymeela, “Hill of Harmony,” that has served as a safe haven for the people of Northern Ireland since the late 1960s and throughout the many-sided conflict known as The Troubles. Students will enjoy recreational outings to the scenic Antrim Coast, including the Giant’s Causeway, Swinging Bridge, Rathlin Island, and other notable locations in Northern Ireland.
Course Offerings: May 2020
SOWK 5776/7776 – Conflict Resolution, Peacekeeping, and Reconciliation Provides undergraduate and graduate students with an intensive study abroad experience to learn about the effects of years of political and religious conflict in Northern Ireland (known as “The Troubles”) on individuals, families, groups and organizations. Students also learn the long-term social and psychological impacts of conflict, including PTSD. (3 hrs. credit)
SOWK 5910/7910 – Conflicts and Long-Term Trauama in Northern Ireland Advanced readings for independent research into the conflicts and long-term trauma in Northern Ireland under the direction of a faculty member. (3 hrs. credit)
Program Itinerary
2020 Initial Travel Program Itinerary Daily plans are subject to change as final itinerary will be determined in consultation with in-country facilitators. *Please note: participants are required to walk 5-7 miles per day.*
May 11: Arrive in Belfast. Program Begins 2pm at designated hotel. Visit Crumlin Gaol, Black Taxi Tour.
May 12: Lectures (political prisoners, community workers, social workers, etc.)
May 13: Lecture and visits to political sites
May 14: Visits to social welfare agencies. Depart on mini-bus to Corrymeela Centre in Ballycastle.
May 15: Workshop on trauma and grief.
May 16: Lectures – conflict model & historical background;
recreational outings on Northern coast.
May 17: Lecture – gender & peacebuilding; national wildlife excursion.
May 18: Lecture – play therapy & trauma; evaluation session. Depart on mini-bus to Londonderry/Derry.
May 19: Lectures and visits to political sites in Derry
May 20: Lectures and visits to political sites in Derry. Discussion and Evaluation Meeting after dinner.
May 21: Program Ends (breakfast provided).Students and faculty depart.
Program Costs
Program Deposit: $300 due upon admission
Program fee: approximately $1,400 (this does not include the deposit nor airfare)
Application Deadline
Feb. 15, 2020****Rolling admission. Applicants will be immediately notified of acceptance into this program and be able to complete post-decision materials prior to the term’s application deadline.