MSc Comparative Social Change

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: For admission to postgraduate programs at UCD, the general entry requirement is a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in the student's previous academic qualifications, such as a bachelor's degree.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual band lower than 6.0.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 90 with no section below Listening 19, Speaking 19, Writing 21, and Reading 19.
• PTE: Overall score of 63 with a minimum of 59 in each section.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Overall score of 120 with a minimum of 110.

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.

UCD offers various scholarships and financial aid options specifically designed to support international students pursuing their education at the university. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, promote diversity, and alleviate the financial burden for deserving students. 

UCD Global Excellence Graduate Scholarship: This merit-based scholarship is awarded to high-achieving international students applying for eligible full-time master's programs. It covers a percentage of the tuition fees for the duration of the program.

UCD Global Undergraduate Scholarship: Intended for non-EU students, this scholarship is based on academic performance and offers financial assistance towards tuition fees for the duration of undergraduate studies.

Regional Graduate Scholarships: UCD provides scholarships targeted at students from specific regions or countries, encouraging diversity and supporting talented individuals from those areas.

UCD Ad Astra Academic Scholarship: This prestigious scholarship is awarded to outstanding students with exceptional academic achievements and offers financial support along with enrichment opportunities.

Sports Scholarships: For students who excel in sports, UCD offers scholarships to support their academic pursuits while actively participating in sports at a competitive level.

UCD Research Scholarships: These scholarships are available to support international students pursuing research-based postgraduate programs, providing funding and opportunities to engage in groundbreaking research initiatives.

Government and External Scholarships: UCD collaborates with various governments, organizations, and foundations worldwide to offer additional scholarship opportunities for international students based on specific criteria and partnerships.

Graduates with an MSc in Comparative Social Change from UCD can pursue diverse career paths, leveraging their interdisciplinary knowledge, research skills, and understanding of societal dynamics.

1. International Development Agencies: Work in international organizations such as the United Nations, World Bank, or regional development agencies on projects related to social change, poverty alleviation, and sustainable development.

2. Nonprofit Organizations and NGOs: Employment opportunities in NGOs focused on social justice, human rights, community development, and advocacy for marginalized groups.

3. Policy Analysis and Advocacy: Roles in governmental bodies, think tanks, or policy institutes analyzing social policies, recommending reforms, and advocating for social change.

4. Research Institutes: Employment in research institutions exploring social issues, conducting studies on societal transformations, and contributing to academic publications.

5. Government Agencies: Work within governmental departments or agencies focusing on social welfare, community development, or international relations.

6. Social Enterprises: Opportunities in socially focused businesses addressing societal challenges while maintaining sustainability and social impact.

7. Academic and Think Tank Research Positions: Pursue further academic research, lecturing, or teaching roles in universities or think tanks focusing on comparative social change studies.

8. Consultancy Roles: Consultancy firms specializing in social impact, public policy, or international development might seek professionals with expertise in comparative social change.

9. Advocacy and Community Organizing: Roles involving grassroots organizing, community development, and social activism to address local or global issues.