MA Peace and Development Studies

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Typically, a minimum of 60% or above in previous academic qualifications is required for admission.

English Language Proficiency: 

• IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0, with no individual section below 6.0.
• TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 90 with a minimum of 21 in each section.
• PTE (Pearson Test of English): Overall score of 61, with a minimum of 59 in each communicative skill.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Overall score of 120.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It's important to note that entry requirements can vary by program and may change over time. Additionally, some programs may have additional requirements, such as interviews, portfolios, or work experience.

The University of Limerick (UL) is supporting the academic aspirations of international students by offering various scholarship opportunities that recognize academic excellence, talent, and diverse backgrounds.

Merit-Based Scholarships: UL provides a range of merit-based scholarships for international students based on academic achievements, varying from undergraduate to postgraduate levels. These scholarships are awarded to high-achieving students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance.

Country-Specific Scholarships: The university also offers scholarships specifically tailored to students from certain countries or regions. These scholarships aim to encourage diversity and attract exceptional talent from different parts of the world, providing financial support to deserving candidates.

Sports Scholarships: UL values sporting achievements and offers scholarships to international students who excel in sports. These scholarships support athletes pursuing their academic goals while representing the university in various sporting events.

Research Scholarships: For postgraduate students pursuing research-based programs, UL provides research scholarships to support their academic endeavors. These scholarships assist in covering tuition fees, living expenses, and research-related costs.

Graduates from the MA Peace and Development Studies program at the University of Limerick have diverse career opportunities in various sectors.

International NGOs/Non-profits: Graduates can work with international non-governmental organizations focusing on peace-building, conflict resolution, humanitarian aid, and development, serving roles such as project coordinators, advocacy officers, or program managers.

Governmental Agencies: Opportunities exist within governmental bodies, including departments of foreign affairs, international aid agencies, or diplomatic services, focusing on policy development, conflict resolution, or international development initiatives.

International Organizations: Graduates may work in international organizations such as the United Nations, European Union, or regional organizations, contributing to peace-building efforts, policy formulation, or humanitarian missions.

Research/Think Tanks: Careers in research institutions or think tanks involve conducting research on conflict analysis, peace-building strategies, or sustainable development, contributing insights to academic and policy discourse.

Conflict Resolution/Mediation: Graduates can work as mediators, conflict analysts, or peacekeepers in conflict zones, facilitating dialogue, reconciliation, and sustainable peace initiatives.

Humanitarian Work: Opportunities exist in humanitarian organizations, aiding victims of conflicts, providing relief services, and working towards sustainable development in affected regions.

Community Development: Graduates can engage in community development initiatives, working at grassroots levels with local organizations to promote peace, social justice, and sustainable development.

Education/Teaching: Opportunities exist in academia or educational institutions, teaching peace studies, conflict resolution, or global development, shaping future leaders in peace-building efforts.

Policy Analysis/Consultancy: Graduates can work as policy analysts, consultants, or advisors, providing expertise on peace-building strategies, conflict resolution, and international development policies.

Further Academia: Pursuing doctoral studies or research positions in academic institutions, contributing to scholarly work in peace and development studies.