It was established to further an understanding of the meaning of the concepts colonialism, imperialism, post-colonialism, and neocolonialism across a range of disciplines. We encourage students to view colonialism in the widest possible contexts, in both historical and contemporary forms, and to consider its significance in relation to the spread of globalisation. Our teaching staff over the years has been drawn from the departments of English, History, Political Science and Sociology, Economics, Spanish, French, German, Italian, and Classics, and is supplemented by Irish and international guest lecturers. Students take six courses spread over two semesters, and complete their degree with the writing of a 15,000 word dissertation.