Children's & Young Adult Literature

Students in this programme often have a deep and long-standing fascination with children's and/or young adult literature. They enrol for various reasons. Some do it simply because they have a strong passion for these types of literature, while others see it as a way to advance their careers.



Our graduates have used the programme to further their aspirations as writers, while some have pursued doctoral studies.



The programme accommodates these different motivations and goals by providing a comprehensive course of study on the history and evolution of children's and young adult literature from the 17th to the 21st century. It also introduces students to critical research areas in the field.



The MA in Children's and Young Adult Literature at DCU offers a unique and supportive academic environment with expert faculty, diverse modules, collaborations with Children's Books Ireland, guest lectures by leading academics and writers such as Irish Authors Deirdre Sullivan and Dave Rudden as well as access to special collections of award-winning childrens and young adult texts, making it an excellent choice for those passionate about the subject.



You may also be interested in our MA in Children’s and Young Adult Literature Blog where you can read about our research and events, and all things children’s literature related.

• This programme is open to applicants with an honours primary degree, minimum H2.1 (Level 8 NFQ) in a related subject.

1 year full-time

2 years part-time

Careers

Our programme has empowered a diverse group of graduates who have taken various paths in their careers. Some have used it as a stepping stone to pursue doctoral studies and enter the academic field. Others have leveraged the knowledge and skills gained to excel in roles such as journalists, judges, lecturers, editors, publishers, researchers, and writers.



This programme has been especially valuable for English teachers at both primary and secondary levels, catalysing career advancement. It has also played a similar role for school librarians and those working in public libraries.



Graduates of the programme have made significant contributions to the field of children's literature. They have served as presidents of IBBY Ireland (the Irish division of an international non-profit organisation dedicated to connecting children with books), acted as adjudicators and chairs for the Children's Books Ireland Book of the Year Awards, and have even published their own children's literature.