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MA IRISH AND LOCAL HISTORY
- Qualification
- Master Of Arts Degree
- CAO/MU Apply code
- MHP74
- Award Type and NFQ level
- TAUGHT MASTERS (9)
- Study Mode
- Full time
- Closing Date
- 01 August 2027
Overview
The MA in Irish and Local History offers a unique opportunity to examine and research the rich subject area of Irish history through the lens of local history and heritage, and within national and international contexts.
Local history is an approach to studying the past which deepens our understanding of place, community and culture. This distinctive element roots the MA programme in the landscape of Ireland, fostering community engagement and encourages active participation in the preservation of local heritage. This is the only Irish and Local History MA available in Ireland.
Through a combination of compulsory and optional modules, students are provided with an in-depth knowledge of the sources and resources available to historians of Ireland. In addition, students work with an assigned supervisor to complete a 15,000-20,000 word thesis.
The MA traces the historical development of Ireland from the medieval period to the present - from rural settlements to global networks. Optional modules vary from year to reflecting the research expertise of History staff in Maynooth. They may include medieval Ireland; historic Irish houses and landed estates, art and material culture, Irish migration in early modern Europe, women’s history, social history, religious history; Ireland’s relationship with empire; heritage, conservation and cultural tourism.
The Department of History is a vibrant centre of teaching and research and is the country’s leading centre for the study of local history in Ireland. With some 175 published titles, Maynooth Studies in Local History is an internationally renowned series which provides participants in the programme with an unparalleled resource and an opportunity to publish their own work.
Course structure
Duration: 1 year full time
Disclaimer
The modules below are indicative of the content associated with this course of study.
The modules are subject to change as the curriculum is revised and reviewed annually.
Important: The information on this page is for prospective students, MU current students and staff should use Programme Directory.
Careers after your Masters
The MA in Irish and Local History develops research and communication skills that are valued in a range of employment contexts including:
- teaching and education;
- journalism;
- the civil service;
- the diplomatic service;
- arts administration;
- the heritage sector;
- local government;
- public relations;
- archival and curatorial work;
- further postgraduate research and a career in academia.
Entry Requirements
Applicants must hold a minimum of a Bachelor Honours degree (NFQ Level 8) or equivalent with a high Second-Class Honours, Grade 2 (58%) in History or a cognate discipline. Arts and Social Sciences disciplines may be considered. Applicants who hold a minimum of a lower Second-Class Honours, Grade 2 (2:2) may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
If you do not meet the standard entry requirements then you may be eligible to apply under the University's Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy. Please click here for further information.
Applicants for whom English is not their first language are required to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study. For information about English language tests accepted and required scores, please see here.
How to apply
Applications must be made via the MU Apply portal. Please click here to start your application.
When making your application, please ensure you prepare any documents listed below. You may be required to submit documents in two stages. You will be required to upload and submit the following documents with your application:
- Full academic transcripts for all semesters/ years completed to date
- Graduation Certificate if you have graduated
- A copy of your passport
- Up to date CV
You will be required to upload the following documents after you submit your application:
- An academic reference (Not required for Maynooth University students)
- If English is not your first language, you may be required to upload evidence of English language proficiency. For information please click here.