University of Limerick

Community Research – Pre-Master’s Programme prepares international students for postgraduate study in Ireland by strengthening academic English, research methods, and study skills.

Successful completion supports progression to partner master’s degrees, subject to meeting any additional programme-specific requirements.

• Programme type: Pre-Master’s Programme (PMP)
• Duration: 1 year
• Delivery location: OnCampus Ireland / UniHaven College, Maynooth (Ireland)
• Delivery format: In-person (on-campus)
• Credits: Not specified in the current record (please check the programme website for the latest details)
• Language of instruction: English
• Progression: Supported progression to partner master’s degrees after successful completion*
• Assessment: Mix of formative and summative assessments across modules
• Application & start dates: Not specified in the current record (please check the programme website for the latest intakes)

*Progression is subject to successful completion and any additional programme-specific entry requirements.

Programme Structure

The PMP is delivered over one academic year and combines academic English development with research training and study-skills support. You will complete a range of assessments across the modules below.

• Undergraduate Research Dissertation – guided research planning and completion of a dissertation-style project.
• Academic English Language Development – academic reading, writing, and communication skills for postgraduate study.
• Research and Digital Literacy Skills – information literacy, research tools, and responsible use of digital resources.
• Personal Development for Employability – professional skills, learning strategies, and reflective development.
• Working in Teams – collaboration, communication, and teamwork practices used in academic and professional settings.
• Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods – foundations of research design and methods, including data collection and analysis approaches.

Capstone/dissertation component: The dissertation module supports you to apply research methods and academic writing skills in a structured project.

Curriculum note: Exact module sequencing and assessment formats can vary by intake—please confirm details on the programme website.

English requirements

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).

5.5

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Post-study work permission (Ireland): If you complete your Pre-Master’s Programme in Ireland, you may be eligible to apply for permission to work after graduation, subject to meeting the Irish immigration rules in force at the time you apply.

• Eligibility depends on your programme and immigration status: You must have completed an eligible course and meet the conditions required by the Irish authorities.
• Duration: The permitted work period is determined by the relevant Irish scheme and your qualification level at the time of application.
• Application timing: You typically apply after completing your studies and receiving the required confirmation of completion.
• Important: Rules can change. Always check the latest guidance from the Irish Department of Justice and/or your institution’s international office before planning your post-study work.

Next steps: Contact the international student support team at your study location for advice on your specific case and the documents you will need.