Admissions are open to graduates (and graduands) with an upper second class degree in a non-law subject or in which law was not a minor. These are the minimum entry requirements – additional criteria may be requested .

Applications for the programme will be made through the University’s on-line application system. Applications are assessed on a rolling basis, early application is advised as the course is frequently over subscribed.

Please note: In the event that you are offered a place on one of our programmes, accepting a place is a two part process; as well as submitting an online acceptance, you must also pay a non-refundable deposit. The normal deposit is €500. Your deposit must be received within 15 working days of the date of your offer letter.

International Applicants and students

Students/Applicants requiring information from an International perspective may visit the website https://www.ucd.ie/global/ for information regarding our campus, location of UCD and visa information. Applicants may visit the UCD Fees Website for full information on fees and fee payment methods.

Letter of recommendation

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. Any exceptions are also listed on this webpage. https://tinyurl.com/2ae2ffax

The following entry routes are available:

Masters Common Law FT (B209)
Duration 2 Years
Attend Full Time
Deadline Rolling*

* Courses will remain open until such time as all places have been filled, therefore early application is advised

Commencing September 2025

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.

The Masters in Common Law offers you the relevant recognitions as part of the process of becoming a barrister or solicitor in Ireland. The depth of legal knowledge provided also offers graduates the possibility to pursue careers as in-house counsel in the commercial world.

This degree is an excellent foundation for individuals wishing to qualify as solicitors in Ireland. Full details of the required Law Society Exams (FE-1) required to achieve this qualification are available on the society's website.

The Honorable Society of King’s Inns is the Irish ‘Inn of Court’, training and admitting legal professionals who wish to be awarded the degree of Barrister–at–Law necessary to be called to the Bar by the Chief Justice of Ireland. In order to be accepted by Kings Inn's, it is essential to have studied an approved degree. The UCD Masters in Common Law is one of the Kings Inn’s approved degrees and offers graduates a pathway on the route to qualification as a barrister.

Masters in Common Law students are encouraged to attend the many careers events that take place on campus throughout the year. In particular, the UCD Law Fair in October offers an unrivalled opportunity to engage with future employers, including domestic and international law firms and other employers such as the Department of Foreign Affairs.