Master by Research in Law
A rigorous research-focused master’s programme for legal scholars seeking to advance original scholarship in law.
Best for:Best for legal scholars with a master’s degree in law or equivalent, seeking to conduct original research in specialized legal fields under expert supervision.
Overview
This Master by Research programme at Maynooth University offers a structured yet independent research framework for students aiming to contribute new insights to legal scholarship. Participants engage in original research under supervision, with clear milestones to track progress. The programme is designed for candidates with a strong academic background in law or related fields, who wish to develop advanced research skills and produce a substantial contribution to their chosen legal specialty. It is ideal for those interested in employment law, EU law, human rights, constitutional law, or other legal theory areas. The programme does not require teaching responsibilities but focuses solely on research output and scholarly development.
What you'll do
- Conduct original and rigorous research in a specialized area of law under academic supervision.
- Develop and refine a research proposal aligned with departmental interests and criteria.
- Meet structured research milestones to ensure progress and quality of work.
- Produce a substantial contribution to legal scholarship through independent research.
- Engage with academic literature and contribute to ongoing discussions in the field.
- Present research findings at relevant academic conferences or seminars.
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree in law or a related field. Exceptionally, candidates with a first-class undergraduate degree in law may be considered.
Language: English; proficiency demonstrated via IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 90 (or equivalent) for non-native speakers.
Instruction: English
- Ability to conduct independent legal research
- Strong academic writing and analytical skills
- Proficiency in legal research methodologies
- Familiarity with legal theory and jurisprudence
- Applicants must hold a recognized primary degree equivalent to an Irish university degree.
- No nationality restrictions, but English proficiency is mandatory for non-native speakers.
- No age restrictions or prior experience caps.
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
Admissions not verified
A catalogue listing does not mean applications are open or funding is guaranteed. Check the source for your intake.
- Intake
- Not confirmed by the source
- Duration
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- Teaching language
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- Taught / research mode
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- Study mode
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- Campus
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- Prerequisites
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- Application instructions
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- Tuition
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- Funding
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How to apply
Applicants must first contact the department to discuss their research proposal and ensure alignment with faculty interests. Applications are submitted via the university’s online portal. Non-EU applicants should contact internationaladmissions@mu.ie for additional guidance. No fixed deadline; applications are accepted at any time.
- CV or curriculum vitae
- Research proposal outline
- Transcripts of previous degrees
- Proof of English language proficiency (if applicable)
- Two letters of recommendation
Contact
Postgraduate Admissions· Admissions Support
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