Program Overview

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Introduction to the Masters (MSc) Research Degree

The Masters (MSc) Research degree provides students with rigorous research training and an opportunity to complete an independent research study, presented as a major thesis. This is a 90 credit major research thesis degree, however, you may be required to attend modules which will support and complement your research.

Programme Details

• NFQ Level: 9
• Major Code: X219 (FT) X290 (PT)
• Start Date(s): January, May or September
• The programme enables students to develop their research knowledge and skills whilst completing a major research study under the guidance of an academic supervisor and a research studies panel.
• You will develop your knowledge of a research topic, research methods, literature searching, presentation and publishing skills.
• Successful completion of this programme (following examination) includes submission of a final bound thesis that will be retained in the UCD library.

Research Integrity Training

UCD is committed to the promotion of an environment which maintains the highest standards in relation to its educational mission and research activity. As part of this policy, all new entrants to a research degree programme from September 2019 are required to complete a programme of Research Integrity Training.

Period of Registration

• The period of registration for the Research Masters degree will be not less than 3 trimesters (one year) and not more than 6 trimesters (two years) for a full-time student.
• For a part-time student, the period of registration is not less than 6 trimesters and not more than 12 trimesters.
• Applicants can select to register for either a September, January or May commencement date.

Eligibility Requirements

• Applications for entry to the programme are welcome from those in nursing, midwifery or a health-related discipline.
• Please note the closing date for receipt of full applications.

Application Process

What to do before applying

1. Check your eligibility for the programme.
2. Consider and identify who will be funding your research degree.
3. Contact a potential supervisor before you apply.

How to find a Supervisor

• The following links will guide you to information on research activity in the School, details for Faculty and if you click on their names you can access details on their research profiles, interests and publications.
• View the strategic research priorities of our School
• View our Research Staff Directory

Contacting potential Supervisors

• Once you've identified one or two potential supervisors, you should contact them by email.
• Include your name, academic background, academic awards or highlights, research experience, why the academic member of staff's area of research will match with your research goals, and a research proposal if available.

How to make an application and fee information

• You can apply once you have the agreement of a member of Faculty who has developed your research proposal with you and is supporting your application.
• Applications are made online through UCD Applications.
• Documents to include with your application:
  • A personal statement of 150 - 250 words outlining your reasons for applying.
  • A research proposal of 1500 - 2000 words.
  • Official transcripts of your bachelor's and master's degrees as appropriate.
  • Evidence of meeting the English language requirements (if applicable).
• Please note closing dates and apply as early as possible.

Research Proposal

• Normally a proposal should be between 1,500 and 2,000 words and may include:
  • A working title of the topic area.
  • General overview of the area.
  • Identification of the relevant literature.
  • Key research questions.
  • Aims and objectives.
  • Methodology.
  • Timescale/research planning.
  • Reference List.
• Your research proposal must be developed and approved by a nominating Supervisor in advance of submitting an online application.

Eligibility Requirements and English Language Requirements

• Entry requirements:
  1. The candidate has obtained a minimum of an upper second-class degree or equivalent in a relevant honours Bachelor's degree.
  2. The candidate has obtained a relevant master's degree.
  3. In certain circumstances, the candidate has demonstrated other evidence of academic standing and/or relevant professional experience as satisfies the Governing Board of their suitability for admission to the degree programme.
• English Language Requirements:
  • Candidates whose first language is not English and whose primary degree was obtained in a country where English is not the official language of instruction must provide proof of proficiency in English such as IELTS or TOEFL.
  • The original certificate of completion of an English language test must be enclosed with the application.

Closing Dates for Applications

• January registration: closing date for receipt of full application is November
• May registration: closing date for receipt of full application is March
• September registration: closing date for receipt of full application is June

Assessment of Applications

• Your application and nomination form will be reviewed by the School's Research Degrees Committee to determine your suitability for registration on the programme.
• Only when you have been approved by the College Graduate School Board will you be eligible to register to the programme.