BUS 390A: The Culture and Business of Ireland

Cycling in Galway

(4 credits)

4 weeks in Ireland

Prof. Roger Dean

Twenty-five years ago Ireland was regarded as the “poorest of the rich nations.”  Then its economy grew to one of the richest and strongest in the world. During these Celtic Tiger years, Ireland benefited from partnerships with government, business, and labor unions, and received significant direct foreign investments. However, at the end of 2008, Ireland encountered a severe banking and real estate crisis. With assistance from the European Central Bank, Ireland has recovered from the recession and is an attractive location for foreign investment. This course has two primary objectives:

  • To immerse students into the culture (history, literature, theater, religion, social norms) of Ireland via lectures and field trips to sites of historic and cultural significance. The course will conclude with a medieval banquet and traditional Irish entertainment at an historic castle.
  • To study the economy, management practices and business climate of modern Ireland including its role in the European Union via lectures, meetings with business leaders, and visits to national and international businesses.

We will be based in Galway, Ireland. Classes will be held on the campus of the National University of Ireland, Galway, with field trips to businesses and historical sites in County Galway, County Clare and Dublin City.

Note: There are no activities on the trip that require unusual, rigorous physical exertion for completion of the required course components.

Program Fee (paid to the University): $3,600. This fee includes accommodation in serviced apartments, lunches on class days, some dinners, guest lectures and field trips..

Estimated Additional Costs: Airfare to Shannon or Dublin Ireland -  $1,040; Coach fare, Shannon or Dublin airport to Galway - $60; Miscellaneous/Personal spending money $900.

Please note that program cost could change slightly if currency exchange rates fluctuate or there is a necessary and unanticipated change in itinerary.

For further information, please e-mail Prof. Roger Dean at deanr@wlu.edu.