International Studies

This one calendar year fulltime programme of study is intended for recent graduates and graduates with professional experience. The course is designed to attract able and ambitious candidates who wish to obtain a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of contemporary problems in the international environment.

Key Fact
The MA in International Studies is one of the longest running programmes of its kind in Ireland and has been in operation at the University for nearly 30 years.

Autumn Semester
• Graduate Seminar in International Relations
• Graduate Research Methods
• One elective module from the list below

Spring Semester
• Graduate Seminar in
International Co-operation and Conflict; Research Methods (progressing dissertation)
• Two elective modules from the list below

Summer Semester
• Dissertation

Electives
Graduate Seminar in Development - Graduate Seminar in Institutions and Policies of the European Union

Graduate Seminar in Contemporary Political Theory - Multilevel Governance: Concepts and Practice

Conflict Analysis - Graduate Seminar in Comparative Politics -Graduate Seminar in Peacebuilding

Graduate Seminar in European Governance
Global Transformation and Exclusion
External Relations of the European Union
Russian and Post Soviet Politics
Foreign Aid and Development
Development Practice and Programme Management
Global Justice; Representative Democracy in Europe
International Political Economy.

Field Trip: Optional multi-day study trip to Brussels during the spring semester, including seminar discussions with practitioners and trip to Brussels or Geneva during the spring semester.

A primary degree in a relevant discipline (e.g. economics, history, geography, political science, sociology, European studies, law), with a minimum result of a second honours, or an approved qualification (Primary degree: Level 8 - National Qualifications Authority of Ireland).

English Language Requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of either prior successful completion of a degree qualification taught through the medium of English or meet one of the criteria below (no longer than two years prior to application):

Acceptable English Language qualifications include the following:

•Matriculation examinations from European countries where English is presented as a subject and an acceptable level is achieved

•Irish Leaving Certificate English –Ordinary Level Grade D or above

•TOEFL – 580 (paper based) or 90 (internet based)

•IELTS – Minimum score of 6.5* with no less than 6 in any one component.

•English Test for English and Academic Purposes (ETAPP) – Grade C1

•GCE 'O' level English Language/GCSE English Language – Grade C or above

•Cambridge Assessment English –Certificate of Proficiency in English - Grade C / Certificate in Advanced English Grade B

•GCE Examination Boards – Oxford Delegacy of Local Examinations – Grade C / Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate – School Certificate Pass 1-6 / University of London Entrance and School Examinations Council – School Certificate Pass 1-6

Results in examinations other than those listed above may also be accepted as meeting our English language requirements. Contact the International Education Division for advice.

What to Include with your Application

Qualification transcripts and certificates

A copy of your birth certificate or passport

If your qualifications have been obtained in a country where English is an official language this will suffice

If this is not available, the following additional documents must be provided:

• English translation of your qualification(s)/transcripts
AND
• English language competency certificate

1 year full-time