MATURE APPLICATIONS 2023
CAO application closes on February 1st 2023. Apply to the CAO before January 20th for a reduced fee. See tabs below for more information!
Contact us in Admissions if you require further information.
Non-EU mature applicants should contact the International Office.
A mature student applicant is a person 23 years or older by 1st January in the year of entry to the University. For part-time degrees the mature age is 21. There is no upper age limit; we currently have students who range in age from 23 to over 70. Up to 250 mature students begin their studies here each year. Many of our mature entrants undertake preparatory studies in advance of gaining admission.
Mature students apply on the basis of their ‘mature years’. This means that entry to the University is granted on the basis of experience to date – academic, life experience and work history. However mature applicants do need Leaving Certificate for entry into BEd (MH001, MH002) and must meet matriculation requirements (but are not competing on points).
(Non-EU mature applicants should contact the International Office for details).
Application for 2023 entry to our level 8 degree programmes for all EU applicants is via the CAO. Application for 2023 entry opens in November.
Maynooth University greatly values the particular contribution of mature students to the academic and social environment of the University.
Mature candidates are eligible to apply for all undergraduate degree courses at Maynooth University. Apply to the CAO before February 1st. Reduced application fee up to January 20th. Academic departments contact applicants in mid-March usually - via email as per CAO application - regarding entrance test, where applicable. Please ensure that you check your SPAM folder.
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MH001 BEd Bachelor of Education - Primary Teaching
MH002 BEd Bachelor of Education - Primary Teaching (Gaeltacht Applicants)
MH003 BA Early Childhood Teaching & Learning (Full Time)
MH004 BA Early Childhood Teaching & Learning (Flexible)
MH101 Bachelor of Arts
MH103 BMus Bachelor of Music – Restricted course
MH106 BA Psychology
MH107 BSocSc Social Science
MH109 BA Media Studies
MH116 BSocSc Community and Youth Work (full time) – Restricted CAO course
MH201 BSc Bachelor of Science
MH202 BSc Biotechnology
MH203 BSc Biological and Geographical Sciences
MH204 BSc Physics with Astrophysics
MH206 BSc Theoretical Physics and Mathematics
MH207 BSc Data Science
MH208 BSc Biological and Biomedical Sciences
MH209 BSc Psychology (through Science)
MH210 BSc Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Chemistry
MH212 BSc Science or Mathematics or Computer Science and Mathematics (with Education)
MH304 BSc Bachelor of Electronic Engineering
MH305 BSc Product Design
MH306 BSc Robotics and Intelligent Devices
MH401 BA Finance
MH402 BSc Quantitative Finance
MH403 BA Accounting and Finance
MH404 BBS/BBA Business and Management - BBS/BBA International Business - BBS/BBA Marketing - BBS/BBA Business and Global Cultures
MH407 BBS/BBA Business and Accounting
MH409 BBA Business and Languages
MH411 BBS/BBA Entrepreneurship
MH412 BSc/BBA Business with Sport Science
MH415 BSc Economics
MH416 BA International Economics
MH501 LLB (Law)
MH502 BCL (Law and Accounting or Business or Criminology or Arts)
MH601 BSc Computer Science and Software Engineering or Multimedia Mobile and Web Development (through Arts)
MH602 BSc Computer Science and Software Engineering or Multimedia and Mobile and Web Development (through Science)
MH603 BSc Computational Thinking
MH803 BA in Local/Community Studies
MH001 BEd Bachelor of Education - Primary Teaching
Admission is based on your application and/or interview. Mature student applicants must meet the same course requirements as per non mature applicants: at least 3 x H5 and 3 x O6/H7 including a H4 in Irish or have attained level B2 minimum in TEG; O4/H7 in Maths; O4/H7 in English.
Mature applicants who have a disability
If you have a disability or specific learning difficulty (e.g. dyslexia), and require examination support for any written tests that may be required, please submit supporting documentation by 15 March 2023 to the Access Office.
Unfortunately we are unable to consider applications for alternative examination accommodation after this deadline.
Previous Leaving Certificate Qualifications:
Minimum Academic Requirements 2015 – Leaving Certificate Examination
Leaving Certificate Examination 1992 or later
General
· Grade C3 on a Higher Level paper in not less than three subjects
· Grade D3 in three other subjects in accordance with the Rules and Programme for Secondary Schools.
Essential Subjects
· Irish: Grade C2 Higher Level
· English: Grade C2 Ordinary Level or D3 Higher Level
· Mathematics: Grade C2, either Ordinary or Higher Level
Leaving Certificate Examination 1969 to 1991
General
· Grade C on a Higher Level paper in not less than three subjects.
· Grade D in three other subjects in accordance with the Rules and Programme for Secondary Schools.
Essential Subjects
· Irish: Grade C Higher Level
· English: Grade C Ordinary Level or D Higher Level
· Mathematics: Grade C, either Ordinary or Higher Level
Leaving Certificate Examination prior to 1969
To be eligible to apply for the competition, applicants who sat the Leaving Certificate Examination prior to 1969 must hold an Honours Leaving Certificate with Honours in Irish. In English one must have obtained marks equivalent to Grade C at Pass level or Grade D at Honours level. One must also have passed in Mathematics.
Combination of results in different Leaving Certificate Examinations
Applicants may combine results obtained at the Leaving Certificate Examination in different years for the purpose of meeting the academic requirements.
Acceptable alternatives for Irish, English or Mathematics
A pass in a University First Arts examination in Irish, English or Mathematics will be accepted in lieu of the Leaving Certificate Examination/GCE/GCSE requirement for that particular subject.
In the case of Irish, a Grade C in the Matriculation Examination (which existed up to 1992) will also be accepted in lieu of the Leaving Certificate Examination/GCE/GCSE requirement. In addition the following are accepted as satisfying the Leaving Certificate Examination/GCE/GCSE requirement.
· Dioplóma sa Ghaeilge, Maynooth University
· Teastas Eorpach na Gaeilge (TEG) at Level B2, Maynooth University
· Diploma in Arts (Applied Irish), University College Cork
· Dioplóma sa Ghaeilge Fheidhmeach,UCD
· Dioplóma sa Ghaeilge, Level C1, NUIG
· Dioplóma sa Ghaeilge, Level B2, NUIG
· Dioplóma sa Ghaeilge (An Ghaeilge sa Saol Comhaimseartha), University of Limerick
· Diploma in Irish at the University of Ulster
In the case of Mathematics only, a pass in that subject in the Matriculation Examination (discontinued) will also be accepted in 2016 in lieu of the Leaving Certificate Examination/GC(S)E requirement.
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MH002 BEd Bachelor of Education - Primary Teaching (Gaeltacht Applicants)
MH002 is another application route for students who reside in officially designated Gaeltacht Language Planning areas and who use Irish as the normal language of the home (applicants must include their Eircode when applying to MH002). Applicant details are forwarded to the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht to determine eligibility for this route. Entry requirements are the same as per MH001 except H3 Irish required for MH002.
Apply to the CAO before February 1st. Applicants must have a H3 in Irish, O4/H7 English and Maths or equivalent. Applicants must also submit a supplementary information form.
Selection Procedure – specific application and interview process involving Maynooth, DCU and Marino Institute of Education.
Background check by the National Vetting Bureau and a Health Information Form are required.
MH003 BA Early Childhood Teaching & Learning (Full Time)
Application Procedure – apply to the CAO before February 1st.
Selection Procedure – applicants are required to attend an interview.
Background check by the National Vetting Bureau.
The mature age is 23 years or older by 1st January in the year of entry to the University. Admission is based on application and interview. All mature applicants must:
Be at least 23 years of age on or before 1.1.2023 for admission in September 2023
Complete placement in a Tusla notified setting (300 hours per academic year minimum working directly with children aged from birth to six years – own work setting acceptable). In each year students must complete an additional 15 hours in an alternate setting.
Possess sufficient language, literacy, numeracy and ICT skills
Attend for interview if shortlisted
Undertake vetting by National Vetting Bureau
Priority will be given to mature students who have experience of working with young children and who have completed Level 5 and/or Level 6 in early years studies.
Apply to the CAO by February 1st 2023. Late applications from mature students may be accepted after this date - consult the Undergraduate Studies website for updates. Application may not be made to the CAO after May 1st 2023.
Vetting by the National Vetting Bureau required.
Mature students must complete the CAO section for mature applicants fully, indicating clearly past or current studies, and outlining educational goals and objectives. Applicants are assessed on the basis of the information provided on their CAO application form. All questions should be answered in full.
What happens after I have submitted my application?
Mature students who meet the application criteria will be shortlisted and invited to come to Maynooth University in March/April for an interview and will be advised accordingly.
MH004 BA Early Childhood Teaching & Learning (Flexible)
Application Procedure – apply to the CAO via the advanced entry portal.
Selection Procedure – applicants are required to have a level 6 Early Childhood qualification or equivalent. Applicants with this requirement may be given advanced entry admission to the second year of this four year degree. 4 year degree (flexible) Important note: application is via the Advanced Entry portal on the CAO website.
Vetting by the National Vetting Bureau is required.
As this is a flexible degree, the mature age is 21 years or older by 1st January in the year of entry to the University. Admission is based on application and interview. All mature applicants must:
Be at least 21 years of age on or before 1.1.2023 for admission in September 2023.
Applicants with a level 6 qualification in Early Childhood Education and Care may apply for exemption from year 1.
Please note that applications for the BA Early Childhood - Teaching & Learning (flexible) degree (CAO Code MH004) must be made through the Advanced Entry portal on the CAO application website. Mature students must complete the CAO section for mature applicants fully, indicating clearly past or current studies, and outlining educational goals and objectives. Applicants are assessed on the basis of the information provided on their CAO application form. All questions should be answered in full.
Attend for interview if invited
Undertake vetting by National Vetting Bureau
Priority will be given to mature students who have experience of working with young children and who have completed Level 6 in early years studies or equivalent.
Complete placement in a Tusla notified setting (420 hours per academic year minimum working directly with children aged from birth to six years – own work setting acceptable). In each year students must complete an additional placement in an alternate setting.
Possess sufficient language, literacy, numeracy and ICT skills
Apply to the CAO Advanced Entry portal by February 1st 2023. Late applications from mature students may be accepted after this date - consult the Undergraduate Studies website for updates. Application may not be made to the CAO after May 1st 2023.
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MH101 Bachelor of Arts
Application Procedure – apply to the CAO before February 1st.
Selection Procedure - Assessment of application form and an interview (if required). Interviews (where required) explore the applicant's suitability for the degree based on academic preparedness and life/employment experience.
MH103 BMus Bachelor of Music – Restricted course
Mature students must complete the CAO section for mature applicants fully, indicating clearly past or current studies, and outlining educational goals and objectives. Applicants are assessed on the basis of the information provided on their CAO application form and the online video audition for MH103. All questions should be answered in full.
Restricted courses must be added before the February 1st deadline and may not be added during the Change of Mind period. These must be included in your list of course choices before the February 1st deadline. Click here for information about restricted degree courses.
For restricted course MH103 Music applicants will be required to submit an Online Video Audition - please see further information on the Music Department webpages.
Applicants must be able to demonstrate, at audition, a minimum of Grade 6 (ABRSM) on a standard orchestral instrument, piano, organ, classical guitar or voice; traditional Irish instrumentalists of comparable fluency also considered. 3 year degree (4 years with Erasmus/Study Abroad option).
MH106 BA Psychology
Application Procedure – apply to the CAO before February 1st. Quota of 5 places reserved for mature students.
Selection Procedure – written assessment, candidates are shortlisted for interview on the basis of the written assessment. The test for MH106 will determine mathematical aptitude in addition to an essay-type question. Psychological Studies is a subject in the MH101 Bachelor of Arts degree. While there is no transfer option from MH101 into MH106, there are postgraduate pathways for gaining an accredited PSI degree following MH101. Click here for more details.
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MH107 BSocSc Social Science
Application Procedure – apply to the CAO before February 1st. Approximately 30 places reserved for mature students each year.
Selection Procedure – written assessment, candidates are shortlisted for interview on the basis of the written assessment.
The test for MH107 takes the form of “essay-type” questions related to the subject that you intend to study. For preparation applicants should read up on relevant material in the prospectus and also on the relevant academic department’s webpages.
MH109 BA Media Studies
Application Procedure – apply to the CAO before February 1st. Approximately 10 places reserved for mature students each year.
Selection Procedure – written assessment, candidates are shortlisted for interview on the basis of the written assessment.
MH116 BSocSc Community and Youth Work (full time) – Restricted CAO course
Restricted courses must be added before the February 1st deadline and may not be added during the Change of Mind period. These must be included in your list of course choices before the February 1st deadline. Click here for information about restricted degree courses.
Any offer of a place on this programme is subject to a satisfactory background check by the National Vetting Bureau.
As this is a restricted course on the CAO, all applicants to MH116 will be requested to submit a personal statement outlining their reasons for wanting to do this course (in no more than 350 words), two written references and information on work experience.
Applicants are invited for a written assessment in March. Shortlisted applicants are invited to an individual and a group interview in April. All applicants must have relevant and verifiable experience in youth work and/or community work.
Note 1: 50% of places are reserved for appropriately experienced mature students.
Note 2: Any offer of a place on this programme is subject to a satisfactory background check by the National Vetting Bureau.
Applicants are asked to submit the following:
Written assessment
Only candidates shortlisted after the written assessment and submission of personal statement / references will be invited to attend for interview which typically takes place in April.
Preliminary offers pending matriculation results and completion of all procedures, including vetting by the National Vetting Bureau as per the National Vetting Bureau (Children & Vulnerable Persons) Acts 2012-2016, are typically made in late May.
Please contact the Department of Applied Social Studies at 01-708 3743 / 01-708 4574 or email cywrecruitment@mu.ie for further information.
Any offer of a place on this programme is subject to a satisfactory background check by the National Vetting Bureau.
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MH201 BSc Bachelor of Science
Apply to the CAO before February 1st.
You will be invited to sit an entrance test (maths) in March/April.
O4/H7 Leaving Certificate Mathematics or equivalent is recommended.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview.
MH202 BSc Biotechnology
Apply to the CAO before February 1st.
You will be invited to sit an entrance test (maths) in March/April.
O4/H7 Leaving Certificate Mathematics or equivalent is recommended.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview.
MH203 BSc Biological and Geographical Sciences
Apply to the CAO before February 1st.
You will be invited to sit an entrance test (maths) in March/April.
O4/H7 Leaving Certificate Mathematics or equivalent is recommended.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview.
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MH204 BSc Physics with Astrophysics
Apply to the CAO before February 1st.
You will be invited to sit an entrance test (maths) in March/April.
O4/H7 Leaving Certificate Mathematics or equivalent is recommended.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview.
MH206 BSc Theoretical Physics and Mathematics
Apply to the CAO before February 1st.
You will be invited to sit an entrance test (maths) in March/April.
H2 Leaving Certificate Mathematics or equivalent is recommended.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview.
MH207 BSc Data Science
Apply to the CAO before February 1st.
You will be invited to sit an entrance test (maths) in March/April.
O1/H5 Leaving Certificate Mathematics or equivalent is recommended.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview.
MH208 BSc Biological and Biomedical Sciences
Apply to the CAO before February 1st.
You will be invited to sit an entrance test (maths) in March/April.
O4/H7 Leaving Certificate Mathematics or equivalent is recommended.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview.
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MH209 BSc Psychology (through Science)
Application Procedure – apply to the CAO before February 1st.
O4/H7 Leaving Certificate Mathematics or equivalent is recommended.
Selection Procedure – written assessment, candidates are shortlisted for interview on the basis of the written assessment. The test for MH209 will determine mathematical aptitude in addition to an essay-type question. O4/H7 Leaving Certificate Mathematics or equivalent is recommended.
Psychological Studies is a subject in the MH101 Bachelor of Arts degree. While there is no transfer option from MH101 into MH106, there are postgraduate pathways for gaining an accredited PSI degree following MH101. Click here for more details.
MH210 BSc Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Chemistry
Apply to the CAO before February 1st.
You will be invited to sit an entrance test (maths) in March/April.
O4/H7 Leaving Certificate Mathematics or equivalent is recommended.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview.
MH212 BSc Science or Mathematics or Computer Science and Mathematics (with Education)
Apply to the CAO before February 1st.
You will be invited to sit an entrance test (maths) in March/April.
O4/H7 Leaving Certificate Mathematics or equivalent is recommended for MH212 SED.
H4 Leaving Certificate Mathematics or equivalent is recommended for MH212 MED and MCS.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview.
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MH304 BSc Bachelor of Electronic Engineering
Apply to the CAO before February 1st.
You will be invited to sit an entrance test (maths) in March/April.
H4 Leaving Certificate Mathematics or equivalent is required. A Mathematics Exam is available in late August/early September annually for students who have not attained a H4 in Mathematics. In 4th year students specialise in 1 of the following 3 options: Electronic Engineering with Computers, Electronic Engineering or Electronic Engineering with Communications, completing the degree after year 4 with a BE hons.
or
Students with a minimum of 2:2 grade in year 3 may complete years 4 & 5 resulting in an ME in Electronic Engineering. Industrial work experience is only available to students in year 4 of the 5 year Masters. Students may alternatively choose an Erasmus trip or a research internship (subject to availability).
Shortlisted candidates are invited for interview.
MH305 BSc Product Design
Apply to the CAO before February 1st.
You will be invited to sit an entrance test (maths) in March/April.
O3/H7 in Leaving Certificate Mathematics or equivalent recommended.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview.
MH306 BSc Robotics and Intelligent Devices
Apply to the CAO before February 1st.
You will be invited to sit an entrance test (maths) in March/April.
H4 Leaving Certificate Mathematics or equivalent is required. A Mathematics Exam is available in late August/early September annually for students who have not attained a H4 in Mathematics. In 4th year students specialise in 1 of the following 3 options: Electronic Engineering with Computers, Electronic Engineering or Electronic Engineering with Communications, completing the degree after year 4 with a BE hons.
or
Students with a minimum of 2:2 grade in year 3 may complete years 4 & 5 resulting in an ME in Electronic Engineering. Industrial work experience is only available to students in year 4 of the 5 year Masters. Students may alternatively choose an Erasmus trip or a research internship (subject to availability).
Shortlisted candidates are invited for interview.
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MH401 BA Finance
Apply to the CAO before February 1st.
You will be invited to sit an entrance test in March/April. The test for MH401 takes the form of “essay-type” questions related to the subject that you intend to study. For preparation applicants should read up on relevant material in the prospectus and also on the relevant academic department’s webpages.
O4/H7 Leaving Certificate Mathematics or equivalent recommended. 3 year degree (4 years with Erasmus/Study Abroad option). Students who have completed this course have been given exemption from two papers (Financial Accounting and Finance) at Chartered Accountant Proficiency (CAP 1) Examinations.
MH402 BSc Quantitative Finance
Apply to the CAO before February 1st.
Mature applicants will be invited in for a test as part of the application process. The test will have a Mathematics component so applicants will be assessed in Mathematics. You do not need to have a particular Leaving Certificate grade (i.e. qualification) in Mathematics to apply, however an O1/H5 in Leaving Certificate Mathematics (or equivalent) is the minimum level of Mathematics, which will be expected. Following the test applicants may be shortlisted for interview by the School of Business.
O1/H5 Leaving Certificate Mathematics or equivalent recommended. 3 year degree (4 years with Erasmus/Study Abroad option).
MH403 BA Accounting and Finance
Apply to the CAO before February 1st.
You will be invited to sit an entrance test in March/April. The test for MH403 takes the form of “essay-type” questions related to the subject that you intend to study. For preparation applicants should read up on relevant material in the prospectus and also on the relevant academic department’s webpages.
Students who complete this degree are given full exemptions from the Chartered Accountancy Proficiency (CAP 1) Examinations. O4/H7 Leaving Certificate Mathematics or equivalent recommended. 3 year degree. Optional internship/study abroad year between second and third year (subject to availability). In second and third year you study Accounting, Finance, Law and the parts of Economics important to Finance.
MH404 BBS/BBA Business and Management - BBS/BBA International Business - BBS/BBA Marketing - BBS/BBA Business and Global Cultures
Apply to the CAO before February 1st.
You will be invited to sit an entrance test in March/April. The test for MH404 (all degree streams) takes the form of “essay-type” questions related to the subject that you intend to study. For preparation applicants should read up on relevant material in the prospectus and also on the relevant academic department’s webpages.
O4/H7 Leaving Certificate Mathematics or equivalent recommended. 3 year degree. Optional internship study abroad year after 2nd year (subject to availability). Functional disciplines in 2nd year and strategic aspects of business in 3rd year.
MH407 BBS/BBA Business and Accounting
Apply to the CAO before February 1st.
You will be invited to sit an entrance test in March/April. The test for MH407 takes the form of “essay-type” questions related to the subject that you intend to study. For preparation applicants should read up on relevant material in the prospectus and also on the relevant academic department’s webpages.
Students who complete this degree course are given full exemptions from the Chartered Accountancy Proficiency (CAP 1) Examinations. O4/H7 Leaving Certificate Mathematics or equivalent recommended.
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MH409 BBA Business and Languages
Apply to the CAO before February 1st.
You will be invited to sit an entrance test in March/April. The test for MH409 takes the form of “essay-type” questions related to the subject that you intend to study. For preparation applicants should read up on relevant material in the prospectus and also on the relevant academic department’s webpages.
All combinations of Business streams and any language (Chinese, French, German, Spanish) except Accounting with French or Chinese. O4/H7 Leaving Certificate Mathematics or equivalent recommended. Advanced French, German, Spanish: Leaving Cert H4 recommended. Beginner Chinese, French, German, Spanish: no previous study required.Study abroad in 3rd year.
MH411 BBS/BBA Entrepreneurship
Apply to the CAO before February 1st.
You will be invited to sit an entrance test in March/April. The test for MH411 takes the form of “essay-type” questions related to the subject that you intend to study. For preparation applicants should read up on relevant material in the prospectus and also on the relevant academic department’s webpages.
O4/H7 Leaving Certificate Mathematics or equivalent recommended. 3 year degree. Optional internship/study abroad year after 2nd year (subject to availability).
MH412 BSc/BBA Business with Sport Science
Apply to the CAO before February 1st.
You will be invited to sit an entrance test in March/April. The test for MH412 takes the form of “essay-type” questions related to the subject that you intend to study. For preparation applicants should read up on relevant material in the prospectus and also on the relevant academic department’s webpages.
O4/H7 Leaving Certificate Mathematics or equivalent recommended. 3 year degree. Optional internship/study abroad year after 2nd year (subject to availability).
MH415 BSc Economics
Apply to the CAO before February 1st.
Mature applicants to MH415 Economics will be invited in for a test as part of the application process. The test will have a Mathematics component so applicants will be assessed in Mathematics. You do not need to have a particular Leaving Certificate grade (i.e. qualification) in Mathematics to apply, however an O1/H5 in Leaving Certificate Mathematics (or equivalent) is the minimum level of Mathematics which will be expected. Following the test applicants may be shortlisted for interview by the Department of Economics.
MH416 BA International Economics
Apply to the CAO before February 1st.
You will be invited to sit an entrance test in March/April. The test for MH416 takes the form of “essay-type” questions related to the subject that you intend to study. For preparation applicants should read up on relevant material in the prospectus and also on the relevant academic department’s webpages.
O4/H7 Leaving Certificate Mathematics or equivalent recommended. 3 year degree. In second year students study Finance and Economics and can opt to continue their language or take more Mathematics modules. There is an international placement in third year with the final fourth year at Maynooth, taking Finance, Economics and optional language modules. Placement in a company in third year is subject to availability.
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MH501 LLB (Law)
Apply to the CAO before February 1st. The test for MH501 takes the form of “essay-type” questions related to the subject that you intend to study. For preparation applicants should read up on relevant material in the prospectus and also on the relevant academic department’s webpages.
MH502 BCL (Law and Accounting or Business or Criminology or Arts)
Apply to the CAO before February 1st.
You will be invited to sit an entrance test in March/April. The test for MH502 (all degree streams) takes the form of “essay-type” questions related to the subject that you intend to study. For preparation applicants should read up on relevant material in the prospectus and also on the relevant academic department’s webpages.
These degrees are listed on the schedule of approved degrees by The Honorable Society of King’s Inns. In the case of Law and Accounting - graduates are also given full exemptions from the Chartered Accountancy Proficiency (CAP 1) examinations. O4/H7 Leaving Certificate Mathematics or equivalent recommended for Law and Accounting and Law and Business streams.
MH601 BSc Computer Science and Software Engineering or Multimedia Mobile and Web Development (through Arts)
Apply to the CAO before February 1st.
You will be invited to sit an entrance test (maths) in March/April. O3/H7 Leaving Certificate Mathematics or equivalent recommended. Four year degree. Placement in third year subject to availability.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview. Four year degree. Placement in third year subject to availability.
MH602 BSc Computer Science and Software Engineering or Multimedia and Mobile and Web Development (through Science)
Apply to the CAO before February 1st.
You will be invited to sit an entrance test (maths) in March/April. O3/H7 Leaving Certificate Mathematics or equivalent recommended. Four year degree. Placement in third year subject to availability.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview. Four year degree. Placement in third year subject to availability.
MH603 BSc Computational Thinking
Apply to the CAO before February 1st.
You will be invited to sit an entrance test (maths) in March/April. H2 Leaving Certificate Mathematics or equivalent recommended. A science subject is not required. Three year accelerated degree.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview.
MH803 BA in Local/Community Studies
Application Procedure – apply to the CAO before February 1st.
Selection Procedure – candidates are required to attend an interview. All applicants must be 21 years or older on January 1st of the year of entry – mature student intake only.
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Accounting, Business subjects, Computer Science, Criminology, Economics, Finance, Law, Psychological Studies are also available as subjects in the Bachelor of Arts degree MH101. It may be possible for MH101 students to transfer into second year of a related specialised degree (transfer options do NOT include BA Psychology MH106 and BSc Psychology MH209). Transfer potential is on the basis of first year exams (and meeting any other MH101 subject requirements for progression to second year).
For further information or to speak to someone about your options please contact the Admissions Office or contact the Mature Student Officer. Please see below for additional information on the procedure for applicants with disabilities to request examination supports.
Contact the Admissions Office
Contact the Mature Student Officer Emer Sheerin
If you have a disability or specific learning difficulty and require examination support for the written assessments, please complete the Mature and Restricted Entry Examination Supports Request Form and upload your Evidence of Disability documentation.
The closing date for requesting examination supports for mature and restricted entry entrance tests is 15 March. Applications for examination supports after this date will not be considered.
Visit the Disability Office section of this website for further information about the supports we provide.
Non-EU mature applicants should contact the International Office for details about applying to Maynooth University.
International Office
Fees information for non-EU/International applicants - see the flowchart on the Fees Office webpages:
Fees Office - Fees Flowchart
Returning to education?
Mature students who have been out of formal education for some time often benefit from undertaking a preparatory programme. Maynooth University offers three such options, all of which have guaranteed offers of places on relevant courses for those performing well and attaining the required grades. The courses are as follows:
Fees for these Certificate courses are approximately €1000. For the Certificate in Science and Engineering, fees are waived for applicants who qualify for the Back to Education Allowance (BTEA).
1. The Mature Student Office offers a range of supports for mature students including:
Advisory service
The Launchpad Orientation programme
MAP My Way phased induction
Technology Transition programme
A Mature Student Society provides a continuation of peer support, both academic and social, to incoming mature students.
2. Research
Researching the options and selecting the best degree for you is the first step. To make this choice it is essential that you spend some time investigating and researching potential degrees.
Read or request a copy in the post of the Undergraduate Handbook.
Attend our Open Days where you will benefit from mature student talks, subject talks, campus tours, information stands, demonstrations and lab tours. Staff and students are also on hand to answer your questions.
Attend one of our mature student information sessions.
Contact us directly – we are happy to answer any questions you might have.
Mature students may use the CAO Change of Mind facility from May 1st to July 1st to make changes to their degree course choices at Maynooth University (add, delete, reorder your course choices if you so wish).
Restricted courses or courses requiring assessment may not be added during the Change of Mind period however these must be included in your list of course choices before the February 1st deadline.
Restricted courses must be added before the February 1st deadline and may not be added during the Change of Mind period. These must be included in your list of course choices before the February 1st deadline. Click here for information about restricted degree courses.
There are different selection procedures for different degree courses at Maynooth University. Some or all of the following selection methods may apply depending on the course applied for:
Interview only
Written assessment + shortlist compiled for interview
Assessment of application
Further information about assessment requirements available on the Course Finder.
For courses requiring written assessments/tests the relevant department/s will be in contact with applicants directly with details. Assessments/tests will be scheduled towards the end of March/early April. If you have applied for a number of different courses, you will be invited to participate in a number of different assessments. Mature assessments/tests are likely to be administered remotely for 2023 entry.
Science degrees at Maynooth University require an aptitude in mathematics and science. For entry to the Faculty of Science and Engineering all candidates are expected to be able to demonstrate a motivation and aptitude to study science. This may be evidenced by previous studies in mathematics and science.
For mature students who wish to study for a degree in Engineering, a strong aptitude in mathematics is required.
The Maynooth University Certificate in Science provides a route for mature students, who may have been out of education for a number of years, to progress to studying Science and Engineering at degree level in Maynooth University.
All candidates are required to satisfy the University's English language requirement. Candidates whose first language is not English may satisfy the requirement through any of the following:
1. NUI Matriculation: English at Level 4 or above, before 1985; at Level D or above, in or after 1985
2. NUI Certificate in English language studies (currently awarded at Shannon College of Hotel Management)
3. Leaving Certificate: English at Grade D ordinary Level as a minimum4. QQI/FETAC ESL: Merit in the module “English as a Second Language” or "Communication"
5. University of Dublin (Trinity College): English Composition (not English Literature) at Pass Level as a minimum
6. UK examining boards/bodies:
· GCE O Level English Language at Grade C or above
· GCSE English Language at Grade C or above
· GCSE English Literature at Grade C or above
· GCSE Grade 1 Pass in English
7. EU countries’ matriculation examinations: matriculation examinations from European Union countries where English is presented as a subject and an acceptable level is achieved
8. The following standard in English language examinations set by certain examination boards – any one of:
Assessments and Qualifications Alliance (AQA) C or above
Oxford Cambridge and RSA Examinations (OCR) C or above
Edexcel Foundation C or above
University of Cambridge Local Examination Syndicate (UCLES) C or above
English Test for Academic and Professional Purposes (ETAPP): grade C1 or better (CEFR Level C1 or C2)
9. Norwegian Certificate of Upper Secondary Education: a score of 4 or higher in English in the First Part 20
10. Hong Kong Education Examination Authorities
· Hong Kong Certificate of Education, English Language Syllabus B grade C or better
· Hong Kong Examination Authority, Advanced Level Use of English grade C or better
11. Sri Lankan National Certificate in English Pass level or better
12. Other English language examination
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Internet based: minimum score of 90 with a score of at least 20 in each Section. Paper based: minimum score of 600 with Test of Written English at 475+ Must be single sitting.
Test of English for International Communication (TOEIC). A minimum score of 750
International English Language Testing System (IELTS). An average score of 6.5 over all components and a minimum of 6.00 in each band. NB must be Academic version
University of Cambridge:176+ on Cambridge English scale with no less than 169 in each skill and use of English i.e.Proficiency Certificate, Grade C or better (CEFR Level C1 or C2)Advanced Certificate, Grade C or better (CEFR Level C1 or C2) First Certificate, Grade A (CEFR Level C1).
It should be noted that these are the minimum requirements in English and that faculties/colleges may set higher requirements. This information may be subject to change. Contact the Deputy Admissions Officer for further details.
Applications are invited from mature applicants presenting QQI qualifications. Click here to see list of linked courses. In early August after the release of QQI results, places are allocated on the basis of merit, irrespective of age. You may also be assessed earlier in the year as part of the normal mature selection process.
If you are applying for mature entry to primary teaching in Dublin City University, Marino Institute of Education, Mary Immaculate College Limerick or Maynooth University:
you must apply to CAO by 1st February at 5pm and list MH001 anywhere on your list of preferences.
In March, those meeting the eligibility criteria will be sent an email (to the email account registered to their CAO account) with instructions for completing and submitting a supplementary form.
Only eligible applicants will be called for interview (where a portion of interview will be conducted in the Irish language) and arrangements for interviews will be administered by colleagues in DCU regardless of where the applicant has applied to.
For further information please contact the Admissions Office or the Froebel Department of Early Childhood and Primary Education.
Where there is a mathematics or language requirement at Leaving Certificate above the pass (O6) level, mature applicants may be required to demonstrate to the relevant academic department that they possess the required competency.
1. Applicants wishing to appeal the outcome of an interview for admission to MH101 Arts are required in the first instance to write to the Admissions Office indicating the grounds for their appeal.
2. The appeal is considered by the Admissions Officer/Assistant Registrar in the first instance. In the event that Admissions Officer/Assistant Registrar was on the initial panel, then the Mature Student Officer will review the appeal.
3. The nature of the appeal may require an initial review of the scoring to ensure that the outcome was the intended outcome by the initial board.
4. The Admissions Officer/Assistant Registrar will review the appeal and in that will review the initial application, interview notes and scores, and seek reference(s). Based on these a decision is made on the appeal.
5. Appeals beyond step 4 are made to the Dean of Arts, Philosophy & Celtic Studies or the Dean of Social Science. This step will be the first stage of appeal if both the Admissions Officer/Assistant Registrar and the Mature Student Officer were members of the initial interview panel.
6. Appeals beyond step 5 are made to the Registrar, who reviews the process and outcomes.
7. The decision of the Registrar is final.
8. All appeals are logged in the Admissions Office and the relevant actions on each is recorded for review on an ongoing basis.
1. Applicants wishing to appeal the outcome of a test or interview for admission to any of the Science Degrees are required in the first instance to write to the Admissions Office indicating the grounds for their appeal.
2. The appeal is considered by the Admissions Officer/Assistant Registrar in the first instance. In the event that Admissions Officer/Assistant Registrar was on the initial panel, then the Mature Student Officer will review the appeal.
3. The nature of the appeal may require an initial review of the scoring to ensure that the outcome was the intended outcome by the initial board.
4. The Admissions Officer/Assistant Registrar will review the appeal and in that will review the initial application, grades from the mature student science test, interview notes and scores, and seek reference(s). Based on these a decision is made on the appeal.
5. Appeals beyond step 4 are made to the Dean of the Faculty of Science & Engineering. This step will be the first stage of appeal if both the Admissions Officer/Assistant Registrar and the Mature Student Officer were members of the initial interview panel.
6. Appeals beyond step 5 are made to the Registrar, who reviews the process and outcomes.
7. The decision of the Registrar is final.
8. All appeals are logged in the Admissions Office and the relevant actions on each is recorded for review on an ongoing basis.