Expand+The Diploma in Irish Archaeology (Online) is aimed at anyone with an interest in the past, in archaeology, and/or Ireland. It can be enjoyed on several levels – as a general interest undertaking, a social learning experience, or a career-related qua...

Hide-The Diploma in Irish Archaeology (Online) is aimed at anyone with an interest in the past, in archaeology, and/or Ireland. It can be enjoyed on several levels – as a general interest undertaking, a social learning experience, or a career-related qualification. The programme caters for everyone and is enriched by the diversity of our participants. This is the first online Diploma in Irish Archaeology, the only programme dedicated solely to the story of the Irish archaeological past to be delivered wholly online – facilitating participation regardless of geographical location. All are welcome!

Archaeology is the study of the material remains of past human societies. It covers a remarkable span of time and investigates some of the most profoundly important developments of the past. The wide scope of archaeology is one of the features which makes the subject so attractive to professional and amateur alike. This programme explores the archaeology of Ireland, from the arrival of the first peoples in the stone age, right through to late medieval times. Topics covered include the tombs of the Neolithic such as Newgrange, Bronze Age goldwork, the Celtic question, early Christianity, masterpieces such as the Tara Brooch and Book of Kells, the Vikings in Ireland, and the great castles and church buildings of the medieval period.

Expand+Continuous assessment throughout the programme is facilitated by weekly online discussions, and end-of-module written essays.

Applicants are expected to be proficient in the use of computers and the internet.

All applicants, whose first languag...

Hide-Continuous assessment throughout the programme is facilitated by weekly online discussions, and end-of-module written essays.

Applicants are expected to be proficient in the use of computers and the internet.

All applicants, whose first language is not English, or who have not been educated through the medium of the English language during their two most recent years of study, must present one of the following qualifications in the English language: IELTS: 6.5 or TOEFL (IBT): 92. Please see this webpage for further information: https://www.nuigalway.ie/international-students/english.html

Candidates who are 21 years or over on or before January 1 st of year of entry may gain entry to the programme on the basis of mature years. Candidates under 21 years should meet the minimum matriculation requirements as outlined in the Frequently Asked Questions section.

Expand+Further Education
After completing this diploma, options for further study include an undergraduate degree or higher diploma in archaeology (depending on individual circumstances).

Career Opportunities

Past students of the diploma in archaeolo...

Hide-Further Education
After completing this diploma, options for further study include an undergraduate degree or higher diploma in archaeology (depending on individual circumstances).

Career Opportunities

Past students of the diploma in archaeology have taken a number of routes after graduation. Some have entered straight into related employment - joining commercial archaeological companies as excavators, or working in the heritage industry (as guides, in museums, in visitor centres etc.). Others have continued their academic studies, some returning to complete a BA degree, followed by an MA degree, and even PhDs in several instances! For those who had already completed a degree in any area, they completed a Higher Diploma in Archaeology (1 year full-time, or 2 years part-time), before proceeding to postgraduate studies.

Archaeology graduates work in a variety of roles - as excavators, surveyors, researchers, in local and national government, as guides, in museums, in visitor centres, and in third-level institutions. Of course, archaeology now forms part of the history curriculum at secondary-school level, so the diploma also provides useful training for teachers.