University of Limerick

Overview

Community Research – Pre-Master’s Programme is designed to prepare international students for postgraduate study in Ireland by enhancing their academic English, research methodologies, and study skills. Upon successful completion, students are well-positioned to progress into partner master’s degree programs, contingent upon meeting any additional specific requirements.

• Programme type: Pre-Master’s Programme (PMP)
• Typical duration: 9 months
• Delivery location: OnCampus Ireland / UniHaven College, Maynooth (Ireland)
• Delivery format: In-person (on-campus)
• Language of instruction: English
• Assessment: A combination of formative and summative assessments across various modules

What you'll study

The Pre-Master’s Programme spans one academic year, integrating academic English development with research training and study skills support. Students will engage in a variety of assessments through the following modules:

• Undergraduate Research Dissertation – guided research planning and completion of a dissertation-style project.
• Academic English Language Development – skills in academic reading, writing, and communication tailored for postgraduate study.
• Research and Digital Literacy Skills – focuses on information literacy, research tools, and responsible use of digital resources.
• Personal Development for Employability – professional skills, learning strategies, and reflective practices for career readiness.
• Working in Teams – emphasizes collaboration, communication, and teamwork skills applicable in both academic and professional contexts.
• Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods – foundational knowledge of research design, including approaches to data collection and analysis.

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

Curriculum note: The sequencing of modules and assessment formats may vary by intake—please verify details on the programme website.

Entry requirements

Academic background: Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree equivalent to an Irish NFQ Level 7 from a recognized university in a relevant field. Typically, progression to a master’s programme necessitates a minimum second-class honours standard. Other qualifications and grades may be considered on a case-by-case basis, depending on subject relevance.

GRE/GMAT/GPA: There are no specific GRE, GMAT, or GPA score requirements for this programme.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Community Research – Pre-Master’s Programme are well-equipped to pursue advanced studies and can explore diverse career paths in research, community development, public policy, and various roles requiring strong analytical and communication skills. The program’s focus on practical skills and academic rigor prepares students for successful careers in both local and international contexts.