| Timetable group: Other | This programme offers students the opportunity to explore early Western intellectual history from a variety of angles, philosophical, literary, and cultural. It will appeal both to those who want an overview of the foundations of modern European thought, and to those with more specialized interests in Classics, Medieval and Renaissance studies, philosophy, or the history of ideas. The general aim is to provide students with a specialized knowledge in aspects of Ancient, Medieval and Renaissance thought, focusing on philosophical writers, literary, historical, and cultural topics, and the history of Western thought. Building upon the strengths of critical thinking, systematic reflection, and historical awareness developed by students in their undergraduate studies, the programme will allow candidates to explore thematic concerns of writers and thinkers in the Western tradition from Ancient Greece and Rome to the sixteenth century and beyond. It will also prepare those who complete the programme at a high level, and have acquired appropriate competences, for research degrees in Classics, Philosophy, or a related field. Commences September PHACF6 - ANCIENT, MEDIEVAL AND RENAISSANCE THOUGHT | Credits: 90 Not compulsory: | The MA in Anthropology is an advanced degree in socio-cultural anthropology in which students are given a sophisticated introduction to the theoretical underpinnings of the discipline, a block of modules that open up and explore the conceptual and methodological core of the discipline, and a series of specialised modules that show the range of socio-cultural anthropology today. Students are also required to write a thesis. The MA in Anthropology is primarily a scholarly degree that aims to equip students for later doctoral research or for work in roles that demand academic social-scientific knowledge or the particular skills of trained ethnographic researchers. Commences September ANF6 - ANTHROPOLOGY | Credits: 90 Not compulsory: | The MA in Linguistic Anthropology is an advanced degree in Socio-cultural Anthropology with a particular emphasis on Linguistic Anthropology in which students are given a sophisticated introduction to the theoretical underpinnings of the discipline of Anthropology, a block of modules that open up and explore the conceptual and methodological core of the discipline, and a series of specialised modules in Linguistic Anthropology. Students are also required to write a thesis in Linguistic Anthropology. The MA in Linguistic Anthropology is primarily a scholarly degree that aims to equip students for later doctoral research in this sub-field or for work in roles that demand academic social-scientific knowledge or the particular skills of trained ethnographic researchers. Commences September. ANLF6 - LINGUISTIC ANTHROPOLOGY | Credits: 90 Not compulsory: | The MA in Applied Linguistics and Intercultural Studies is a one-year full time (or two-year part-time) taught programme and is offered on a full-time basis using a combination of faculty-student contact hours and self-directed learning and research. It aims to provide students who already have a background in a foreign language and linguistics at undergraduate level with an opportunity to specialise at a postgraduate level in the areas of sociolinguistics, second language acquisition, corpus linguistics, bi- and multilingualism, second language pedagogy and the role of English in a globalised world. What makes this programme unique in Ireland is two-fold: the inclusion of Intercultural Studies, allowing students to expand their linguistic specialisation to cognate (inter)cultural contexts such as intercultural competence and the interplay of language and culture; and the genuinely multilingual orientation of the programme focusing not only on English, but also other international languages like French, German and Spanish. The programme introduces students to academic research, new ideas and approaches. It aims to equip students with academic, analytical, creative and reflective skills in order to foster interest and involvement in research in the fields of applied linguistics and intercultural studies. The programme is structured into core (compulsory) and elective (optional) modules in order to ensure concomitantly a solid foundation in the core themes of Applied Linguistics and Intercultural Studies, and to provide students with the flexibility to pursue their chosen areas of interest and passion. It is possible to study modules of particular interest without completing a Masters degree, or to exit with a Postgraduate Diploma (Level 9) in Applied Linguistics and Intercultural Studies after completing 60 credits of taught modules. ALISF6 - APPLIED LINGUISTICS & INTERCULTURAL STUDIES | Credits: 90 Not compulsory: | The MA in Chinese Studies aims to provide students who already have a background in Chinese language and culture at undergraduate level with an opportunity to specialise in the area of cultural and literary analysis with particular emphasis on the conflict and communication within the Sinosphere (mainland China, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau) and between China and the West. The programme introduces students to academic research, new ideas and theoretical approaches. It aims to equip students with academic, analytical, creative, reflective and presentation skills in order to foster interest and involvement in the field of Chinese languages, literatures and cultures. It also aims to enhance students’ knowledge and understanding of important concepts of Chinese languages, literatures, cultures and societies, in particular with regard to mainland China. It is possible to study modules of particular interest without completing a Masters degree or to exit with a Postgraduate Diploma (Level 9) in Chinese Studies after completing 60 credits of taught modules. Commences September CNF6 - CHINESE STUDIES | Credits: 90 Not compulsory: | Criminology can be described as the study of crime, criminals and the criminal justice system. The MA in Comparative Criminology and Criminal Justice gives students the opportunity to develop a specialist knowledge of debates around crime causation and control, within a comparative and international context. Students undertake a wide variety of modules which aim to combine theoretical concepts with real-world problems such as terrorism and organised crime. As a student in Maynooth you will be part of our vibrant community of students and scholars working in the fields of criminology and criminal justice. Our expert academic team, drawing on their extensive research and professional experience, deliver an interdisciplinary programme with a strong emphasis on enhanced research skills. These skills are highly sought-after by employers in the area. There is a strong focus on employability throughout the programme, including opportunities for student placements with criminal justice organisations and civil society. “In addition to the range of optional modules, the core modules were essential to the development of my research and oral presentation skills. Unlike other postgraduate degrees, this MA boasts entire modules specifically designed to expand students' research skills. The range of diverse backgrounds of those attracted to the study of criminology meant that topics in class could be discussed from various approaches, whether it be legal, sociological, anthropological, philosophical etc. This MA prepares you for whatever you want to do after graduation, whether that be further research, or entering the workforce." Pamela Drumgoole, MA (Comparative Criminology and Criminal Justice) Commences September LWCF6 - COMPARATIVE CRIMINOLOGY AND CRIMINAL JUSTICE | Credits: 90 Not compulsory: | The MA in Creative Music Technologies degree is a skills conversion programme. The programme is aimed at graduates, with musical abilities, who would like to explore musical applications of technology. The programme accepts graduates from any primary degree. The programme is concerned with a range of areas relating to music technology, including composition, sound recording and engineering, computer music programming, and acoustics. The MA offers full use of computer resources at the Music Technology Labs at Maynooth University; access to studio space, with the possibility of working towards recording and production projects; opportunities to have compositions performed; individual tutorial time with a designated advisor; expert advice on musical and technical issues from composers and researchers at the cutting edge of their fields. Click here for brochure Creative Music Technologies Commences September MUE6CM - CREATIVE MUSIC TECHNOLOGIES | Credits: 90 Not compulsory: | The MA in Creative Writing combines workshops and seminars with one-on-one mentoring of writing projects. Students may take optional modules in literature or other creative modules from across the Faculty, such as Writing for Screen Media. Assessment is through shorter pieces of writing, such as craft essays and reflective journals, and a longer project. The MA, taught by award-winning, internationally-renowned writers, will focus on guiding each student to further develop their voice as a writer, as well as to enrich their existing interests as a writer with new perspectives and a grasp of stylistic approaches. Tactics for editing and revision will be taught in tandem with generative exercises and practices aimed at deepening each student’s relationship to their creative process. Students will have the opportunity to build and develop networks which will sustain their writing practice beyond the MA degree.
** Commencing September 2022 ** Note: Indicative content, subject to change ENCWF6 - CREATIVE WRITING | Credits: 90 Not compulsory: | This one-year (full-time) MA advances practical, research, and writing skills while deepening creative and critical engagement with media of all kinds. The core module in Critical and Creative Media Research develops transferable research, writing and analytical skills, while optional pathways take students through Irish media history and contemporary media archives; creative interactive computing and digital identities, and writing for screen media and screen production. Students will be offered the flexibility to pursue traditional scholarly and practice-based research, with most modules permitting a combination of critical and creative assessment options. Electives in Anthropology, Irish, Sociology, Law, and Geography are available for students keen to explore the interdisciplinary character of media. Commences September MDCF6 - CRITICAL AND CREATIVE MEDIA | Credits: 90 Not compulsory: | The Master of Arts: Cultures of Migration explores the multifaceted challenges and potentials created by past and current (im)mobilities in the broad contexts of the production, circulation and transformation of cultural production in Ireland and internationally. This new MA is distinctive in its specific emphasis on the Arts and Humanities as an intellectual and experiential powerhouse for generating transformative responses to the imaginative and meaningful provision of welcome, refuge and sanctuary. It addresses the transnational and transcultural environment of creative/cultural production globally and specifically in Ireland while highlighting the central role of public outreach programmes concerning migration. The Master of Arts: Cultures of Migration is embedded in MU’s strong research and teaching profile in social justice and interculturalism as well as its University of Sanctuary status. It speaks directly to three of MU’s research Themes — People, Place and Environment; Humanities in Practice: Sources, Resources and Discourses and Human Cultures, Experience and Creativity. The course connects rigorous academic investigations with the enhancement of professional skills related to the world of work. In addition to core modules, students can select three options from a range of modules (from the Departments of English, History, Media Studies, Roinn na Nua-Ghaeilge (Modern Irish), as well as the School of Modern Languages, Literatures and Cultures). The modules address the centrality of language and translation, narrative (literary, historical, everyday) and archives, as well as artistic creativity and the imagination, in the negotiation of various issues. These include: human rights and humanitarianism, border-crossing and detention, labour migration and human trafficking, asylum and sanctuary, diaspora and exile, citizenship and rights to the city, social and spatial justice, the construction of ‘race’ and ethnic boundaries, gender and sexuality rights, multiculturalism and interculturalism, transcultural memory and integration, globalisation and cosmopolitics, representation and public discourse. The programme includes a public engagement module that aims at introducing students to a range of practice-based engagements with migration in the cultural sector in Ireland, including attending on-campus talks delivered by practitioners in the field and undertaking off-campus observation of specific activities in relevant institutions. CFACMF6 - CULTURES OF MIGRATION | Credits: 90 Not compulsory: | We live in a moment where the key discourses which have dominated our understanding of the world – of politics, economics and culture at large – suddenly seem inadequate to the task of engaging with an allegedly ‘post-truth’ environment. New discourses are struggling to emerge; some old ones appear once again to be urgently relevant. The political challenges now confronting us are urgent and manifold, and demand serious critical thinking. These include: inequality, migration, climate change, neo-imperialism, neo-nationalism and isolationism, the exploitations and depredations of global capitalism and resurgent misogyny and racism. The MA in English: Literatures of Engagement addresses this sense of crisis by recognising the significant role that literature – and the critical discourses associated with the study of literature – have in both reproducing and analysing cultural values and ideologies, but also in articulating responses and resistance to those. The programme is underpinned by a conviction that any critique of contemporary culture must be rooted in an informed understanding of historical currents shaping the present. The faculty in the Department of English at Maynooth is particularly well placed to reflect on our current cultural moment, having an established an international reputation for producing radical and politically-engaged cultural criticism. The programme will equip students to question the governing and normative structures of their society, critically confronting those discourses through which they are guided to think of themselves as entrepreneurial subjects rather than as human beings. It will help students to develop skills in creative critical thinking and argument, promote intellectual curiosity and excitement, and affirm the intrinsic and non-instrumental value of education as a social good. Students will benefit from the instruction of committed and energetic scholars working at the forefront of their fields, with research specialisms which include Irish Studies, American, African and comparative literature, Renaissance Studies, and digital humanities. Their work addresses questions of: ecology; economy; diversity; gender, sexuality and race relations; borders; citizenship; terrorism; sovereignty; imperialism; migration and refugees. These questions are addressed using an intersectional model, drawing on key currents in literary and cultural theory: postcolonialism, feminism and gender studies, Marxism and ecocriticism. Through their choice of elective modules and a dissertation topic, students will have the opportunity to pursue their specific research interests. The MA in Literatures of Engagement will develop its students’ skills in critical analysis, argument, persuasion, and communication, and equip them with the ability and initiative to be engaged, responsible, and informed global citizens. ENLEF6 - ENGLISH: LITERATURES OF ENGAGEMENT | Credits: 90 Not compulsory: | Overview The MA in European History is offered as a one-year full-time programme. It introduces participants to wider debates in European history and prepares them to complete a minor research thesis in conjunction with taught modules. The breakdown for this programme is 60 credits relating to taught modules and 30 credits relating to the thesis. Participants are offered a mix of required and optional modules. Compulsory taught modules familiarise participants with significant contributions to the field and major historiographical debates in early modern and modern European history from 1500 to the present, currently including the history of genocide, the two World Wars, and cultural history. Participants may also choose optional modules from other taught MAs within the Department and may undertake language courses. Participants commence independent consultations with their supervisor on a proposed thesis during the first semester, concentrating on research and writing for the minor thesis in the second. A total of 30 credits are awarded for the thesis, with an option to conduct additional independent readings guided by their supervisor. MA participants are also encouraged to collaborate with fellow postgraduates and departmental staff at social occasions, seminars and conferences. There are limited opportunities for well-qualified candidates to act as a tutor in the undergraduate programme, enabling them to gain valuable teaching experience. Assessment is through a mix of written assignments, in-class participation and presentations. Participants also develop an extended thesis on a topic agreed upon with the supervisor and subject to departmental guidelines. For the thesis, emphasis is on independent study in close consultation with the supervisor. Taught modules are conducted during the week according to the regular student timetable. HYEHF6 - EUROPEAN HISTORY | Credits: 90 Not compulsory: | The taught MA in French is aimed at graduates with a primary honours degree in French, with a minimum of 2.2 or equivalent, who have spent a year in France, or who have equivalent expertise in French language. It is designed for graduates of French who wish to take their study of French language, literature and culture to a deeper level and to enhance their language skills. A significant proportion of the course is delivered and assessed through French. Core teaching involves modules on writing and presentation skills in French, practical translation and research methodology. The course is designed around the theme of writing and exile, a topic that corresponds to departmental research expertise in the modern and early modern periods. There are elective modules (taught through English) in women's writing, translation studies and conflict studies. The minor thesis (15,000-20,000 words) involves independent research and collaboration with a supervisor on an agreed subject. It is possible to study modules of particular interest without completing a Masters degree or to exit with a Postgraduate Diploma (Level 9) in French after completing 60 credits of taught modules. Commences September FRE600 - FRENCH | Credits: 90 Not compulsory: | The MA in Geography is designed for students who wish to deepen their understanding of key geographical ideas and themes, develop their critical thinking skills, undertake independent research in an area of specialist interest, and significantly enhancing their professional skills. The MA in Geography offers a wide-ranging programme of taught modules so students can choose what classes best suit their interests and career goals. The programme is designed to develop critical spatial thinking, deepen specialist knowledge, and strengthen employability skills from a human geography perspective. Through this Programme, students will become familiar with a range of geographical perspectives applied to critical societal and environmental challenges, including decarbonisation, migration, mobility and housing. Through its publicly engaged research, the department has developed an extensive network of public engagement partners. The MA provides unique public engagement opportunities with these civil society partners through its innovative and immersive modules. Student will work together with these partners to collaborate and develop real-world projects. Our research-led and community-partnered teaching and learning approach has been recognised nationally by the Irish University Association. It is available as both a full-time (1 year, MHN60) and part-time (2-year, MHN61) basis. For the part time programme (MHN61) please click on this link Commences September
Note Students should not register for any GY699xx module without first gaining approval from the MA Geography Director, E: karen.till@mu.ie. GYE600 - GEOGRAPHICAL ANALYSIS | Credits: 90 Not compulsory: | The MA in Geography: Spatial Justice is designed for students who wish to deepen their understanding of critical geographical ideas and themes and apply this knowledge to the most pressing societal and environmental challenges of the 21st century. Students will be empowered to think geographically, to develop their critical thinking skills, undertake independent research in an area of specialist interest, and significantly enhance their professional skills. Through this Programme, students will become familiar with a range of geographical perspectives on justice, including spatial, environmental, health and place-based justice. Through cutting-edge research modules, they will apply these perspectives to specific problems and case studies, including decarbonisation, migration, mobility and housing. Through its publicly engaged research, the department has developed an extensive network of public engagement partners. The MA provides unique public engagement opportunities with these civil society partners through its innovative and immersive modules. Student will work together with these partners to collaborate and develop real-world projects. Our research-led and community-partnered teaching and learning approach has been recognised nationally by the Irish University Association. The MA in Spatial Justice can be taken either full time (1 year, MHN66) or part time (2 years, MHN67). For the part time programme (MHN67) please go click here. GYSJF6 - GEOGRAPHY: SPATIAL JUSTICE | Credits: 90 Not compulsory: | The MA in German aims to provide students who already have a background in German at undergraduate level with an opportunity to specialise in the areas of translation, literary analysis and applied linguistics at a postgraduate level. The programme introduces students to academic research, new ideas and approaches. It aims to equip students with academic, analytical, creative and reflective skills in order to foster interest and involvement in research in the field of German Studies. It aims to enhance students’ knowledge and understanding of important concepts in German language and literature (including their didactic and methodological application), culture and society. It is possible to study modules of particular interest without completing a Masters degree or to exit with a Postgraduate Diploma (Level 9) in German after completing 60 credits of taught modules. Commences September GNE600 - GERMAN | Credits: 90 Not compulsory: | The full time MA Degree in International Development is a 1-year taught masters level programme designed to prepare participants for work in international development in a community, local government, youth/adult education or NGO setting. It offers learners an opportunity to explore contemporary theories of social change and development and to analyse development policies and practices. It builds skills, especially in relation to critical reflection, research, leadership and working with groups and in the planning, management and evaluation of development projects. It is aimed at advanced level participants who hold a primary degree or equivalent qualifications and who have experience of working in a development context in Ireland or in other countries in the Global North or South. Particularly welcome are leaders, facilitators and managers of community development projects, government and development agency staff, people involved in pastoral ministry, researchers, development educators, volunteers and activists. This course is also relevant to academics in the countries of the Global South engaged in teaching and research in development. Places are also retained for recent graduates who wish to study further before embarking on a career in development work. Learners can specialise within the programme by choosing from a number of elective areas that are most suited to their area of interest. The MA in International Development applies a learner-centred, participative approach to learning. This, combined with the diverse groups of full and part-time learners, creates a unique learning environment that builds on both the diverse array of experiences of participants and on the knowledge and experience of facilitators and instructors. Commences September
- Modules indicated with a 'D' at the end of the course code are the online/distance learning version.
- Students must take the compulsory modules marked plus the following:
- KD637 or KD634D - KD605 or KD605D - KD606 or KD606D The balance of credits should be selected from the remaining optional modules available. KDF6 - INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT | Credits: 90 Not compulsory: | The Master’s programme in Peacebuilding, Security and Development Practice offers a rewarding learning experience for those who wish to work in development and peacebuilding in conflict or post-conflict contexts. Integrating negotiation skills with an analysis of wider conflict and development issues, it provides participants with critical insight into the spectrum of international conflict intervention. This includes theory, strategies and practices which range from addressing resource conflict and the use of negotiation tools in the wake of climate change, to the role of governments, business and civil society in participatory peace processes. It explores issues around gender and conflict, racism and human rights; and it addresses security concerns which arise from poverty, exploitation and global economic crises. Drawing on insights from peace education, human security and community development processes, it challenges top-down imposed solutions and examines what’s involved in participatory, community-led processes of change. It draws together insights and analysis from different conflict and development situations, as well as from diverse experiences and perspectives on peace and security. Through it, participants develop the understanding, knowledge and skills they need to play an active and leadership role in peacebuilding, security and development in a variety of situations. The main theme of the programme is an integrated and comprehensive approach to the nexus of peacebuilding, security and development. With increased awareness of the importance of these interlinkages has come increased demands on national and international institutions to respond in a holistic way. When responding to conflict, security actors are required to have a better understanding and greater skills in engaging with communities, institutions and organisations at the local level, while development practitioners recognise a skills-deficit with respect to conflict resolution and mediation. They need to understand and engage with representatives of multifaceted agencies and communities, particularly when anticipating or responding to the consequences of complex crises. The MA in International Peacebuilding, Security and Development Practice offers participants a unique learning opportunity to engage deeply with these issues and to develop the skills they need to address them. It draws on a range of experienced lecturers, who have extensive experience in development, peacekeeping/peace-making or security in international settings. Through this Master’s programme, participants will develop: - Their understanding of violent conflict and its impact on human security and development.
- Insight into the processes involved in realising integrated and comprehensive responses to peacebuilding and development in complex contexts.
- Analytical and problem-solving skills, along with innovative and creative solutions, which can be applied in the resolution of a wide range of violent conflicts.
- Ability to negotiate and to engage people in participatory development processes which enable people to reach agreement.
- Knowledge of international institutional mandates, policies and guidelines pertaining to interventions in violent conflict.
- Research skills and primary research experience in the interconnected fields of international peacebuilding, security and development practice.
- Modules indicated with a 'D' at the end of the course code are the online/distance learning version.
- Students must take the compulsory modules marked plus the following:
- KD606 or KD606D - KD631D, or KD637, or KD634D The balance of credits should be selected from the remaining optional modules available. KDIPF6 - INTERNATIONAL PEACEBUILDING, SECURITY AND DEVELOPMENT PRACTICE | Credits: 90 Not compulsory: | This programme enables students to examine and research the rich subject area of Irish history from the earliest times to the present day, and to assess the major events which led to the emergence of modern Ireland.
Compulsory modules provide students with an in-depth knowledge of the sources and resources at their disposal to undertake a piece of detailed research, and foster their ability to assess and understand the major debates and controversies that have engaged historians in writing Irish history. In addition, students choose from a suite of optional modules drawn from this and other MA programmes within the department, exploring key issues and debates associated with their chosen fields. Options vary from year to year and may include: Irish social, political, military or economic history; historic houses and landed estates; local history, etc. Students also have an opportunity to complete a minor thesis in their chosen field. Commences September HYIF6 - IRISH HISTORY | Credits: 90 Not compulsory: | This MA is designed for students who are interested in traditional music, arts, and culture, including the broader areas of literature, language, and history, and who want to develop their interests in performance, creativity or research. The MA is anchored by a final capstone project (choosing from options in performance, recording, and thesis) and provides specialist training in the areas of student choice. Click here for brochure Irish Traditional Music September entry MUE60T - IRISH TRADITIONAL MUSIC | Credits: 90 Not compulsory: | DEEF6 - LEADERSHIP, MANAGEMENT & DEFENCE STUDIES | Credits: 90 Not compulsory: | ‘Local History’ is the study of a particular place or region in the past, including its people, culture and events. It is the foundation upon which a sense of community and belonging is built. It examines closely how historic incidents and individuals have affected the development of the region in question, providing a deeper understanding of the past and how it has shaped the present. The MA in Local History at Maynooth University prepares students to research their chosen place, identifying and analysing sources, compiling evidence, structuring a dissertation and producing a final written thesis. An interdisciplinary approach grounded in history draws on complementary fields such as anthropology, archaeology, geography and sociology. This focus on specific places and communities has the potential to uncover previously unknown or overlooked aspects of history, while there is a parallel emphasis on understanding the past in relation to the present.
- programme is re-commencing in September 2023
- the programme structure displayed is indicative content only, subject to change and the programme director should be contacted for further details: michael.l.potterton@mu.ie (01 708 3410)
HYLF6 - LOCAL HISTORY | Credits: 90 Not compulsory: | No linked modules at this time 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. Commences September Optional modules SG601 and SG604 (if students have not studied Old Irish previously) SGF6 - MEDIEVAL IRISH STUDIES | Credits: 90 Not compulsory: | This MA programme provides an in-depth introduction into the disciplines of military history and strategic studies. It aims to immerse students in the study of conflict from the late 1700s to the present-day, providing them with an overview of the development of modern warfare and also the skills necessary to analyse modern conflicts. The programme is taught through a series of modules including “Modern Warfare I”, “Modern Warfare II” and “Strategic & Security Studies”. These modules provide an introduction to the key concepts, theories and debates in this field. No specialist knowledge is required and this MA programme will appeal to anyone interested in history, international relations, security studies and war studies. The programme has attracted international students and significant links have been forged with military academies in the USA, the UK and the Netherlands. Assessment is through a mix of written assignments and in-class presentations. Students also develop a 20,000 word thesis on a subject of their choice. There is much emphasis on independent study.
- programme is re-commencing in September 2023
- the programme structure displayed is indicative content only, subject to change and Dr David Murphy (email: david.murphy@mu.ie; tel: 01 708 6827) should be contacted for further details.
HYMHF6 - MILITARY HISTORY AND STRATEGIC STUDIES | Credits: 90 Not compulsory: | The MA Composition at Maynooth University provides a supportive yet stimulating environment in which to develop your individual compositional style. The focus of the course is the creation of a professional portfolio of compositions, supported by regular one-to-one tuition from the experienced composers in the Department of Music. Core modules in contemporary compositional technique and the study of works and writings of other composers help broaden your compositional focus and allow you to develop your own voice in the exciting world of contemporary music. These activities are complimented by regular talks and consultations with visiting professional composers and opportunities for performance of your works by visiting performers and student ensembles. Click here for brochure MA in Composition September entry MUE60C - MUSIC COMPOSITION | Credits: 90 Not compulsory: | Whether as a stand-alone degree or a stepping stone towards MLitt and PhD research degrees, the MA in Musicology offers you the opportunity to develop as a researcher, deepen your critical and communication abilities, and apply these skills to the study of music history, music and culture and analysis. The programme is delivered by staff with strong international research reputations, active as scholars, performers, and composers. Their diverse expertise includes areas such as: music and film; opera studies; source studies; European art music in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries; music in Ireland; ethnomusicology; popular music; music, gender and sexuality; analysis; and more. Beyond the modules, seminars and showcase outlined in the Course Structure, MA in Musicology students may also attend conferences, concerts and other events that Music Department staff regularly organise. Students also benefit from a first-rate library, access to the University’s language courses and close proximity to Dublin, enabling access to a further range of research libraries and archives. The coordinator of this degree is Dr Laura Watson. See the Department’s webpage www.maynoothuniversity.ie/music/our-people for full details of staff interests. Click here for brochure MA Musicology Commences September
Students must choose at least 4 of the following modules: MU610A, MU635, MU624, MU647, MU648 and MU649 MUE60M - MUSICOLOGY | Credits: 90 Not compulsory: | Eolas faoin gCúrsa Is féidir an chéim seo a dhéanamh go lánaimseartha (bliain amháin) nó go páirtaimseartha (dhá bhliain). Trí mheán scrúduithe agus tionscnaimh taighde a dhéantar obair na mac léinn a mheas. Bíonn deis ag mic léinn tabhairt faoi thograí sa chleachtas cruthaitheach i réimse na dtaibhealaíon, an traidisiúin bhéil, agus/nó na scríbhneoireachta cruthaithí mar chuid den chúrsa chomh maith más mian leo. Chomh maith leis seo, bíonn rogha ag an mac léinn idir tráchtas (NG699) agus togra sa taighde ealaíonta (NG637). Tá roghanna iontacha ann do mhic léinn sa chúrsa seo laistigh de na conairí éagsúla atá ar fáil dóibh: - Cruinneas, Saibhreas, agus Cumarsáid (Na Meáin)
- Litríocht agus Critic
- Taibhealaíona agus Traidisiúin Bhéil na Gaeilge
- An MA Nua-Ghaeilge ginearálta
Notes: 1. Ní mór do gach mac léinn clárú do NG699 (Tráchtas/Thesis) NÓ NG637 (Togra sa Taighde Ealaíonta) Students must register for either NG699 (Tráchtas/Thesis) or NG637 (Togra sa Taighde Ealaíonta). 2. Students must check with the Head of Department before registering for any modules that are not delivered in Irish. NGE600 - NUA GHAEILGE | Credits: 90 Not compulsory: | The MA in Performance & Musicology degree programme is designed for students with strengths in performance who want opportunities to deepen and extend their skills. The pathway is carefully designed to foster and develop skills in performance and musicology at postgraduate level. The preparation of a dissertation allows students to develop their research skills in an area closely related to their final recital performance. All of this takes place within the rich environment of the Department of Music with its research and teaching strengths in musicology, performance, composition and music technology. Detailed information about the areas of expertise among our academic staff are available here: https://www.maynoothuniversity.ie/music/our-people Professor Fiona M. Palmer is the Director of the MA in Performance in Musicology Programme, see her personal webpage at https://www.maynoothuniversity.ie/people/fiona-m-palmer What You Can Expect: - Funding towards lessons on your instrument/voice.
- Priority access to practice room facilities.
- Regular rehearsal time with an official accompanist.
- Regular opportunities to perform in Performance Seminar classes.
- Priority allocation of tutorial time with visiting performers as available.
- Priority inclusion in the Department’s public lunchtime concert series.
- Opportunities to have performances recorded.
- Individual tutorial time with a designated advisor.
- Involvement in Research Seminar presentations in which MA students have the opportunity to present their research and receive feedback.
- Expert advice on interpretative issues from musicologists, performers, composers and music technologists whose research expertise is at the cutting edge of their fields.
Click here for brochure https://www.maynoothuniversity.ie/admin/content/assets/view/46965 September Entry MUE60P - PERFORMANCE & MUSICOLOGY | Credits: 90 Not compulsory: | This MA relates discourses and developments in the history in Western philosophy up to the 21st century. It thus aims at carrying out a serious philosophical analysis of some of the underlying cultural themes and philosophical presuppositions of Western self understanding and contemporary society. Building upon the strengths of critical thinking, systematic reflection, and historical awareness developed at undergraduate level, the programme allows the student to explore thematic concerns of philosophers in the Western tradition from medieval times to the 21st century. The MA degree (Mode I) in Philosophy is taken by examination (100% continuous assessment) and by minor thesis, the topic of which must be approved by the Head of the Department. The dissertation comprises a maximum of 15,000 words, and is assessed by the supervisor and the external examiner. Commences September PHE600 - PHILOSOPHY | Credits: 90 Not compulsory: | This MA relates discourses and developments in the history in Western philosophy up to the 21st century. It thus aims at carrying out a serious philosophical analysis of some of the underlying cultural themes and philosophical presuppositions of Western self understanding and contemporary society. Building upon the strengths of critical thinking, systematic reflection, and historical awareness developed at undergraduate level, the programme allows the student to explore thematic concerns of philosophers in the Western tradition from medieval times to the 21st century. The MA degree (Mode I) in Philosophy is taken by examination (100% continuous assessment) and by minor thesis, the topic of which must be in the subject area of Philosophy of Religion and approved by the Head of the Department. The dissertation comprises a maximum of 15,000 words, and is assessed by the supervisor and the external examiner. Commences September PHRF6 - PHILOSOPHY OF RELIGION | Credits: 90 Not compulsory: | MA PPE brings together at a postgraduate level some of the most important approaches in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics to obtain the necessary abilities and understanding to deal with the challenges of globalisation and a globalised economy, democracy and becoming a responsible citizen, by addressing the intrinsic relationships between these subjects. In addition to the core module, students are required to take a minimum of 10 credits in taught modules in each of the three subject areas: Philosophy (PH-code modules), Politics (SO-code modules), and Economics (EC-code modules). Modules from the Department of Law are used to enable the students on an interdisciplinary level to engage with the practical political, social, and economic challenges faced by society today. Philosophy, Politics and Economics overlap not only in the university, but also in public policy, business, and commerce. The intellectual dexterity and versatility that emerges from a training and grounding in these three overlapping and cognate disciplines is an enormous professional, intellectual, and vocational asset, valued and recognized by governments, policy makers, enterprises, and employers. It enables one to act effectively under guidance in a peer relationship with qualified practitioners; lead multiple, complex, and heterogeneous groups.
Notes 1. Students must take at least 10 credits in each discipline (Philosophy, Politics, Economics). 2. Students with a non-Economics background may take two undergraduate level Economics modules (coded as EC2xx or EC3xx). 3. Students are required to take either EC690 (dissertation in Economics) or PH699 (dissertation in Philosophy) or SO690 (Thesis in Politics). 4. All students should consult with the course directors before registering to confirm their registration choices. PPEF6 - PHILOSOPHY, POLITICS AND ECONOMICS | Credits: 90 Not compulsory: | The M.A. Sociology (Digital Societies) is new in 2022 and introduces students to the latest theories and research to understand contemporary digital societies. It is no longer possible to talk about offline and online social life as if they were separate domains; they are increasingly enmeshed in all areas of our lives, from education and work to leisure and politics. The focus of this MA course is on the digital in all its manifestations, from digital media to embedded digital technologies in our homes, cities, health care and personal lives. While issues of access to digital networks remain for many, social science research has identified a range of emerging digital inequalities that also need to be tackled. We are witnessing new forms of digital and data inequalities, issues related to online safety and issues related to information quality and disinformation. These digital inequalities are marked by gender, race, ethnicity and class. They are marked by new patterns of inclusion and exclusion with implications for how societies evolve. The digital also offers new possibilities for societal transformation, for connecting people and spaces in new ways, for rethinking how we do research. This MA will equip graduates with the conceptual tools to understand digital societies and the advanced research skills to document, visualise, present and communicate your research findings. You will receive training and time to bring your quantitative, qualitative and digital research methods skills to a more advanced level, including time in computer labs and our data studio module using primary and secondary data. An important aspect of this advanced training is to interrogate the ethical challenges raised by conducting social science research in the digital age – when data appears to be available everywhere. Small group discussions, presentations, computer lab workshops and fieldtrips are at the core of the MA experience. Students will have opportunities to work on funded research projects and to engage in co-developing projects with our partners which include community and activist groups, public sector organisations, local councils, and companies. If you enjoyed your first experiences of conducting research in your undergraduate and want to improve your research skills. If you would like to learn how to conduct social science research and learn from, and with, top international researchers. And if you are concerned with social and digital inequalities and want to find solutions to these challenges. Then this is the MA for you.
Commencing September 2022 SODSF6 - SOCIOLOGY: DIGITAL SOCIETIES | Credits: 90 Not compulsory: | MA students will: - Develop their ability to apply theories of social change to empirical investigation
- Enhance their ability to communicate effectively through regular class presentations and discussions.
- Receive a grounding in sociological methods and will be supported in using these methods in their dissertation work.
- Gain an enhanced understanding of the economic, social, political and cultural dimensions of Irish society in comparative perspective.
- Be provided with a comprehensive overview of the processes giving rise to social change and the challenges faced by societies in transition.
The course involves 6 x 10 credit modules over two semesters and the completion of a thesis (30 credits). Classes are timetabled on a Thursday and Friday. See our website for our MA handbook. SOSTF6 - SOCIOLOGY (SOCIETIES IN TRANSITION) | Credits: 90 Not compulsory: | The MA in Spanish and Latin American Studies aims to provide students who already have a background in Spanish Studies at undergraduate level with an opportunity to develop their interest in and knowledge and understanding of the language, literatures and cultures of the Spanish-speaking world. As well as increased linguistic and intercultural competence, the programme also offers students the opportunity to develop their awareness of a variety of theoretical approaches to critical analysis; to broaden their intellectual experience; to improve their intercultural and communication skills; and to develop their transferable skills, such as research skills, presentation skills, teamwork, organisation skills and time management. It is possible to study modules of particular interest without completing a Masters degree or to exit with a Postgraduate Diploma (Level 9) in Spanish & Latin American Studies after completing 60 credits of taught modules. SPALF6 - SPANISH & LATIN AMERICAN STUDIES | Credits: 90 Not compulsory: | | |