Peace and Development Studies - MA

During this programme, you will: 

• Examine the origins and nature of conflict, and explore academic and policy-based approaches to resolving them. 

• Take a holistic view of peacebuilding, linking it with security, economic, political, and human development. 

• Analyse global case studies to understand how context shapes conflict and resolution. 

• Develop strong research skills, including source analysis, evidence-based reasoning, and research methods academic writing. 

• Learn to present your work in multiple formats, including essays, policy briefs and presentations. 

• Gain practical and theoretical insights to prepare for careers in humanitarian, development, or academic sectors. 

Key Information:  

• Complete full-time in one year or part-time over two years 

• Delivered on campus 

• Modules taught during autumn and spring semesters 

• Submit dissertation at the end of the summer semester 

You will learn through a blend of: 

• Lectures, workshops, and experiential learning 

• Reflective practice and guided research 

• Regular feedback from faculty and peers 

Autumn Semester 

• Graduate Seminar in Development (PO5004) will introduce students to the concept of development and ideas about how it should be pursued.  

• Graduate Research Methods (PO5005) is designed to familiarise students with alternative approaches to the conduct of research in social sciences. 

• One elective module 

Spring Semester 

• Graduate Seminar in Peacebuilding (PO5006) will explore the different conceptions of peace involved in the United Nations and a range of other international bodies and agencies. 

• Research Methods (PO5005): dissertation preparation 

• Two elective modules  

Summer Semester 

• Dissertation (PO5042): Independent research on a topic of your choice 

Elective options include: 

• Contemporary Political Theory (PO5041)
• International Relations (PO4053)
• Institutions and Policies of the European Union (PO6001)
• Public Administration Theory & Practice (PO6041)
• International Cooperation and Conflict (PO5071)
• European Governance (PO5010)
• Representative Democracy in Europe (PO5232)
• Global Justice (PO5222)
• Gender and Politics (PO6032)
• International Political Economy (PO5008)
• Comparative Climate Policy and Politics (PO5252) 

Books and journal articles needed for the course will be available online through the UL Glucksman Library.  

For more information on each module, you can search the faculty, school and module code on UL’s Book of Modules 

• Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree (NFQ Level 8) with at least a second-class honours, grade 2 (2:2) in engineering, computing, mathematics, science or technology discipline, or another discipline where significant maths and computing elements can be demonstrated. 

• The university may shortlist and invite you to an interview.  

Other Entry Considerations: 

We encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet the standard entry requirements, as long as you can show that you have the knowledge, skills, and experience needed for the programme. 

At UL, we value all kinds of learning and support different ways to qualify through our Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy. 

International students:  
  

• For details on country-specific qualifications visit postgraduate entry requirements for international students. 

Checklist of Documents: 

• *Academic transcripts and certificates
  • UL graduates only need to provide their student ID.
• Copy of your birth certificate or passport
• English translation of your qualifications and transcripts 

English Language: 

• English Language Competency certificate
• For details on accepted language qualifications visit English Language Requirements 

Guidelines on Completing your Application  

• To make sure we can review your application quickly, please:
  • Upload all documents. Your application can’t be reviewed until we have all the documents on the checklist.
  • Title the documents you are uploading. For example, "Personal Statement", "Undergraduate Transcript", "Postgraduate Transcript", "English Language Certificate" etc.
• *If you are waiting to graduate, submit your application with the documents you have to date, you don’t need to have finished final exams before applying.

Full-time: 

EU: €7,995, Non-EU: €18,600 

Part-time: 

EU: €4,500 per annum*, Non-EU: €9,900 per annum* 

*Year 2 fees are subject to change 

Annual fees are billed by semester. Once registered, students may be eligible to apply for a monthly payment plan.  

Further information on fees and payment of fees is available from the Student Fees Office website. All fee related queries should be directed to the Student Fees Office (Phone: +353 61 213 007 or email student.fees.office@ul.ie).  

 
Funding 

Find further information on funding and scholarships.. 

This course prepares you for careers in: 

• International affairs
• Conflict management and resolution
• Peace operations
• Humanitarian assistance
• Development aid
• Academic research 

Graduate spotlight 

 
Anne-Marie Callan, now Chargé d’Affaires at the Embassy of Ireland in Sierra Leone, says: 

“The MA is an excellent course because students benefit from taught modules on politics, peace and conflict and development and can pursue an area of research that is of interest in a supportive environment. The course is well recognised and is relevant for employment in a range of development positions.” 

Ruth Feeney, Programme Support Officer at the UNDP in South Sudan, adds: 

“The background the MA programme has given me is invaluable to my ability to work where I am today.” 

Still Curious?  

The team regularly host and take part in webinars to support future students. If you would like to learn more or ask questions at an online information session, click below.     

Online Information Sessions