Course Summary
This MA enables students to work closely with some of the country’s most renowned historians of Ireland to continue the tradition of providing context, insight and originality in the research of Irish history and its communication to a wide audience.
College Link
Career Sectors
This course prepares you for working in the Career Sectors below. Follow the links to get a fuller understanding of the sectors you are preparing for.
Entry Requirements
Minimum of 2.1 or international equivalent in BA History or a cognate subject. Minimum of 2.1 in BA History or a cognate subject.
You must supply details of any third level institutions you have attended and professional qualifications you have attained.
You will be asked to complete a supporting statement outlining your reasons and motivation for wishing to undertake the course. In addition, a CV will be required.
You will be asked to provide research proposal (one or two pages in length) which outlines preliminary topics/ideas for MA dissertation
You will be required to provide an academic writing sample, e.g. an essay written during your degree or dissertation. (there is no word limit)
Two academic references from referees who are in a position to assess your intellectual ability, maturity and motivation. Ideally both academic but they can also be one academic and one professional. You can upload your references to your application itself or if your referees prefer, they can email their letters of reference to [email protected].
Applicants whose first language is not English must also demonstrate English language proficiency of IELTS 6.5 (no band less than 6 in each element), or equivalent.
This course is open to graduates from history, social sciences or cognate disciplines.
You may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), as UCD recognises formal, informal, and/or experiential learning. RPL may be awarded to gain Admission and/or credit exemptions on a programme. Please visit the UCD Registry RPL web page for further information at: https://www.ucd.ie/registry/prospectivestudents/admissions/rpl/ Any exceptions are also listed on this webpage.
Application Details
Online Application.
Who Should Apply?
Full Time option suitable for:
Domestic(EEA) applicants: Yes
International (Non EU) applicants: Yes
Part Time option suitable for:
Domestic(EEA) applicants: Yes
International (Non EEA) applicants: Yes
Z264 Irish History Master of Arts Full-Time
Commencing September 2026
Graduate Taught
Z265 Irish History Master of Arts Part-Time
Commencing September 2026
Graduate Taught
The Student
Career Interests
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.
Linguistic
The Linguistic's interests are usually focused on ideas and information exchange. They tend to like reading a lot, and enjoy discussion about what has been said. Some will want to write about their own ideas and may follow a path towards journalism, story writing or editing. Others will develop skills in other languages, perhaps finding work as a translator or interpreter. Most Linguistic types will enjoy the opportunity to teach or instruct people in a topic they are interested in.
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.
Career Progression
You will be equipped to excel in numerous careers that value critical thinking, writing and time- and project-management skills. Many of our alumni work in international business, foreign affairs and Dublin's vibrant tech sector, where a background in the humanities is particularly valued. Others graduates work in senior positions across a diverse range of industries including education, the media, NGOs and the Arts. Some graduates proceed to PhD studies at Irish, British, and European institutions.
Duration
Z265: 2 years part-time
Delivery: On Campus