Applicants must hold a minimum of a bachelor's degree (NFQ Level 8) (or equivalent) with a minimum of a second-class honours, grade 2 (2:2) in law or a cognate discipline in the humanities, or social/political sciences (including but not limited to business, finance, economics, international relations, sociology, etc).

Applicants who do not hold a primary degree but have relevant experience may apply via Maynooth University's Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process for Non-Standard Entrants. Eligible candidates may be invited to interview. Please click here.

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. For information about English language tests accepted and required scores, please see here. Please be advised criteria may differ for EU and Non-EU applicants.
Maynooth University's TOEFL code is 8850

Closing Date : 14 August 2026

Commences: September

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.

Investigative

The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.

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.