Undergraduate degree (2.2 or higher) in a development related discipline (e.g. Agricultural Science, Anthropology, Economics, Education, Engineering, Geography, Health-related discipline, Nutrition, Rural Development, Sociology or other Social Science etc) or a recognised international equivalent. Those with a professional background in work related to international development are particularly welcome to apply. In exceptional cases, applicants without a primary degree may be considered on the strength of their professional work experience, other qualifications and completion of a qualifying essay.

Minimum English language requirements:
Applicants for whom English is not their first language are required to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study. The requirements specified are applicable for both EU and International applicants.

For information about English language tests accepted and required scores, please see
https://www.maynoothuniversity.ie/study-maynooth/how-apply/english-language-requirements

Maynooth University's TOEFL code is 8850.

MH50N: Closing Date : 30 August 2025 (FT)
MH51N: Closing Date : 31 July 2025 (PT)

Applications are open for the 2025/6 academic year. Visit our online application portal to start your application.
We are here to support you throughout the admissions process.

For queries on your postgraduate course options please contact [email protected]
For queries or support on your application process please contact [email protected]

If you are an international (Non-EU) applicant please contact [email protected]

Commences: September each year.

Part-time students are encouraged to commence at that time, but can enrol throughout the year based on module availability.

This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.

Enterprising

Enterprising people like situations that involve using resources for personal or corporate economic gain. Such people may have an opportunistic frame of mind, and are drawn to commerce, trade and making deals. Some pursue sales and marketing occupations. Many will eventually end up owning their own business, or in management roles in larger organisations. They tend to be very goal-oriented and work best when focused on a target. Some have an entrepreneurial inclination.

Social

The Social person's interests focus on interacting with the people in their environment. In all cases, the Social person enjoys the personal contact with other people in preference to the impersonal dealings with things, data and ideas found in other groups.

Many will seek out positions where there is direct contact with the public in some advisory role, whether a receptionist or a counsellor. Social people are motivated by an interest in different types of people and like diversity in their work environments. Many are drawn towards careers in the caring professions and social welfare area, whilst others prefer teaching and other 'informing' roles.

Graduates of this programme are well placed to pursue a career in development and humanitarian related field either overseas or in Ireland, including both ?hands on? management/field positions overseas, support roles in head offices and/or working in the development education sphere domestically. The course is appropriate for those already working in the sector but looking to ?upskill?, those recently returned from overseas work or volunteer experiences or those contemplating a career in the sector.