Professional Master of Education (Primary)

Primary Teachers in Demand: A Career Pathway with Real Impact and Strong Employment Prospects

Across Ireland, primary schools are facing ongoing challenges in recruiting and replacing qualified teachers — creating strong employment opportunities for graduates considering a move into education.

Recent reporting by the Irish National Teachers’ Organisation (INTO) highlights the scale of this demand. 19% of schools reported being unable to fill vacant teaching posts, while 60% said they had difficulty sourcing substitute cover, pointing to sustained national need for qualified primary teachers. The Greater Dublin region has been particularly impacted, with Dublin recording the highest number of reported vacancies and Wicklow and Kildare among the next most affected counties.

For graduates seeking a career that combines job security with purpose and long-term progression, primary teaching offers a meaningful and people-focused pathway.

A Recognised Route into the Classroom

At Maynooth University, the Professional Master of Education (Primary) provides a recognised route to qualifying as a primary school teacher in Ireland. The programme combines academic study with extensive, supported school placement, ensuring graduates develop both the theoretical foundation and practical classroom experience needed to begin their teaching careers with confidence.

“Our focus is on preparing teachers who are not only academically strong, but who can respond to the realities of today’s classrooms — from inclusive practice to working closely with families and school communities.”

Why Consider a Career in Primary Teaching?

Primary teaching offers more than a clear employment pathway. It is a profession centred on working directly with children at a critical stage of their development, helping to shape early learning, confidence and curiosity.

Graduates entering the sector benefit from:

• Strong national and regional demand for qualified teachers
• Structured school holidays and clear long-term career progression
• Opportunities to work in diverse school settings, including DEIS, Gaelscoileanna and special education environments
• A role that combines professional stability with real community impact

“The placement experience was what confirmed teaching was the right path for me. Being in the classroom, building relationships with pupils and seeing their progress week by week was incredibly rewarding.”
— PME Primary graduate

Who Can Apply?

The programme is open to applicants who hold a Level 8 undergraduate degree in a relevant subject area, including Arts, Social Sciences or Science, and who meet Teaching Council academic requirements for primary teaching. Prospective applicants are encouraged to review eligibility criteria or contact the University’s postgraduate team for guidance before applying.

Applications Now Open

Applications for the Professional Master of Education (Primary) at Maynooth University are currently open.

 Application deadline: 10th April 2026