MA (Culture and Colonialism)

"I did the MACC 2008/2009, after several years working in the private sector, and the return to full-time education was slightly daunting at first. However, I need not have worried. All the professors lecturing on the MACC were very helpful and approachable, we were never told that someone did not have time to assist with a genuine query. I chose the MACC because it is an interdisciplinary course, offering insights into different approaches towards looking at a complex problem. Coming from the discipline of history, I found the cultural theory particularly interesting and challenging, it really opened my mind a lot. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Since then, I have applied for the Higher Diploma in Education, and hope that all the additional knowledge I acquired will help me be the best teacher I can be!"

"Politics, structures of power and imperialism have always fascinated me and the study of colonialism and how it interacts with culture has allowed me to deepen my knowledge of these issues. As well as the historic experience of colonialism the MA in Culture and Colonialism also involved studying postcolonial theory and issues of neo-colonialism and developmentalism that deal directly with the legacy of the colonial process.

The MA in Culture and Colonialism seemed like a natural progression for my studies as it drew deeply on the subjects I had studied as part of my primary degree in arts. Modules based in the disciplines of history and literature allowed me to use the skills and information I had gained from my Bachelor’s degree to further get to grips with the themes of the course. At the same time the MA offered me the exciting opportunity of widening my knowledge base with modules in politics, cultural theory and political economy: disciplines that were entirely new to me. Throughout the year I learned a huge array of new things and, looking back, even now I’m amazed that I could fit so much into a single year.

The quality of teaching for the MA was excellent with a wide range of lecturers from different schools all contributing in a seminar setting. As well as giving the class access to their wealth of experience and knowledge, they were all attentive to our needs and willing to help. This was generally the case throughout the university which has a friendly staff and a vibrant atmosphere for students to both work and socialise. As for Galway itself, much the same can be said for it; an easy and relaxed city it provides an excellent place to live."