Candidates must hold at least a Second Class Honours Level 8 primary degree in a related subject area.

Related subject areas are literature studies (within any language), cultural studies, film studies, comparative literature. Exceptions can be made if students don’t have a primary degree in those areas but have successfully taken modules in these areas as part of a different degree, or have professional experience adjacent to these areas (for example in publishing, teaching, or translation).

Applications must be completed online at: https://nuigalway.elluciancrmrecruit.com/Apply/Account/Login.

An application requires a registration fee of €35. You will be asked to upload proof of identification, academic transcripts, a personal statement, an academic reference and documentation to fulfil the English requirement (where English is not your first language).

Next start date September 2026

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.

Creative

Creative people are drawn to careers and activities that enable them to take responsibility for the design, layout or sensory impact of something (visual, auditory etc). They may be atrracted to the traditional artistic pursuits such as painting, sculpture, singing, or music. Or they may show more interest in design activities, such as architecture, animation, or craft areas, such as pottery and ceramics.

Creative people use their personal understanding of people and the world they live in to guide their work. Creative people like to work in unstructured workplaces, enjoy taking risks and prefer a minimum of routine.

The MA in International Contemporary Literatures and Media provides a strong foundation for a variety of career paths. For those interested in further academic study, it serves as an excellent gateway our own PhD in International Cultural Studies.

Graduates also thrive beyond academia. Our alumni are currently making their mark in publishing, teaching, and research, as well as in roles with multinational companies, international offices at universities, cultural organisations, NGOs, and media industries - all positions that benefit from the programme’s emphasis on intercultural awareness, critical thinking, and adaptability. The skills you gain are equally relevant to careers in communications, cultural consultancy, arts administration, and global project management, reflecting the truly versatile and international perspective this MA offers.