French

The taught MA in French is aimed at graduates with a primary honours degree in French, with a minimum of 2.2 or equivalent, who have spent a year in France, or who have equivalent expertise in French language. It is designed for graduates of French who wish to take their study of French language, literature and culture to a deeper level and to enhance their language skills.



A significant proportion of the course is delivered and assessed through French. Core teaching involves modules on writing and presentation skills in French, practical translation and research methodology. The course is designed around the theme of writing and exile, a topic that corresponds to departmental research expertise in the modern and early modern periods. There are elective modules (taught through English) in women's writing, translation studies and conflict studies. The minor thesis (15,000-20,000 words) involves independent research and collaboration with a supervisor on an agreed subject.



It is possible to study modules of particular interest without completing a Masters degree or to exit with a Postgraduate Diploma (Level 9) in French after completing 60 credits of taught modules.

Year 1

• Anthropology

• Applied Linguistics & Intercultural Studies

• Chinese Studies

• Comparative Criminology And Criminal Justice

• Creative Music Technologies

• Creative Writing

• Critical And Creative Media

• English: Literatures Of Engagement

• European History

• French

• Geography

• Geography: Spatial Justice

• International Development

• International Peacebuilding, Security And Development Practice

• Irish History

• Irish Traditional Music

• Leadership, Management & Defence Studies

• Local History

• Medieval Irish Studies

• Military History And Strategic Studies

• Music Composition

• Musicology

• Nua-Ghaeilge

• Performance & Musicology

• Philosophy

• Spanish And Latin American Studies

Candidates normally must have obtained at least a 2nd Class Honours Grade I in their primary degree, or equivalent (e.g. licence ès lettres). It is expected that students will also have spent a minimum of 1 year in a French-speaking environment. Applicants must have a recognised primary degree which is considered equivalent to Irish university primary degree level.



Minimum English language requirements: please visit Maynooth University International Office website for information about English language tests accepted and required scores. The requirements specified are applicable for both EU and non-EU applicants.



Maynooth University’s TOEFL code is 8850

Applications are open for the 2025/6 academic year. Visit our online application portal to start your application.

We are here to support you throughout the admissions process.



For queries on your postgraduate course options please contact pgstudies@mu.ie

For queries or support on your application process please contact pgadmissions@mu.ie



If you are an international (Non-EU) applicant please contact internationaladmissions@mu.ie

1 year full-time, 2 years part-time

Commences September

Recent graduates from the taught MA in French have gone on to work in teaching at all levels, translating, administration involving use of Frenchand English, editing, management and tourism.