DCU Business School John Thompson Scholarship 2026 , Ireland (Full Tuition Fee)

The John Thompson Scholarship is a prestigious, fully funded opportunity offered by DCU Business School in partnership with the family and friends of the late John Thompson, one of Ireland’s most influential newspaper executives. Established in 2008, the scholarship honors Thompson’s legacy of innovation in journalism, publishing, and media management, supporting talented students pursuing a full-time MSc in Digital Marketing at Dublin City University (DCU).

This award covers full tuition fees for one outstanding EU or non-EU student each year. With applications closing on 30 July, the scholarship is highly competitive and ideal for students who are passionate about digital marketing, media, journalism, and strategic communication.

About the John Thompson Scholarship

The scholarship commemorates John Thompson’s significant contribution to journalism and media in Ireland. Over a career spanning nearly 30 years, he played a leading role in launching and growing several successful Irish publications—including U Magazine, The Sunday World, and The Irish Farmers Journal.

He later served as:

Chief Executive of Associated Newspapers Ireland
Publisher of the Irish Daily Mail and Irish Mail on Sunday
Managing Director of Independent Star Limited
Publisher of the Irish Daily Star

Thompson believed strongly in the synergy between journalism and marketing, particularly in how both fields drive consumer engagement. This scholarship continues that mission by encouraging students from business, journalism, and diverse academic backgrounds to advance their skills in digital marketing integrated with online media and journalism.

Degree Level

This scholarship supports:

Postgraduate (Master’s) Studies

Specifically:

MSc in Digital Marketing (Full-Time) at DCU Business School.

Available Subjects

To qualify, applicants must be pursuing:

Digital Marketing
A discipline connected with online media, marketing, communication, or journalism

The scholarship is ideal for graduates of:

Business
Journalism
Media Studies
Marketing
Communication
Related fields

Benefits

The John Thompson Scholarship provides:

Full tuition fee coverage for the MSc in Digital Marketing
Access to DCU’s world-class digital marketing faculty
Exposure to media and journalism industry insights
A competitive academic and professional advantage
Support for students from diverse academic backgrounds

Please note: Students cannot hold more than one DCU Business School scholarship at the same time.

Eligible Nationalities

This scholarship is open to international students of all nationalities.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

Have applied for DCU’s full-time MSc in Digital Marketing
Meet the academic entry requirements for the program
Demonstrate motivation and suitability for the scholarship
Submit all required documents before the deadline
Show strong interest in digital marketing, media, or online journalism
Hold or be expecting a final undergraduate degree award

Application Procedure

Step 1: Apply to the MSc Digital Marketing Program

Before applying for the scholarship, students must first submit their program application to DCU Business School.
If applicants face any issues, they are encouraged to contact the DCU Global Office via: https://www.dcu.ie/global

Step 2: Receive an Offer from DCU

Only students who receive a formal offer to join the MSc Digital Marketing program are eligible to apply for the scholarship.

Step 3: Prepare Scholarship Documents

Applicants must prepare the following:

CV
Statement of motivation and suitability (maximum 250 words)
Academic transcript or proof of final degree award

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Send all required documents via email to:

Group Head for Marketing, DCU Business School
Email: businessscholarships@dcu.ie

Important Notes

The scholarship covers full fees only.
Applicants may not combine this award with any other DCU Business School scholarship.
Applications close on 30 July each year.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who can apply for the John Thompson Scholarship?

Any EU or non-EU applicant who has applied for the full-time MSc in Digital Marketing at DCU Business School and received an offer is eligible to apply.

What does the John Thompson Scholarship cover?

The scholarship provides full tuition fee coverage for one student enrolled in DCU’s MSc in Digital Marketing program.

How do I apply for the John Thompson Scholarship?

First apply to the MSc Digital Marketing program. After receiving an offer, submit a CV, 250-word motivation statement, and academic transcript to businessscholarships@dcu.ie before the 30 July deadline.