Maynooth University

The MA in Adult and Community Education at Maynooth University supports learners to connect educational practice with research, theory, and social justice. You will critically examine adult learning and community development and develop the skills needed to complete a research thesis. Duration: Typically 1 year full-time or 2 years part-time (confirm with the programme) Credits: 90 ECTS (confirm with the programme) Delivery: On-campus (confirm campus location and schedule) Programme type: Master’s (MA) Language of instruction: English Start dates: September (confirm intake dates) Application deadlines: Check Maynooth University postgraduate deadlines for the relevant intake Tuition fees: Fees vary by applicant category—check the Maynooth University fee schedule Thesis requirement: Yes—thesis/research completion is a core component The MA is structured around taught modules and a thesis/research completion stage. Taught modules (indicative): - Advanced Theories in Adult and Community Education - Advanced Gender Studies in Adult and Community Education - Power, Politics and Society: Adult Education in Context - History of Adult and Community Education - Ethical Perspectives on Adult Education Research component: - Thesis and Research Completion (includes developing a research topic, conducting research, and submitting the thesis) Learning support and assessment: - Assessments typically include written assignments and/or module work, plus thesis submission - The thesis topic is discussed during the admissions interview as part of the selection process

Academic requirements

Upper Second Class (2:1) 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.

NFQ Level 8 (2:1)

English requirements

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Other requirements

General requirements

• Applicants must hold a minimum bachelor honours degree at NFQ Level 8 with a minimum of second-class honours, grade 1 (2:1), in a relevant discipline such as the social sciences (e.g., adult education, community work, social care, sociology, political science, economics, psychology, anthropology, education). Alternatively, applicants may be eligible with a 2:1 Postgraduate Diploma in Adult, Community and Further Education or the Higher Diploma in Further Education (NFQ Level 8).

• Selection is based on your application, interview, and references. Interviews typically take place between February and June and include discussion of your proposed research topic. Your personal statement should explain why you are suitable for the programme and outline your research interests.

Documents commonly required

• Academic transcripts and degree certificate (or evidence of completion)
• Curriculum vitae (CV), if applicable
• Personal statement outlining your interests and proposed research direction
• References (as requested in the application)
• English language test results (if required)

Exact document requirements and deadlines can vary by intake—please check the Maynooth University postgraduate application guidance for the programme.

Work Permits

After completing your studies, you may be eligible to apply for a post-study work permission/visa (where available) depending on your nationality and the immigration rules in force at the time you graduate.

Check for any work restrictions

• Post-study work permissions are typically granted for a limited period and may require you to apply within a set timeframe after graduation.
• Eligibility usually depends on completing an eligible programme, meeting minimum study duration requirements, and holding the correct student immigration status while studying.
• Some graduates may be required to secure an offer of employment or meet specific conditions related to the type/level of qualification.
• Rules can differ by country and can change—always confirm the latest requirements with the relevant Irish immigration authority and Maynooth University international student guidance.

For the most accurate information for this programme and your situation, consult the programme and university guidance on work rights for international graduates.