MA Irish Studies at Queen's University Belfast

Programme overview

The MA in Irish Studies is an interdisciplinary programme exploring the history, culture, politics and society of the island of Ireland and its global relationships, with options from Literature, History, Politics, Anthropology, Irish Language, Archaeology and Sociology. It provides research methods training and prepares students to write a major dissertation in their chosen specialisation, working with the Institute of Irish Studies.

Department: School of History, Anthropology, Philosophy and Politics | Duration: 1 year full-time; 3 years part-time | Intake: September 2027 (Academic Year 2027/28) | Study mode: full-time / part-time | Location: Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Core modules: Dissertation (60 credits) and Belfast: Place, Identity and Memory in a Contested City (20 credits). Optional modules include The Historian's Craft, Advanced Anthropological Perspectives, Irish Poetry, Public History Internship, The Politics and Institutions of Northern Ireland, Conflict Intervention, Violence, Terrorism and Security, Irish Women's Writing, Migrating Identities and Contemporary Northern Irish Literature.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Normally a 2.2 Honours degree in a relevant subject with evidence of study of Ireland, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University. Applicants below 2.2 with evidence of study of Ireland and relevant professional experience are considered case by case, and may be asked to submit a piece of written work. Application ideally no later than 13 August 2027. International applicants: IELTS 6.0 overall with no component below 5.5 (taken within the last 2 years), or equivalent.

Domestic applicants: GBP 9,250 a year (2027/28). Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland (eligible ROI-resident) rate Source

International applicants: GBP 24,400 a year (2027/28). International and EU Other rate Source

Intake: September 2027

Duration: 1 year full-time; 3 years part-time

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