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M.ED. IN ADULT AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION
This 1-year full-time master's programme is ideal for people seeking ways of understanding the connections between theoretical frameworks and the assumptions that underpin their work practices.
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- Qualification
- Master Of Education Degree
- CAO/MU Apply code
- MHA92
- Award Type and NFQ level
- TAUGHT MASTERS (9)
- Study Mode
- Full time
- Closing Date
- 14 August 2026
Overview
The MEd in Adult and Community Education is particularly suited to those who are seeking ways of understanding the connections between theoretical frameworks and the assumptions that underpin their work practices. This programme will provide the opportunity for participants to:
- critically reflect on their experience in the field
- develop the public debate on social justice and critical citizenship
- have a thorough grounding and an understanding of the background to and influences on research in adult and community education.
Course structure
Duration: 1 year full-time
Location: Dept. of Adult and Community Education, School of Education, North Campus
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 MEd is particularly suited to those who are seeking theoretical frameworks from which to explore and question the assumptions that underpin their work practices and critical reflection.
Entry Requirements
Applicants must hold a minimum of a bachelor honours degree (NFQ Level 8) with a minimum of second-class honours, grade 1 (2:1) (NFQ Level 8) degree in one of the Social Sciences (Adult Education, Community Work, Social Care, Sociology, Political Science, Economics, Psychology, Anthropology, Education etc.) or have a minimum grade of a grade 1 (2:1) (NFQ Level 8) Postgraduate Diploma in Adult, Community and Further Education/the Higher Diploma in Further Education.
Selection will be based on application, interview and references. Interviews will take place between February and June. The interview will include a discussion of the candidate's proposed research topic. Applicants personal statement needs to indicate why they feel they are suitable and what their research interests are.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) applicants need to have at least 3 years experience.
Please note: the University may waive these entry conditions in certain cases.
Minimum English language requirements:
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. The requirements specified are applicable for both EU and international applicants.
Maynooth University's TOEFL code is 8850
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
- Personal Statement (minimum 500 words on why you would like to study your chosen programme. Applicants personal statement needs to indicate why they feel they are suitable and what their research interests are)
- An academic reference (Current Maynooth University students will only need to provide the name and contact information of their reference)
- A professional reference (Current Maynooth University students will only need to provide the name and contact information of their reference)
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 click here. Please be advised criteria may differ for EU and Non-EU applicants.