Humanities and Social Sciences Postgraduate Courses

MSc in Public Policy student
Level:
Postgraduate
School:
School of Law and Government

The MSc in Public Policy is a fascinating and diverse course where we delve into real-world challenges in public policy. Throughout the programme, we learn how to use practical tools to examine policy issues and propose workable solutions.

During the MSc in Public Policy programme, you'll complete four essential modules and select two additional modules from a set of choices. Afterward, you'll undertake a Policy Analysis Exercise, which is a new approach different from the usual dissertation. This exercise allows you to tackle actual policy issues given by public organisations, and you may even connect it to your current job.

Students working at a desk
Level:
Postgraduate
School:
School of Law and Government

The European Master in Law, Data and Artificial Intelligence (EMILDAI) has been developed as a response to the legal, technical and ethical challenges of digitisation. Businesses and public institutions require experts to legally, ethically and safely process data, in particular in the context of the use of AI systems.

The European Master in Law, Data and Artificial Intelligence (EMILDAI) offers a highly integrated, multilingual and interdisciplinary curriculum, which is articulated into two years (120 ECTS). EMILDAI students will receive a joint master’s degree awarded by the partner universities they attend (joint degree ‘per track’). Students are required to know at least two languages: either English and French or English and Spanish.

MSc in Translation Technology
Level:
Postgraduate
School:
SALIS

This programme provides advanced linguistic and technical training leading to an MA in Translation Studies.

The programme covers various subjects such as Translation Technology, Audiovisual Translation, Research Methods, Translation Theory and Simulated Translation Practice. Students can choose to translate into English, except for those studying Irish, who translate into Irish. Additionally, students can focus on one or two languages (one in each semester): French, German, Irish, Spanish, Chinese and Japanese.

There are additional optional modules available, including Localisation, Community Interpreting and Digital Language and Discourse Methods.

Students chatting around a table
Level:
Postgraduate
School:
School of Law and Government

The MA in International Relations is designed to provide you with the tools to understand our rapidly changing world and the long list of challenges and opportunities we’re facing.

Students have two choices for completing this MA programme. You can finish it in one year if you go full-time, or you can opt for the part-time route, which takes two years.

If you go full-time, you'll take three core modules and a research methodology class in the first semester, with the academic year beginning in September. In the second semester, you'll select three modules on a variety of topics. Additionally, you’ll work on a 15,000-word dissertation due in September.

Students and staff talking around a table
Level:
Postgraduate
School:
School of Communications

The world has gone through significant changes since the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus appeared in late 2019. It has never been more important to have skilled communicators who can explain complex scientific information accurately and in an engaging way.

The programme is designed to be flexible, offering both full-time and part-time options. Full-time students complete the program in one year, while part-time students spread it out over two years.

MSc in Climate Change: Policy, Media and Society header
Level:
Postgraduate
School:
School of Law and Government

The complexity of addressing climate change necessitates a diverse array of responses from various sectors of society.

Climate change has increasingly become a focal point in the realms of politics, policy development, strategic planning, business operations, and civil society. This heightened attention encompasses efforts to reduce our environmental footprint as well as initiatives aimed at fortifying our ability to withstand present and future climate challenges. On the international stage, the Paris Agreement, established during the COP21 summit in December 2015, charts a course toward complete decarbonisation of the global economy during the latter half of this century.

Students chatting around a table
Level:
Postgraduate
School:
School of Communications

The MA in Political Communication programme at DCU offers an interesting mix of academic and professional aspects. It explores how the media, politics and the public interact and how these interactions affect democracy and the distribution of power.

The MA in Political Communication delves into the dynamic and fast-evolving connections between the media, politics and the public. It explores how these interrelationships impact democracy and the distribution of power.

MA in Journalism header
Level:
Postgraduate
School:
School of Communications

DCU's MA in Journalism brings you into the heart of the top-rated journalism and media school in the country, and among the top 200 in the world.

This one-year, full-time programme spans two semesters and includes both taught modules and practical components such as a project or dissertation, along with an internship. The project or dissertation is a substantial journalistic endeavour or a traditional academic dissertation focused on journalism.

Throughout the programme, students receive comprehensive training in online, print, and broadcast journalism. They develop the ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within teams. 

MA in Music, Sound, Culture and Media - 2 students sitting around a desktop computer
Level:
Postgraduate
School:
School of Theology, Philosophy and Music

The MA in Music, Sound, Culture and Media is primarily designed for students wishing to engage in a programme that reflects increasingly interdisciplinary spheres of music, sound and cultural and media production and engagement in contemporary societies.

The MA in Music, Sound, Media and Culture is offered on a full-time (one year) or part-time (two year) basis. As such, the MA in Music, Sound, Culture and Media is accessible to those currently in employment, and to those based outside Dublin and Ireland.

Staff and students looking at a paper
Level:
Postgraduate
School:
School of Communications

DCU’s MSc in Public Relations and Strategic Communications (MScPR) provides a focus on the “why” of communication decisions, rather than merely on the “how” of any communication activities. The programme is designed to provide the skills and ability to think strategically and make effective use of the latest tools in modern communications.

The programme is normally delivered over 54 weeks from mid-September in four parts: 

MSc in Translation Technology header
Level:
Postgraduate
School:
SALIS

Enhance your career prospects and future-proof your skills with an MSc in Translation Technology at DCU, where you'll gain cutting-edge expertise in language technologies, preparing you for high-demand roles in global industries.

The MSc in Translation Technology:

  • Develops a range of professional and linguistic skills appropriate to the translation profession
  • Equips students with the technological tools and skills required in the profession
  • Provides practical training in the use of translation tools and an introduction to computer programming
  • Introduces students to contemporary theoretical issues in Translation Studies
Choral Group Practice
Level:
Postgraduate
School:
School of Theology, Philosophy and Music

On the MA in Choral Studies, students will acquire advanced skills in conducting, composing and ensemble singing while also understanding the relationship between cultural policy, public bodies and enterprise in the arts.

The programme is offered part-time over two years. 

Lectures take place in Drumcondra on Monday evenings and on one Saturday per semester. 

Young woman holding smartphone in front of laptop
Level:
Postgraduate
School:
School of Communications

This MA programme examines the complex impact of social media and the internet in areas as diverse as business, politics and culture. Such knowledge is vital as digital media have become central to communication and information ecosystems, as well as our everyday existence.

Programme Aims

Shows digital cameras used in documentary making
Level:
Postgraduate
School:
School of Communications

This MA combines journalism, filmmaking and multimedia skills to provide a hands-on audio-visual and documentary practice programme.

The course has been uniquely equipped with brand new camera equipment, a dedicated post-production lab as well as access to the school’s professional sound and television studios. What makes this MA programme truly unique is its holistic and practice based  approach to non-fiction storytelling. Students will immerse themselves in a multidisciplinary journey encompassing photography, audio production, and video production. Additionally, they will explore theory through extensive readings and the analysis of key documentary films and projects. 

MA in European Law and Policy
Level:
Postgraduate
School:
School of Law and Government

This programme will not run in September 2025

The EU is an increasingly important policy and legal actor. EU action cuts across virtually every policy field including security, economic policy, human rights and the environment. In response, DCU has established the Masters in European Law and Policy, an innovative programme that will equip graduates with the knowledge and skills to navigate and address those 21st century challenges, from Brexit to climate change and to the post-pandemic economic and social recovery.

The Masters in European Law and Policy is designed to integrate legal and policy analysis and to equip students with complementary knowledge and skills across both fields.  It is designed to ensure students have a comprehensive grounding in both EU law and policy analysis while allowing for some specialisation in either law or policy through optional modules and the dissertation topic. 

MA in Theology and World Religions student
Level:
Postgraduate
School:
School of Theology, Philosophy and Music

The MA in Theology and World Religions is a programme that approaches theology as a critical, academic study of religion and introduces students to a comprehensive examination of the world’s major traditions. 

This programme offers both full-time and part-time study options to suit your schedule and preferences.

MA in Ethics (Corporate Responsibility)
Level:
Postgraduate
School:
School of Theology, Philosophy and Music

The MA in Ethics (Corporate Responsibility) programme equips participants with a solid foundation in theoretical and applied ethics. It also develops the necessary skills to appraise soundly and confidently confront a vast range of important topical ethical challenges.

The MA in Ethics (Corporate Responsibility) specifically expands on the theoretical perspective of business ethics as well as its practical management tools.

Upon successful completion of the course of study for this award, a graduate will be able to:

Demonstrate an understanding of a broad range of ethical theories and principles that are at the forefront of general and applied ethics.

MA in Ethics
Level:
Postgraduate
School:
School of Theology, Philosophy and Music

DCU’s MA in Ethics is appealing to people who want to enhance their analytical and decision-making skills, enabling them to effectively apply ethical theories and principles to real-world and professional challenges.

You'll be enrolled in this part-time, two-year programme, which consists of six taught modules and a minor thesis:

MA in Data Protection and Privacy Law
Level:
Postgraduate
School:
School of Law and Government

In an era where personal data fuels the global economy, understanding and navigating data protection laws is more essential than ever. This course will help position you to be at the forefront of data protection, ensuring you are prepared for impactful roles in both the public and private sectors.

To facilitate both interdisciplinarity and specialisation, the MA will be divided into two streams: law and computing. Entrance on to either the law or computing stream will be dependent upon existing education. All students will complete 4 core modules which will offer a mix of law and computing and will be accessible to all admitted students.

 

Law Steam

Core Modules

MA i Léann na Gaeilge header
Level:
Postgraduate
School:
Fiontar & Scoil na Gaeilge

Soláthraíonn an MA i Léann na Gaeilge deis do mhic léinn sainscileanna acadúla a ghnóthú trí iniúchadh níos doimhne a dhéanamh ar theanga, ar chultúr & ar litríocht na Gaeilge.

The MA in Léann na Gaeilge provides students with the opportunity to acquire specialist academic skills through a deeper exploration of Irish language, culture & literature.

Is féidir an chéim a bhaint amach trí chlár bliana lánaimseartha nó go páirtaimseartha trí chlár dhá bhliain. Má roghnaíonn tú an clár bliana, déanfaidh tú trí mhodúl i Seimeastar 1 agus trí mhodúl eile i Seimeastar 2, agus freastalóidh tú ar léachtaí ar an gcampas cúpla tráthnóna sa tseachtain. Scrúdú scríofa nó measúnuithe leanúnacha a bhíonn i gceist leis an measúnú. Déanfaidh tú miontráchtas a scríobh faoi stiúir léachtóra.

Student standing in front of the DCU Media Studio
Level:
Postgraduate
School:
School of Communications

MSc in Emerging Media is built from a rich legacy of over twenty five years of excellence in research and education within multimedia, digital technologies and adjacent fields.

Students in the programme are offered from a range of production-based modules, including Responsive Media, Moving Image and Video Production, Audio and Sound Design, Emerging Media Praxis, Visual Design, and Screenwriting, as well as theory-based modules such as Understanding Social Media, Project Plan and Management, Media Audiences and Consumption. 

By the end of the programme students plan and execute a Major Project in teams, supervised by staff, and designed to provide an industry-level portfolio piece. 

People studying in the library
Level:
Postgraduate
School:
School of Law and Government

Conflict takes many forms, not just physical fights, and it impacts all of us. Understanding why conflicts happen and what drives them is crucial in our rapidly changing world.

You have two ways to complete this MA: in one year if you study full-time or in two years if you study part-time. The academic year begins in the middle of September.

As a full-time student, you will take three core classes in the first semester, along with a research methodology class. In the second semester, you will select three classes from a range of topics. You will also need to complete a 15,000-word dissertation, due in September.

MA in Refugee Integration header
Level:
Postgraduate
School:
SALIS

Join the MA in Refugee Integration at DCU to gain the skills and knowledge needed to lead in advocacy, crisis response and shaping inclusive policies for a rapidly changing world. Study part-time, hybrid or full time in person and become part of Ireland’s first University of Sanctuary.

As a full-time student, here's how your programme will be structured:

Students talking outside the library
Level:
Postgraduate
School:
School of History and Geography

Gain a deeper understanding of Ireland’s social, cultural, economic and political history from the early modern period to the present day. DCU's MA in History provides a fresh perspective on Ireland's journey from being a colony to becoming an independent state.

Classes in this programme use a mix of seminars, workshops, small group discussions, and field trips to teach the material. 

The focus is on promoting active and independent learning. Each module is worth 10 credits and is assessed through ongoing evaluations, which can include reviews, essays, research papers, learning journals, and class presentations.

MA in Children’s and Young Adult Literature header
Level:
Postgraduate
School:
School of English

This is the only postgraduate degree in Ireland that specifically focuses on young adult literature

The MA in Children's and Young Adult Literature degree programme has a number of aims:

MA in Creative Writing header
Level:
Postgraduate
School:
School of English

Have you always wanted to write, but never found the time, the focus, the space or the motivation?

We aim to teach students a wide range of creative writing techniques in various forms such as drama, fiction, poetry and screenwriting. We believe that even if a student has a primary interest in one form, exposure to all these creative disciplines can be beneficial. Many aspects of writing, such as imagery, rhythm, narrative structure, voice/language style and the use of rhetorical techniques apply across different forms and genres, not just one.

MSc sa Bhainistíocht agus Gnó Digiteach header
Level:
Postgraduate
School:
Fiontar & Scoil na Gaeilge

Ar an gcúrsa seo déanfaidh tú staidéar ar ghnó digiteach agus ar bhainistíocht – ábhair atá riachtanach i ngach slí bheatha. Foghlaimeoidh tú faoin ngaol idir na hábhair éagsúla ghnó, agus tábhacht na teicneolaíochta i bhforbairt rathúil eagraíochtaí. 

On this masters’ you will study digital business and management in tandem – these are essential in many careers today. You will learn about the similarities between different businesses, and the importance of technology in the successful development and management of organisations and companies.

Thar tréimhse dhá bhliain, tugann mic léinn pháirtaimseartha faoi mhodúil i réimse topaicí a bhaineann leis an ngnó digiteach, bainistíocht agus ceannaireacht, agus cúrsaí straitéise agus margaíochta, chomh maith le tionscadal nó tráchtas sa taighde feidhmeach. Dearadh gach ceann de na modúil ar mhaithe le freastal ar threochtaí atá ag teacht chun cinn i saol na hoibre sa lá atá inniu ann.

International MA in Security Intelligence and Strategic Studies
Level:
Postgraduate
School:
School of Law and Government

On the International Master in Security, Intelligence and Strategic Studies you will examine a broad range of contemporary security challenges, such as terrorism, civil war and intra-state conflict, mass migration, energy security, cyber security, and transnational crime.

The programme is structured around four mobility periods across two years. During Year 1 you will undertake a series of core and optional courses reflecting key themes and research design.

In Year 2 you will choose a specialist concentration containing a range of themed courses. Also included is a fourth flexible study period, during which time you will complete your independent study (dissertation) and may have the opportunity to undertake a work-based learning placement with a relevant associate partner.

LLM >
LLM
Level:
Postgraduate
School:
School of Law and Government

Programme Structure and Content