Trinity College Dublin has launched a new Irish studies degree programme which draws on disciplines as diverse as Irish, English, history of art, genetics and film and drama studies.
Students will study the main periods of Irish history and will familiarise themselves with key concepts in cultural history and theory.
The course will also focus on subjects such as an introduction to genetics and DNA testing which will include genetic research of population patterns and genealogies in prehistoric and medieval Ireland.
The course is a collaboration of lecturers from the departments of History, English, Irish, Geography, History of Art, Politics, Linguistics, Film and Drama Studies and Genetics.
In a new departure in how Irish Studies are taught at university, students will be able to study Irish from beginner's level and the programme will allow students to study Irish literature in the Irish and English languages.
Commenting on the significance of the new degree course, TCD Provost, Dr John Hegarty, stated at the launch: "As Ireland develops further and embraces greater innovation and excellence in education and society at large, it is appropriate that a unique interdisciplinary degree course is now available that will explore and question our literature, language, history and culture in a way that has never before been possible, either at home or abroad.
"The Irish studies degree will contribute to the continuing development, growth and maturity of Ireland and Irish society. It represents a celebration of our Irishness, and also of our contribution to global diversity and the languages, histories, literatures and cultures of the modern world," he concluded.
There will be 26 places available - 20 for students from the European Union and six for students outside of the EU.