Research-focused postgraduate degrees in Art History and in Cultural Policy & Arts Management at University College Dublin (UCD). Choose an MLitt (typically 2 years) or a PhD (typically 3–4 years full-time) and work with academic supervisors on an approved research topic.
• Award levels: MLitt and PhD (research degrees)
• Typical duration: MLitt ~2 years; PhD ~3–4 years full-time (longer if part-time)
• Delivery: Research-based study with supervision (full-time or part-time options)
• Credits: Research degrees are thesis-led; taught modules may be required depending on your route and year of entry
• Language of instruction: English
• Tuition fees: Vary by student category and programme details—check the latest UCD fee schedule for your status
• Application process: Includes contacting a potential supervisor and submitting an online application
• Start dates: Typically aligned with the academic year (confirm the next intake date for your route)
• Entry pathway: Art History and Cultural Policy / Arts Management research topics
Programme Structure
Research-led study with academic supervision. Your programme is centred on developing and completing an approved thesis based on your research proposal.
Core academic development (typical taught/research training elements)
- Organisational Behaviour
- Emotion in Organisations
- Management within the Arts and Cultural Sector
- Architectural History around the World since 1600
- History & Visual Culture
Thesis requirements
- MLitt: completion of a thesis based on your approved research topic.
- PhD: completion of a thesis that makes an original contribution to knowledge, following UCD examination procedures.
- Progress is supported through supervision meetings and research milestones agreed with your supervisory team.
Supervision and topic approval
- Before applying, you are expected to identify a supervisor whose research interests align with your topic.
- Your research proposal is developed and refined for approval as part of the application process.
Academic requirements
Entry is based on your academic background and the fit between your proposed research topic and the School’s expertise. Specific GPA/grade thresholds and standardised tests (e.g., GRE/GMAT) are not listed as universal requirements for this programme.
English requirements
- Duolingo English Test: minimum 120 (out of 160)
- TOEFL iBT: minimum 90
- Oxford Test of English (OTE): minimum 140
If you have previously studied in English, you may be eligible for alternative evidence—check UCD’s requirements for your specific circumstances.
Other requirements
General requirements
- Contact a member of staff whose research interests align with your proposed topic. Informal enquiries are encouraged.
- With supervisor approval, develop a clear, focused research proposal. This proposal supports your online application.
- Prepare supporting documents typically required for postgraduate research applications (e.g., academic transcripts, CV, and a statement outlining your research interests and fit).
Post-study work permit (Ireland)
After completing your degree in Ireland, you may be eligible to apply for a post-study work permission, subject to meeting the Irish immigration rules in force at the time of application.
- Eligibility: You must have successfully completed your programme and hold the appropriate immigration permission at the time you apply.
- Duration: The length of the permission depends on the programme level and the rules applicable to your qualification at the time you graduate.
- Timing: Applications are typically made after graduation and within the permitted window set by the Irish authorities.
- Conditions: You must comply with all visa/immigration conditions and provide required documentation (e.g., proof of completion and identity documents).
Important: Immigration rules can change. Always check the latest guidance from the Irish Department of Justice and/or your university’s international student office before applying.