The School of Law and Government at DCU enjoys an excellent reputation as a pioneer in the study of international governance. The School is internationally recognised not only for the calibre of its academic staff, but also for the challenging and innovative learning environment that it provides for its students. The school offers three one-year full-time MA degrees, one two-year part-time MA degree and one two-year part-time/mixed mode MA degree.

One-year Full-time Programmes

• MA in Development Click here to view a short 3 minute video on the MA in Development
• MA in International Relations
• MA in International Security and Conflict Studies

Two-year Part-time Programme

• MA in International Relations

Two-year Part-time/Mixed Mode Programme

• MA in Development Click here to view a short 3 minute video on the MA in Development

Overview of Programmes

MA in Development (PAC code DC635)

As development issues come increasingly to the fore, this programme aims to provide students with a detailed understanding of the causes of underdevelopment and different policy responses. Students will be introduced to various perspectives on development, including those of governments of developing states, those of donor countries and agencies, and those of development NGOs and major international institutions. Further Information

MA in International Relations (PAC code DC608 (full-time), DC609 (part-time))

Contemporary international relations impacts on our lives in many ways, particularly in the realms of international politics, human rights, the economy, communications and trade. This degree offers a broad interdisciplinary introduction to international relations and these associated areas. Students on this programme will have the opportunity to explore the concepts, forces and processes underpinning international relations, looking at the role of international organisations and powerful states, legal frameworks, foreign policy, and the international political economy. Further Information

MA in International Security and Conflict Studies (PAC code DC629)

There are no longer clear distinctions between regional or domestic civil conflicts and issues of global security. Most conflicts have an international dimension and global insecurity has local as well as international causes. Students on this programme will explore issues of ‘international terrorism’, the causes of conflict, the role of powerful states and the broader international community, the changing role of peace-keeping, European security and conflict resolution processes. Further Information

MA in Development (PAC Code DC636, part-time/mixed mode)

This degree programme aims to foster in students an understanding of development issues, looking at different approaches to the causes of underdevelopment and policy responses. This is a two-year, part-time programme, held over four weekends and five days during the summer each year, and can be taken to Certificate, Diploma or Masters level. Students choose an optional specialism in Development Education or Development Policy. Further Information

Student profile

Our students come not only from Ireland and Europe, but from all corners of the globe; from China to Nigeria and the United States. Many come directly from undergraduate studies. Our programme options provide such students with the opportunity to obtain a focused postgraduate degree. Others, such as members of NGOs or teachers, having worked for some years already in the field, choose one of our postgraduate programmes to help further their professional development. Our experience suggests that all of our postgraduate programmes are suitable for students from a wide range of disciplinary backgrounds, and a typical class will include those who have studied subjects as diverse as politics, law, languages, history, business, science, etc.

Career prospects

Graduates from these programmes work for development agencies such as Trócaire, Goal, Amnesty International, Concern and Oxfam. Our graduates also work in a variety of government departments, including the Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of An Taoiseach, Department of Justice and various European Union departments. Many also work for major multinational organisations, financial services companies, in the media and in international business.

Entry requirements

Applicants will normally have an honours primary degree or equivalent from any discipline. Appropriate combinations of professional qualifications and relevant work experience may be accepted as equivalent to an honours degree, in accordance with the relevant regulations of Dublin City University.

Application details

To apply for any of these programmes, visit the central Postgraduate Applications Centre at www.pac.ie to complete an online application.

MA Information Booklet