University College Isle of Man is offering two evening courses in Manx history and heritage this year, beginning on Monday 2nd October.
‘Introduction to the Isle of Man’ runs on Tuesday evenings and provides a comprehensive introduction to Manx history and heritage. It covers a wide range of topics, and is taught by a variety of experts. Subjects including the geology and archaeology of the Island; its social, economic, and political history; its built and natural environments; and its language, literature, music, and folklore. It includes a number of site visits which will take place on Saturdays.
‘We’ve had some fantastic feedback from students on this course’ explains the organiser, Dr Catriona Mackie. ‘Students really appreciate the variety of subjects on offer and the opportunity to learn from the experts.’
Chris Callow took the course in 2015-16 and thoroughly enjoyed it: ‘I would thoroughly recommend the course to anyone with an interest in the Island. The lecturers know their subjects inside out and deliver their material with skill and passion. You find yourself viewing the familiar with new eyes and come to realise how lucky we are to live on an Island with such a rich history.’
‘A History of the Isle of Man: AD 979 to the Present’ takes place on Monday evenings and provides detailed overview of Manx history over the last thousand years. It is taught by Dr Mike Hoy. It covers all main periods and events, and introduces students to the key figures from different eras. Students will explore the sources that are available for the study of Manx history, and will learn how to study some of the relevant documents, from the period of the Vikings through to the present day.
‘This is a fantastic course for anyone who wants to improve their knowledge of Manx history, and to place it into a wider British and European context’, said Dr Mackie. ‘Some students choose to study out of interest, while others study for professional development. Whatever your level of knowledge, you’ll learn something new from studying this course!’
Both of these courses form part of the BA (Hons) History & Heritage at University College Isle of Man. Dr Mackie explained: ‘Our History & Heritage degree is international in its scope, but students have the opportunity to choose these courses about Manx history and heritage as optional modules in their first and second years. We felt that we should open these courses up to the general public so that they too can have the opportunity of learning from some of the Island’s leading experts.’
Registering for the courses is easy – download a part-time registration form from the UCM website, and take it to the main UCM reception (Homefield Road) with your payment. You can also pick up a registration form from reception. Classes are held at Elmwood House (off Glencrutchery Road) from 6pm-8pm. Find out more by visiting http://www.ucm.ac.im/.
Photo - Introduction to the Isle of Man students on a fieldtrip with Dr Andrew Foxon.
