Medieval Irish - Research

The aim of this programme is to provide students with a professional training in advanced academic research in early Irish literature, language and history, to deepen their knowledge in specific areas of these, and to endow them with the research skills appropriate to work in this field.



As part of a Structured PhD Programme, students will take 15 credits in generic skills and 15 credits in subject-specific, advanced-level modules, particularly in the language and literature of early Ireland and manuscript reading and textual editing. The aim of the programme is to write a major thesis on a topic approved by the Head of Department, under the supervision of a designated supervisor.

A student beginning a PhD in Medieval Irish will normally have at least a 2:1 at MA level in a relevant discipline; a good knowledge of Old Irish is desirable but not essential. Applicants must have a recognised primary degree which is considered equivalent to Irish university primary degree level.



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

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

4 years Full-time, 6 years Part-time.

In general, there are two levels of fees payable. EU students from EU countries including Ireland pay a subsidised level of fees for both taught courses and research programmes. Tuition fees for students from outside the EU are not subsidised and are thus somewhat higher than for EU students.

Commences September (or other agreed time)

Successful completion of these programmes will equip the student for further academic work and for employment in heritage, libraries and related institutions. A completed PhD is the necessary requirement for and gateway to advanced academic work, in teaching and in research

Research Interests

Research interests include early Irish language, philology and literature, Ancient Celtic languages, comparative Celtic linguistics, intellectual, cultural and religious history of medieval Britain and Ireland.