Queen's University Belfast United Kingdom

Irish Studies MA

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The MA in Irish Studies at Queen's University Belfast offers you a unique opportunity to delve into the rich and complex history, culture, and politics of Ireland. This postgraduate degree is designed for those eager to explore diverse topics, from the poetry of Seamus Heaney and medieval sagas to the intricacies of language rights, contested parades, and Ireland's post-Brexit position. You will engage with interdisciplinary perspectives, drawing on expertise from English, History, Anthropology, Politics, Sociology, and more, to develop a nuanced understanding of Ireland and its global connections.

This full-time, on-campus Masters programme is structured around core modules, including a deep dive into ‘Belfast: Place, Identity and Memory in a Contested City’, and a choice of research methods courses. You will select four elective modules from a wide range, allowing you to tailor your studies to your specific interests, whether in Irish women's writing, the politics of Northern Ireland, or medieval Irish history. The programme culminates in a significant 15,000-word dissertation, where you will conduct original research under expert supervision. You will graduate with advanced research skills and a profound understanding of Irish Studies, prepared for careers in academia, cultural heritage, policy, or international relations.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MA in Irish Studies offers a comprehensive exploration of Ireland's rich cultural, historical, and political landscape. Through core modules like "Belfast: Place, Identity and Memory in a Contested City," students will engage with critical issues, complemented by a wide array of elective modules covering diverse topics such as Irish women's writing, the politics of the Republic of Ireland, and the anthropology of conflict. The program culminates in a significant dissertation, allowing for in-depth independent research on a chosen aspect of Irish Studies.

1 Core Modules

Belfast: Place, Identity and Memory in a Contested City

2 Dissertation

Irish Studies Dissertation

3 Elective Modules

Advanced Anthropological Perspectives
Bridging Community Divisions in Irish Drama and the Novel
Irish Women’s Writing
Individually Negotiated Topic in History
Theory in History
Pathways Through History
Politics of the Republic of Ireland
Violence, Terrorism and Security
Kingship and Colonisation in Medieval Ireland: Interdisciplinary Perspectives
Language Revival, Reconciliation and Politics in Northern Ireland
Anthropology of Conflict: Ireland and Beyond
Irish Poetry
Trauma and Memory in Contemporary Irish Literature
Presenting Sources
Public History Internship (with placement in a museum/heritage centre in Northern Ireland)
Topics in Irish History
The Politics of Northern Ireland
Conflict Intervention
Global Ireland
Freedom and Modernity
Conflict & Change in Northern Ireland

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

26% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 22,974.00 USD 31,089.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 22,974.00 USD 31,089.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 785.00 - USD 1,416.00
Food & Groceries USD 4,833.00 - USD 7,249.00
Transport USD 806.00 - USD 3,222.00
Utilities & Bills USD 4,028.00 - USD 4,833.00
Estimated Total USD 9,667.00 - USD 15,304.00

Living cost estimates are based on Belfast Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

89%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accounting & AuditingAdvertising TechnologyBanking & Financial ServicesCommercial & Industrial ConstructionEvent & Experiential MarketingHigher Education & UniversitiesMarketing Analytics & Data ManagementSocial Media & Community ManagementTalent & Artist ManagementTax & Financial Law

Top Employers Hiring for this course

A&O Shearman

Baker McKenzie

Bauer Media Group

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

Citi

European commission

National History Museum

PwC

Why Study Irish Studies MA at Queen's University Belfast

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at Queen's University Belfast in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Irish Studies MA at Queen's University Belfast

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time for Degree courses. Full-time work is allowed during breaks, with no separate work permit needed.

What English language score do I need for this course?

Applicants must meet specific English test requirements. Accepted tests include Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE, with details varying for each.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include Irish Studies Researcher, Cultural Advisor, Education Coordinator, and Policy Analyst.

What will I actually study in this course?

Irish Studies encompasses various disciplines to study the history and culture of Ireland and its global contexts. The program includes diverse modules that prepare students for research and a major dissertation.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Irish Studies MA program has an intake month in September. Ensure you apply on time to secure your spot.
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