Graduate Research Academy: An tAcadamh Taighde Iarchéime
ToggleStep 1: Check that your research interests align
Start by getting an overview of our research, please review the Research programmes at Maynooth University for contact details in each Department or Research Institute.
To find a supervisor contact here.
Step 2: Check that you have the qualifications required
Start by getting an overview of our research, please review the Research programmes at Maynooth University for contact details in each Department or Research Institute.
To undertake a PhD programme, you must have high honours standard in your primary degree (normally an overall 2.1 honours award at bachelors or master’s level), or present other evidence that satisfies the head of department and the relevant faculty of your suitability. Departments register PhD candidates on a PhD track. Progression within the PhD programme is subject to annual review.
To undertake a Research Masters programme, you must have obtained at least a 2:1 honours award at bachelor's or a master's level, or present other evidence that satisfies the relevant head of department and the relevant faculty of your suitability. However, it should be noted an individual department may require a higher entry requirement.
Step 3: Consider how you will support yourself during your studies
Fees are applicable for the duration of your studies. Indicative fees are available here.
The normal duration for a PhD is four years, it is important to consider how you will support yourself for the duration of the programme. Funding opportunities are available here.
Step 4: Get in contact with a Supervisor
Prior to contacting a potential supervisor, we recommend you develop your research proposal. You should have an outline of your proposed area of interest/research project before contacting a potential academic supervisor. It is important that you are able to relate your research interest to their areas of expertise. Key areas for consideration:
Describe the topic to be investigated
- The aims and objectives of the research
- The central research questions
- Methodology, including for example, experimental, investigate and analytical methids and theoretical frameworks
- The alignment of the proposal project with the academic departments expertise and research areas
- Ethical considerations.
Find potential supervisors by searching the Researcher Directory
Step 5: Submit your application
We are currently in the process of transitioning to our new application portal, which will open in mid-October 2024. If you are interested in applying for one of our Research or PhD programmes, please fill out the expression of interest form here and we will be in touch in due course.