The Master of Arts in Serious Crime Investigation is a one-year, full-time programme designed for graduates of the level 9 Postgraduate Diploma in Serious Crime Investigation, accredited by the University of Limerick or an equivalent programme. The degree is ideally suited to members of an Garda Síochána who are looking to capitalize on their existing expertise in the field of modern policing and develop an advanced and integrated understanding of the legal issues which surround serious crime investigation.
Objectives
To allow graduates of the level 9 Postgraduate Diploma in Serious Crime Investigation to capitalise on their existing expertise and develop an advanced and integrated understanding of serious crime investigation;
To enhance the legal analytical skills of students by requiring them to undertake a significant independent research dissertation (15,000 words) on an important aspect of serious crime investigation;
To instruct students in the use of both traditional and technological legal research resources, and to provide them the opportunity of applying those skills in the completion of a substantial original research project;
To provide students with the opportunity and skills for independent legal research and self-directed learning;
To enhance students' career opportunities, including the provision of the knowledge and skills required to advance to doctoral degree studies, if desired.
*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please check with institution
Expected January 2026
University of Limerick
University of Limerick Limerick,
Limerick,
V94 T9PX, Republic of Ireland
Applicants must have achieved a minimum of a second class honours in either the Postgraduate Diploma in Serious Crime Investigation, or in the Graduate Diploma in Criminal Assets Bureau: Proceeds of Crime & Asset Investigation, both which are accredited by the University of Limerick, or an equivalent programme.
Acceptable English Language qualifications include the following:
Matriculation examinations from European countries where English is presented as a subject and an acceptable level is achieved
Irish Leaving Certificate English –Ordinary Level Grade D or above
TOEFL – 580 (paper based) or 90 (internet based)
IELTS – Minimum score of 6.5* with no less than 6 in any one component.
English Test for English and Academic Purposes (ETAPP) – Grade C1
GCE ‘O’ level English Language/GCSE English Language – Grade C or above
Cambridge Assessment English –Certificate of Proficiency in English - Grade C / Certificate in Advanced English Grade C
GCE Examination Boards – Oxford Delegacy of Local Examinations – Grade C / Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate – School Certificate Pass 1-6 / University of London Entrance and School Examinations Council – School Certificate Pass 1-6
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.
“The University of Limerick is an affordable place for students to gain a top-class education which will boost their future career prospects.”