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MA IRISH AND LOCAL HISTORY
- Qualification
- Master Of Arts Degree
- CAO/MU Apply code
- MHP75
- Award Type and NFQ level
- TAUGHT MASTERS (9)
- Study Mode
- Part time
- Closing Date
- 14 August 2026
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: 2 years part time
Course Duration: 1 year full-time or 2 years part-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.
Year 1
Year 2
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's degree (NFQ Level 8) (or equivalent) with a minimum of a second-class honours, grade 2 (2:2) 55% in History. Other candidates will be considered on a case by case basis.
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. Please be advised criteria may differ for EU and Non-EU applicants.
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 upload the below documentation to your application prior to submission to avoid delays in application assessment:
• Full academic transcripts for all semesters/ years completed to date
• Graduation Certificate if you have graduated/conferred
• A copy of your passport
• Up to date CV
• Personal Statement (minimum 500 words on why you would like to study your chosen programme)