MLitt/PhD in Geography Research
Join Maynooth University’s Geography Department for a research-focused master’s or PhD in human, physical, or applied geography.
Best for:Best for geography graduates or related disciplines seeking to specialise in human, physical, or applied geography with strong research interests and a clear supervisor alignment.
Overview
This research-focused programme at Maynooth University’s Geography Department offers both MLitt and PhD pathways, allowing applicants to pursue independent research under expert supervision. The department’s diverse faculty specialise in areas such as human geography (e.g., diasporas, urban regeneration, electoral studies), physical geography (e.g., climate modelling, GIS, remote sensing), and applied geography (e.g., development studies, geopolitics, health geographies). Applicants must identify a supervisor and align their research proposal with departmental expertise before applying. The programme combines original thesis work with mandatory graduate education modules to support academic development.
What you'll do
- Conduct original research in a specialised area of geography aligned with departmental expertise.
- Develop and defend a research thesis under the guidance of a designated supervisor.
- Engage with mandatory graduate education modules to enhance academic and research skills.
- Present research findings at departmental seminars or conferences as required.
- Collaborate with faculty and peers to contribute to the broader research culture of the department.
Requirements
Degree required: Normally a second-class honours degree (upper or first) in Geography or a cognate subject. PhD applicants must also hold a master’s degree in Geography or a related field.
Degree offered: MLitt or PhD
Language: English proficiency demonstrated via IELTS (minimum 6.5 overall), TOEFL (minimum 90), or equivalent.
Instruction: English
- Strong research proposal development skills.
- Ability to identify and contact potential supervisors before applying.
- Familiarity with academic writing and thesis preparation.
- Proficiency in research methods relevant to the chosen geography subfield.
- Applicants must have a recognised primary degree equivalent to an Irish university first degree.
- No nationality restrictions, but English proficiency is mandatory for non-native speakers.
- No age or residency restrictions.
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
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- 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
Deadline: Applications accepted at any time; open for 2026/27 academic year · open until filled
Applicants must first identify and contact a potential supervisor to discuss their research proposal. Applications are submitted via Maynooth University’s online portal. Required documents include a CV, research proposal, academic transcripts, and proof of English proficiency. International applicants should contact internationaladmissions@mu.ie for additional guidance.
- CV
- Research proposal
- Academic transcripts (BSc and MSc if applicable)
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent)
- Two letters of recommendation
Contact
Postgraduate Admissions· Admissions Officer
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