PhD EDUCATION

At Maynooth University, tuition costs 22,882 USD per year.

Overview

The Structured PhD in Education is a research degree that supports students in engaging in research at the highest academic level. Students work with their supervisors to develop a substantive piece of research that makes an original contribution to knowledge in the field and tradition of educational research. The PhD in Education is offered by the Department of Education in collaboration with colleagues from the Froebel Department of Early Childhood and Primary Education.

Distinctive Features

The Department of Education at Maynooth University is an exciting place for postgraduate research, featuring an excellent international profile and a vibrant community of scholarly exchange. Students engage in interdisciplinary and collaborative research and can pursue a wide range of educational topics. This includes opportunities for inter-departmental co-supervision.

Community and Support

Students must register for a minimum of 30 credits in pass/fail modules and write a thesis of approximately 90,000-100,000 words. The supportive atmosphere and intellectual vibrancy at the university make it a dynamic space for exploration and learning.

Career Opportunities

Graduates are equipped for leadership roles, advanced research positions, and university-level teaching. Many students aspire to drive policy formation within national and international contexts.

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.