Master in MA Irish and Local History

Maynooth University sits just 25 kilometres from Dublin in County Kildare, combining the calm of a historic college town with easy access to Ireland's capital. Founded in 1795 and now one of the nation’s fastest growing universities, Maynooth hosts a diverse community of more than 17,600 students, offering a welcoming campus that blends tradition and modern facilities. International students find a compact, navigable environment that supports focused study while remaining close to internships, cultural sites and the business hub of Dublin.

Academically, Maynooth is recognised for research-informed teaching across humanities, sciences and social sciences, with personalised class sizes that help students build strong relationships with faculty. The university emphasises employability and practical learning, connecting students with local employers and research projects that reflect Ireland’s vibrant economy. Student services include language support, career guidance and a range of clubs and societies that ease the transition to university life and foster friendships across cultures.

For prospective international applicants, Maynooth offers an environment that balances academic rigour with pastoral care and a clear route to professional networks. Affordable living compared with central Dublin, efficient transport links and active student support make it a practical choice for those seeking quality education in Ireland. Whether aiming for research, professional qualification or further study, Maynooth presents a focused, student-centred pathway with strong links to industry and community life.

Overview

The MA in Irish and Local History offers a unique opportunity to examine and research the rich subject area of Irish history through the lens of local history and heritage, and within national and international contexts. Local history is an approach to studying the past which deepens our understanding of place, community and culture.

This distinctive element roots the MA programme in the landscape of Ireland, fostering community engagement and encouraging active participation in the preservation of local heritage. This is the only Irish and Local History MA available in Ireland.

Through a combination of compulsory and optional modules, students gain an in-depth knowledge of the sources and resources available to historians of Ireland, culminating in a 15,000-20,000 word thesis.

The programme traces the historical development of Ireland from the medieval period to the present, covering various optional modules that may include topics such as medieval Ireland, women's history, social history, religious history, heritage, conservation, and cultural tourism.