Medieval Irish Studies

This MA enables students to explore and examine the rich tradition of early Irish literature and intellectual culture, from the early medieval period and the advent of Christianity until the coming of the Normans at the end of the 12th century. It also enables students to deepen their acquaintance with the language of the period, and to endow them with a set of research skills appropriate to work in this field.

This programme comprises two parts: taught modules (compulsory and elective modules) [60 credits] and a minor thesis [30 credits] [90 credits in total].



The compulsory taught modules focus on medieval Irish literature (20 credits), palaeography and manuscript studies (10 credits), and general research skills and methodology (10 credits).



The choice of the elective modules depends on the students' level of knowledge of the Old Irish language. Students with a previous knowledge of Old Irish will do Old Irish reading modules that focus on the philology, translation and analysis of Early Irish literature (20 credits). Students with no or insufficient previous knowledge of the language will be required to attend a suite of intensive introductory language modules (20 credits).



The minor thesis amounts to approximately 15,000 words (30 credits) on a topic approved by the Head of Department, under the supervision of a designated supervisor. The topic is agreed by the end of the first semester, and the work is begun during the period between the first and the second semester. The thesis is submitted by a specific date at the end of the academic year, typically either in July or October.

Applicants must normally have a 2:1at BA level (NFQ Level 8 or equivalent honours degree) in Medieval Irish and Celtic Studies or a cognate discipline (e.g. History, Philosophy, Modern Irish, Classics) No previous knowledge of Old Irish is necessary to do this course, although students are required to take Old Irish language as part of the degree. Applicants must have a recognised primary degree which is considered equivalent to Irish university primary degree level (NFQ Level 8 or equivalent honours degree).



Minimum English language requirements:

Applicants for whom English is not their first language are required to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study. The requirements specified are applicable for both EU and International applicants.



For information about English language tests accepted and required scores, please see

https://www.maynoothuniversity.ie/study-maynooth/how-apply/english-language-requirements



Maynooth University's TOEFL code is 8850.

Closing Date : 30 June 2025



Applications are open for the 2025/6 academic year. Visit our online application portal to start your application.

We are here to support you throughout the admissions process.



For queries on your postgraduate course options please contact pgstudies@mu.ie

For queries or support on your application process please contact pgadmissions@mu.ie



If you are an international (Non-EU) applicant please contact internationaladmissions@mu.ie

MHX52: 1 year full-time

MHX53: 2 years part-time

Commences: September

Successful completion of the Masters programme will equip the student for library work, various types of adult education, and employment in the heritage and related industries. Successful completion of the programme at a high level, with an appropriate degree of competence of Old and Middle Irish, will normally equip students to proceed to study for a PhD.