This programme enables students to examine and research the rich subject area of Irish history from the earliest times to the present day, and to assess the major events which led to the emergence of modern Ireland.
Compulsory modules provide students with an in-depth knowledge of the sources and resources at their disposal to undertake a piece of detailed research, and foster their ability to assess and understand the major debates and controversies that have engaged historians in writing Irish history.
In addition, students can choose from a range of specialist modules, exploring key issues and debates associated with their chosen fields (Irish social, political, military or economic history; historic houses and landed estates; local history, etc.).
Students also have an opportunity to complete a minor thesis in their chosen field.
Career Options
A taught masters degree in Irish History provides a good basis for pursuing a career in education, journalism, the civil service, academia, research and arts administration. Many people go on to pursue careers or further education in the arts and heritage sector in galleries, libraries, museums, archives and cultural institutions. This qualification can also be of use in diplomatic service, politics, law, public relations, public administration among other options.
Many graduates have used their experience of conducting independent research to engage in further postgraduate research and have enrolled in M.Litt and PhD programmes in Maynooth University and elsewhere.
*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please check with institution
Expected July 2025
More details
Start date
Expected September 2025
Maynooth University
Maynooth University, Maynooth,
MAYNOOTH,
Kildare,
W23 F2H6, Leinster, Republic of Ireland
Students who have an honours degree with a 1:1, a 2.(i) or high 2.(ii) grade in History before the programme begins will be offered a place. Other applications will be considered depending on available spaces. Applicants must have a recognised primary degree which is considered equivalent to Irish university primary degree level.
IELTS - 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in each band; TOEFL internet-based test iBT: 90 with no less than 21 in writing and at least 19 in all other sections; Pearson Test of English - 63 with no less than 59 for each item in the Communicative Skills section; Duolingo English Test (DET) - 120 with no less than 110 in literacy, conversation, and comprehension subscores and no less than 95 in production. (This lower production subscore applies to non-EU applicants only), Cambridge Proficiency Cert. - 176+ on Cambridge English scale with no less than 169 in each skill and use of English. Proficiency Certificate, Grade C or better (CEFR Level C1 or C2); Cambridge Advanced Cert. - 176+ on Cambridge English scale with no less than 169 in each skill and use of English Advanced Certificate, Grade C or better (CEFR Level C1 or C2); ETAPP - C1 or better (CEFR Level C1 or C2); Oxford Test of English - 140 with no less than 125 in each skill; Trinity College London ISE - ISE III with at least merit in each skill category.
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.
Maynooth is an internationally esteemed ‘young’ university with a rich heritage, offering an excellent student learning experience.
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