Masters Degrees in Politics & Government, Ireland

The United States is the most influential nation in the world. However, a number of challenges in recent years have called into question the sustainability of American leadership abroad and prosperity at home. These include, but are not limited to, the notion of American decline in relation to rising powers such as China: a political system that appears to have entered an extended period of dysfunction; recurring problems in race relations; and rising economic inequality. This MA degree programme, which is the first of its kind in Europe or North America, allows students to explore in depth the foreign policy and political challenges facing the United States. Drawing upon the disciplines of history and political science, it explores a wide variety of topics such as the origins of American exceptionalism, the importance placed upon individual liberty, the emergence of the US as a world power, the Cold War, transatlantic relations, presidential and congressional election, race and gender, partisanship and more. Modules in this programme are taught by resident UCD faculty and by visiting lecturers, who will consider theoretical and practical perspectives. The programme will interest those seeking a career in government, media, in the non-profit sector, in business and those hoping to undertake advanced study in these areas.

“Having spent years working in news I’d always wanted to get behind the headlines. This masters offers a fascinating insight into the policies, ideologies and people that have shaped the US and thus our world order”. – Niamh

CURRICULUM

This is a 90 credit programme, of which 60 credits come from taught modules and 30 from a dissertation. 50 credits are from core modules and the remaining 10 from a list of options available through other Schools.
Type of modules you could expect to take but is subject to change each year include:
American Political Tradition
Foundations of US Foreign Policy
American Politics Today
Challenges in Contemporary US Foreign Policy

Eligibility

Applicants for the MA should hold one of the following qualifications:
• A first class or second class, grade 1 degree
• A US or Canadian degree with a GPA of 3.0
• If an applicant doesn’t meet the normal entry requirement of a Level 8 degree, in exceptional circumstances they would normally • • present another qualification or award along with extensive work experience in order to be considered.

To Apply

– http://www.ucd.ie/apply

Queries can be directed to, Catherine Carey, Manager

Catherine.Carey@ucd.ie
http://www.ucdclinton.ie

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This MA programme in Media and International Conflict is designed to enable students to develop understanding of the ways in which media interact with war, international conflict and security. It analyzes the complex roles played by the media in the enactment and representation of international conflict and addresses the relationships among media, governments, the military, and NGOs in framing perceptions of international conflict.

It provides an interdisciplinary approach that considers both cultural and political dimensions of media responses to international conflicts, focusing on issues such as : public diplomacy as soft power, human rights and representation, distinctions between information and propaganda, the ethics of depicting human suffering, the role of new and social media in perceptions of conflict, the visual economy of the production, circulation and reception of imagery of conflict, and the effects of news reporting on government policy and NGO activity. Modules in this programme are taught by resident UCD faculty and by external speakers, both academics and practitioners, who will broaden intellectual discussion and speak to examples of media work.
The programme will interest those seeking a career in international communications, media, NGOs, public sector or professionals seeking more critical understanding of the international dimensions of their industry, and those wishing to prepare for advanced research in this area.

“Studying in the Clinton Institute was a wonderful experience. The classes are small, which means you really get to know everybody, and there is a very comfortable atmosphere. A wide range of topics ensured that everybody got a chance to study and discuss areas that they are passionate about. Lively debates were the norm!. This MA was a fascinating journey through history, current affairs, politics and media. It offered a great opportunity to build strong research, writing and presenting skills, with the help of diligent and engaging staff of the Institute. I would do it all over again if I could!” – Karen

CURRICULUM

This is a 90 credit programme, of which 60 credits come from taught modules and 30 from a dissertation. 50 credits are from core modules and the remaining 10 from a list of options available through other Schools.
Type of modules you could expect to take but is subject to change each year:

Media and International Conflict
Public Diplomacy
New Media and New Conflict
Challenges Facing US Foreign Policy

Eligibility

Applicants for the MA should hold one of the following qualifications:
• A first class or second class, grade 1 degree
• A US or Canadian degree with a GPA of 3.0
• If an applicant doesn’t meet the normal entry requirement of a Level 8 degree, in exceptional circumstances they would normally • • present another qualification or award along with extensive work experience in order to be considered.

To Apply

– http://www.ucd.ie/apply

Queries can be directed to, Catherine Carey, Manager

Catherine.Carey@ucd.ie
http://www.ucdclinton.ie

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The Graduate Diploma/Masters in International Development Practice (MIDP) via blended learning programme is intended to help to maximise career opportunities for busy professionals and postgraduate researchers. The course is delivered on a blended learning basis, through a combination of residential summer and winter schools, online lectures and tutorials, plus a 20,000-word dissertation. Additionally, the programme will provide participants with a strong inter-disciplinary foundation and continuing professional development expertise in the area of international development practice.

This innovative programme is designed for those who wish to pursue careers within international organisations, government agencies, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), philanthropic institutions, and consultancy firms engaged in international development practice. The programme will create a cohort of international practitioners with the capacity to analyse and scrutinise some of the most chronic developmental problems of the twenty-first century and to provide participants with the practical skills to provide resolution along a wide spectrum of critical policy areas.

The programme is offered on a full-time basis over 18 months, with part-time options also available for participants over an extended period (up to three years).

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Overview

Societies such as Ireland are adjusting very rapidly to change in the external and internal environments.

The aim of this MA is to interrogate the social, political, economic and cultural dimensions of the internet in contemporary societies. From work to leisure, from education to politics, the internet provides a platform for new forms of interaction, engagement and socialisation. This exciting new MA will build upon the theoretical and methodological strengths of the Department of Sociology, with additional options offered by the Departments of Law and Media in Maynooth.

Course Structure

The taught programme is built around three components: a core theoretical module, substantive courses, and methods courses. Modules include the political economy and cultures of the internet, information technology and privacy law and advanced digital research methods. Beyond this, the researching and writing of a thesis constitutes 30 credits. Each module comprises on average 12 two hour seminars.

Career Options

The aim of the MA in Sociology (Internet and Society) programme is to prepare students for both academic and non-academic positions which support social behaviour online, including on social media and in large transnational online communities. Graduates of this course will be able to interface with programmers and designers and with those working on the deep statistical analysis of user data. There is a demand for digitally literate graduates who understand the social, cultural, political, legal and business aspects of transnational online users and communities. Graduates will be able to develop, execute and report on internet based research projects for a range of public and private sector employers. They may also wish to use their new skills to progress to PhD studies.

How to Apply

Online application only http://www.pac.ie/maynoothuniversity

PAC Code
MHY56 MA Sociology (Internet and Society)

The following information should be forwarded to PAC, 1 Courthouse Square, Galway or uploaded to your online application form:
Certified copies of all official transcripts of results for all non-Maynooth University qualifications listed MUST accompany the application. Failure to do so will delay your application being processed. Non-Maynooth University students are asked to provide a copy of their birth certificate or valid passport, two academic references and official transcripts. A personal statement is required. This should include any information that you consider relevant to your interest and ability in the MA in Sociology.

Find information on Scholarships here https://www.maynoothuniversity.ie/study-maynooth/postgraduate-studies/fees-funding-scholarships

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Overview

The MSocSc (Rights & Social Policy) provides advanced study in key and often challenging issues facing social policy today. It provides an opportunity for critical study in the application of social policy theory and methodology to policy and practice.
The programme aims to provide students with advanced critical, analytical and research skills in selected substantive areas of social policy, and in the shaping of policy, in contemporary Ireland and more widely. In particular the emphasis is on the interconnections between the themes of rights, recognition and redistribution. Currently, the programme includes taught modules on governance, equality, ageing and criminal justice.
The MSocSc (Rights & Social Policy) will provide graduates with: advanced knowledge in critical social policy theory, studies and perspectives; advanced skills in relation to social policy analysis; high levels of competence in social policy research methods; and a thorough grounded understanding in areas of rights, governance, equality, ageing and criminal justice issues. Graduates will develop and demonstrate proficiency by completing a supervised research dissertation in a chosen area of interest.

Course Structure

Modules include writing policy and influencing policy, participative governance and social policy-making, advanced social policy analysis, equality and inclusion, rights and realising rights: case studies, seminars and conferences. The primary difference between the Full-time and Part-time options is that the dissertation is undertaken in Year 2 of the Part-time option.

Career Options

Future career prospects include pursuits in policy analysis and social research organisations, employment in policy development in relevant branches of government, research and policy support roles in third sector organisations that seek to shape policy by engaging with policy making processes.

How To Apply

Online application only http://www.pac.ie/maynoothuniversity

PAC Code
MHB57 Part-time

The following information should be forwarded to PAC, 1 Courthouse Square, Galway or uploaded to your online application form:

Certified copies of all official transcripts of results for all non-Maynooth University qualifications listed MUST accompany the application. Failure to do so will delay your application being processed. Non-Maynooth University students are asked to provide two academic references and a copy of birth certificate or valid passport. Applicants will be required to attend for interview as part of the admissions process.

Find information on Scholarships here https://www.maynoothuniversity.ie/study-maynooth/postgraduate-studies/fees-funding-scholarships

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Overview

The MSocSc (Rights & Social Policy) provides advanced study in key and often challenging issues facing social policy today. It provides an opportunity for critical study in the application of social policy theory and methodology to policy and practice.
The programme aims to provide students with advanced critical, analytical and research skills in selected substantive areas of social policy, and in the shaping of policy, in contemporary Ireland and more widely. In particular the emphasis is on the interconnections between the themes of rights, recognition and redistribution. Currently, the programme includes taught modules on governance, equality, ageing and criminal justice.
The MSocSc (Rights & Social Policy) will provide graduates with: advanced knowledge in critical social policy theory, studies and perspectives; advanced skills in relation to social policy analysis; high levels of competence in social policy research methods; and a thorough grounded understanding in areas of rights, governance, equality, ageing and criminal justice issues. Graduates will develop and demonstrate proficiency by completing a supervised research dissertation in a chosen area of interest.

Course Structure

Modules include writing policy and influencing policy, participative governance and social policy-making, advanced social policy analysis, equality and inclusion, rights and realising rights: case studies, seminars and conferences. The primary difference between the Full-time and Part-time options is that the dissertation is undertaken in Year 2 of the Part-time option.

Career Options

Future career prospects include pursuits in policy analysis and social research organisations, employment in policy development in relevant branches of government, research and policy support roles in third sector organisations that seek to shape policy by engaging with policy making processes.

How To Apply

Online application only http://www.pac.ie/maynoothuniversity

PAC Code
MHB56 Full-time

The following information should be forwarded to PAC, 1 Courthouse Square, Galway or uploaded to your online application form:

Certified copies of all official transcripts of results for all non-Maynooth University qualifications listed MUST accompany the application. Failure to do so will delay your application being processed. Non-Maynooth University students are asked to provide two academic references and a copy of birth certificate or valid passport. Applicants will be required to attend for interview as part of the admissions process.

Find information on Scholarships here https://www.maynoothuniversity.ie/study-maynooth/postgraduate-studies/fees-funding-scholarships

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Overview (General information) This one-year part-time flagship Diploma programme is a comprehensive learning and practice experience. The course is based on the theoretical foundations of mediation and includes analysis of conflict theory, negotiation theory and approaches to conflict intervention and marries this with intensive practice skills development throughout the year. It explores multiple fields for the application and practice of mediation and conflict intervention in society today including Families, Workplace Mediation, Commercial Mediation, Restorative Justice, Conflict Resolution in Education, Peacemaking, Community Mediation and Multiparty Policy Disputes. The programme prepares students for professional certification in mediation with the Mediator’s Institute of Ireland.

The course is structured around theoretical presentations and skills development through exercises and role-play and the introduction to specialised areas of mediation practice as mentioned above.

Accreditation

The Diploma is aimed at those who wish to develop mediation skills for application in their area of work or for developing a career in mediation. Graduates will receive a Diploma in Mediation from the Edward Kennedy Institute, Maynooth University and those who successfully take the Mediation Roleplay Competency Assessment can apply to the Mediator’s Institute of Ireland for Certified Status as a Mediator.



Gain knowledge of the theory and practice of mediation, conflict paradigms and conflict intervention theory principles and practice, so that they have a strong theoretical base to their practice.
Develop mediation and conflict intervention skills through the application of theory to practice in role-play so that they are skillful mediation practioners.
Develop self awareness in their communication skills through reflective exercises and coaching so that they are aware and reflective in their mediation practice.
Gain ability to analyse conflict through systemic analysis so that they can process and plan conflict intervention strategy.
Have knowledge and practice skills in reality testing, bargaining and negotiation to enable negotiations between parties in mediation.
Recognize and can work with power issues in mediation.
Are congruent in their practice with the value base of mediation.
Are ethically sensitive and competent.
Have ability in conducting caucus, shuttle mediation and co-mediation through knowledge and role-play so that they are able to enact these practices in mediation.
Are competent in drafting mediation agreements using clear and concise and neutral language.
Have ability in facilitating expressions of regret and apology between parties in mediation.
Are prepared to take a Mediation Competency Assessment.
Have an introduction to Community & Workplace Mediation, Mediation & Labour Relations, Multiparty Mediation for Public Policy Disputes, School and Family Mediation, Peacemaking and Restorative Practice.

The course comprises five modules each of five days duration, held on Mondays from 09.30 to 17.00 over the academic year (end September to beginning May). Students learn through lectures, skills training and project work. Students are obliged to attend 80% of the course.

Assessment

Students must complete two assignments per module and take part in a competency assessment of mediation skills at end of year.


The Diploma is aimed at those who wish to develop mediation skills for application in their area of work or for developing a career in mediation. Successful graduates of the programme will receive a Diploma in Mediation from the Edward Kennedy Institute, Maynooth University and will have passed a competency assessment whereupon they may register with the Mediator’s Institute of Ireland as a certified mediator.

Graduates will generally find work in this field through self employment. Agencies which provide a conflict management consultancy and/or mediation service employ mediators. Many graduates use the knowledge and skills gained on the course for application in their current employment.

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Overview

The LLM (International Justice) provides students with critical insights into the international legal system and how it operates to promote and secure justice. It analyses how the international legal order works and how it seeks to protect vulnerable groups, including minorities, migrants and peoples with disabilities. The programme draws on law and other disciplines, including sociology, anthropology and politics, to provide students with a comprehensive examination of the challenges facing international justice mechanisms today.

Placement opportunities with partner civil society organisations, such as Transparency International (Ireland) will be available.

Teaching is delivered by means of small class lectures, in-class simulations, workshops and masterclasses.

The programme will be very attractive to law graduates who wish to specialise in the field of international law and to non-law graduates who may be interested in undertaking a vocational law programme in the future.


Minimum English language requirements:
•IELTS: 6.5 minimum overall score
•TOEFL (Paper based test): 585
•TOEFL (Internet based test): 95
•PTE (Pearson): 62

National University of Ireland Maynooth’s TOEFL code is 8850

Course Structure

Students must complete 90 credits in total, completing 30 taught credits in each semester. A 30 credit dissertation is completed during the summer. Students may choose any combination of modules they wish, however, they cannot take more than 30 taught credits per semester. Not all modules offered will run every year; offerings are dependent upon demand and other potential constraints.Modules offered include Public International Law, International Human Rights Law, International Criminal law, the rights of Minorities and Indigenous peoples, and Globalisation, Migration and the Law.

Career Options

The programme will prepare students for policy and advocacy work in national, regional, and international organisations with a social and economic justice mandate. Students can gain work experience through optional placements offered as part of the programme.

How To Apply

Online application only http://www.pac.ie/maynoothuniversity

PAC Code

MH65J

The following documents should be forwarded to PAC, 1 Courthouse Square, Galway or uploaded to your online application form:

Certified copies of all official transcripts of results for all non-Maynooth University qualifications listed MUST accompany the application. Failure to do so will delay your application being processed. Non-Maynooth University students are asked to provide two academic references and a copy of birth certificate or valid passport.

Find information on Scholarships here https://www.maynoothuniversity.ie/study-maynooth/postgraduate-studies/fees-funding-scholarships

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Minimum English language requirements:
•IELTS: 6.5 minimum overall score
•TOEFL (Paper based test): 585
•TOEFL (Internet based test): 95
•PTE (Pearson): 62
National University of Ireland Maynooth’s TOEFL code is 8850

Overview

The LLM (International Justice) provides students with critical insights into the international legal system and how it operates to promote and secure justice. It analyses how the international legal order works and how it seeks to protect vulnerable groups, including minorities, migrants and peoples with disabilities. The programme draws on law and other disciplines, including sociology, anthropology and politics, to provide students with a comprehensive examination of the challenges facing international justice mechanisms today.

Placement opportunities with partner civil society organisations, such as Transparency International (Ireland) will be available.

Teaching is delivered by means of small class lectures, in-class simulations, workshops and masterclasses.

The programme will be very attractive to law graduates who wish to specialise in the field of international law and to non-law graduates who may be interested in undertaking a vocational law programme in the future.

Course Structure

Students must complete 90 credits in total, completing 30 taught credits in each semester. A 30 credit dissertation is completed during the summer. Students may choose any combination of modules they wish, however, they cannot take more than 30 taught credits per semester. Not all modules offered will run every year; offerings are dependent upon demand and other potential constraints.Modules offered include Public International Law, International Human Rights Law, International Criminal law, the rights of Minorities and Indigenous peoples, and Globalisation, Migration and the Law.

Career Options

The programme will prepare students for policy and advocacy work in national, regional, and international organisations with a social and economic justice mandate. Students can gain work experience through optional placements offered as part of the programme.

How To Apply

Online application only http://www.pac.ie/maynoothuniversity

PAC Code

MH64J

The following documents should be forwarded to PAC, 1 Courthouse Square, Galway or uploaded to your online application form:

Certified copies of all official transcripts of results for all non-Maynooth University qualifications listed MUST accompany the application. Failure to do so will delay your application being processed. Non-Maynooth University students are asked to provide two academic references and a copy of birth certificate or valid passport.

Find information on Scholarships here https://www.maynoothuniversity.ie/study-maynooth/postgraduate-studies/fees-funding-scholarships

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Overview

The MA in Mediation and Conflict Intervention at Edward Kennedy Institute, Maynooth University provides a learning experience for those who wish to deepen and integrate their mediation and conflict intervention knowledge and skills. The programme delivers specialist professional training in the areas of Organisational and Workplace Mediation, Family Mediation, Commercial Mediation, Restorative Practice and Peace Process Studies, providing the professional knowledge and skills necessary for practice in these areas. Students complete nine modules of 10 credits each over a two-year duration.

This highly experiential programme provides ongoing opportunities to learn reflectively through exercises and in practice through feedback and coaching while formal presentations provide background theory in the specialist areas. Students gain a strong theoretical foundation coupled with skills and practice development leading to a solid grounding in the best practice of constructive conflict intervention processes.

The MA in Mediation and Conflict Intervention is designed for those people who are intently interested in furthering their skills base and knowledge in the field of mediation and conflict intervention. Participants will usually have been working directly or indirectly with people in conflict as a professional or as someone required to handle conflict situations in their work or personal lives. Participating in this programme will further develop theoretical knowledge and applied skills in conflict analysis, mediation and other specialist chosen areas of study. The programme is designed to be an intense learning experience where small class sizes encourage strong skills development and engagement in a continuous and collaborative learning environment.

The course is accredited by the Mediators Institute of Ireland (MII) and students who are not already certified mediators with the MII must undergo and pass the first module (MC615) via assignment and competency assessment. This will enable students to register with the MII as a certified Mediator with eligibility to practice. Completion of the Masters programme will provide further requirements for Practitioner Accreditation. This senior status is achieved when the student has successfully completed the course and also has completed cases to MII standard (see Mediators Institute of Ireland website: http://www.themii.ie).

Course Structure

Two Year Part Time Programme

Each year has a different schedule with some modules repeated each year.

In the academic year of 2017-2018 the first semester delivers the following modules. Research (MC603), Mediation Knowledge and Practice (MC615), Family Mediation (MC604), Mediation Theory into Practice (MC628), Values and Relationship in Mediation and Conflict Intervention (MC601) and Restorative Practices (MC608). The second semester modules are Commercial Mediation (MC607), Workplace Mediation (MC605), Peace Studies 1 - Resolving Protracted Conflict (MC629) and Peace Studies 2 -Post Conflict Challenges in Implementing Peace Agreements (MC630).

Year two modules include Mediation Knowledge and Practice (MC615), Family Mediation (MC604), Mediation Theory and Conflict Analysis (MC601), Organisational and Workplace Mediation (MC605), Conflict Resolution in Education (MC611) and Restorative Practice in Schools (MC616).

Schedule

The course is structured in modules of 6 days each. Each 6 day module in turn is (usually) broken down into two 3 day blocks (Thursday, Friday, and Saturday). The Restorative Practices Module (MC608) is structured in three blocks of two days, Thursdays and Fridays. The majority of modules are delivered on campus, however some course days are delivered off campus ( MC608, MC629 and MC630), in the North of Ireland or Glencree Centre for Peace and Reconciliation, Enniskerry. Students take the internship module Mediation Theory into Practice (MC628) off campus.

Students must complete one compulsory module MC601 or MC606 each year, whichever is being delivered in the year. Students without appropriate accreditation as a mediator must complete and pass MC615, the first module on offer each year. Students complete nine modules in total over two academic years.
While every attempt will be made to keep to dates advertised it is important to note that all dates are provisional and will be confirmed upon commencement of the programme.

Career Options

Graduates are provided with the knowledge base for practice in the specialist areas of mediation and many other conflict intervention systems taught on the course. Graduates who have completed module MC615 and passed the competency assessment may apply to register with the Mediators Institute of Ireland (MII) and advertise their practice as a certified mediator. On completion of supervised cases, graduates may apply for assessment to the advanced level of Practitioner Member with the MII. Graduates may incorporate their learning into their current employment or the development of their future career. Others may choose self-employment offering a variety of services including mediation, conflict analysis, conflict management, facilitation and other conflict interventions to prospective clients. Some agencies, providing a mediation service, employ mediators, which provides another option.

How To Apply

Online application only http://www.pac.ie/maynoothuniversity

PAC Code
MH50M / MH51M

Closing date
Late applications may be considered if there are places remaining on the course

The following information should be forwarded to PAC, 1 Courthouse Square, Galway or uploaded to your online application form:

Certified copies of all official transcripts of results for all non-Maynooth University qualifications listed MUST accompany the application. Failure to do so will delay your application being processed. Non-Maynooth University students are asked to provide two references and a copy of birth certificate or valid passport.

Find information on Scholarships here https://www.maynoothuniversity.ie/study-maynooth/postgraduate-studies/fees-funding-scholarships

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