Maynooth University

Applied Social Studies at Maynooth University supports postgraduate research and professional development in the social sciences. The programme is designed for students who want to investigate real-world social issues using rigorous research methods and critical analysis. • Level: Postgraduate (research degree) • Institution: Maynooth University • Delivery: Research-led study with taught research/professional skills modules (format may vary by intake) • Research proposal: typically 3,000–4,000 words (submitted in writing) • Entry requirement (academic): Upper Second Class (2.1) in an undergraduate degree (or equivalent) • English language: IELTS 6.5 (or equivalent alternatives accepted) • Application process: informal approach to the Department is encouraged to discuss fit and supervision • Start dates: check the programme website for the current intake schedule • Credits/ECTS and tuition fees: confirm on the programme website for the latest details

Programme Structure

Core learning is delivered through a combination of research training and professional development modules, alongside independent thesis work.

• The Craft and Logics of Social Research
• Innovation and Research Commercialisation
• Professional Skills – Thesis Completion and Career Development
• Professional Development & Employability
• Creative Thinking & Problem Solving
• Grant Management and Compliance
• Social Policy and the Social Professions – Critical Perspectives

Research component: You will develop and submit a research proposal (typically 3,000–4,000 words) and complete a thesis/research project under appropriate supervision. The Department will assess the suitability of your topic and the availability of a supervisor before final confirmation.

Curriculum note: Module availability and sequencing can vary by intake and supervisory arrangements. Please consult the programme website for the most up-to-date curriculum plan.

Academic requirements

GPA Your GPA, or Grade Point Average, is a number that indicates how well or how high you scored in your courses on average. Usually a GPA scales between 1.0 and 4.0, however different countries and universities can have different grading systems.

Upper Second Class

English requirements

Duolingo English Test The Duolingo English Test is a convenient, fast, and affordable English proficiency test trusted by top universities around the world. Take it online in just one hour—anywhere, any time. Scores are reported out of 160 in 5 point increments.

120

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TOEFL^® IBT TOEFL iBT® is accepted by more than 13,000 universities and other institutions in over 160 countries. The test can be taken at a test center or at home. The test measures your English-language abilities in an academic setting. The score refers to the total score of 4 subjects (writing, listening, speaking, and reading), each subject has a range of 0 - 30.

OR

90

OR

4.5

New TOEFL iBT 1-6 score (CEFR-aligned). Equivalent to the 0-120 score.

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English) is a language test that enables students to demonstrate their writing, listening, speaking, and reading skills when applying to study in English. The score refers to a total score which ranges between 10 and 90.

63

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IELTS The International English Language Test System (IELTS) tests your English-language proficiency on a scale of 1 – 9. The score refers to the combined average score of 4 subjects (writing, listening, speaking, and reading).

6.5

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Other requirements

General requirements

• Minimum 2.1 (Upper Second Class) in an undergraduate degree (or an equivalent qualification). Admission is also subject to Departmental approval of your application and proposal, including confirmation that appropriate supervision is available.
• Applicants must hold a recognised primary degree that is considered equivalent to an Irish university primary degree level.
• Research proposal: applicants are expected to submit a written research proposal (typically 3,000–4,000 words) and discuss the suitability of the topic with the Department.

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Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items like Additional medical costs, Repatriation, Liability etc. Make sure your student insurance covers your needs.

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Starting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.

Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at Maynooth University and/or in Ireland, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

Make sure you meet all requirements

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Work Permits

Collecting Work Permit information

Check for any work restrictions

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Post-study work (Ireland): International graduates may be eligible to apply for a post-study work permission after completing their programme, subject to meeting the Irish immigration requirements in force at the time of application.

• Eligibility: you must have successfully completed your degree at an approved Irish higher education institution and hold the required immigration status at the time of application.
• Duration: the permitted stay length depends on the programme level and the rules applicable to your graduation date. Check the latest guidance from the Irish immigration authorities.
• Conditions: you may be required to apply within a specified timeframe after graduation and may need to provide evidence of completion (e.g., official confirmation/transcript).
• Important: work permission rules can change. Always verify current eligibility and timelines with the Irish Department of Justice / immigration guidance and your university’s international office.