Postgraduate courses

I know there’s more than one type of postgrad - what’s the difference between them?

• Graduate Diploma / Higher Diploma are the same level as an honours degree (level 8).  These usually do not require an honours degree for entry (although there are some exceptions).  Often ’conversion’ courses for those without degrees in the subject. Note: the only ’HDip’ that qualifies you to teach is the Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE).
• Postgraduate Diploma (level 9). 1 year long may require an honours degree. Taught, no thesis involved.
• There are two types of Masters degree – Taught and Research (both level 9):
  Taught – attend lectures and finish the year by doing a dissertation and usually take 1 or 2 years.
  Research – majority of your time is spent researching your thesis and you are examined on your thesis only. These usually take 1-3 years.
• Doctorate (PhD) (level 10) is done by research and will usually take at least 3 years.

How do I find out where I can do the postgrad I’m interested in?

Ireland: search a database of taught postgraduate programmes at www.postgradireland.com, www.qualifax.ie or pick up a copy of Postgradireland Directory in the Careers Information Room.

UK: search online (with a paper version in Careers) at www.prospects.ac.uk

EU and beyond: log on to www.nuigalway.ie/careers/students/courses_abroad.html for links.

Where can I do research in a topic that I’m interested in?

You should contact the relevant departments / research centres in the university of your choice.  Research topics can vary from year to year and so it is best to contact the relevant departments to ensure you can do research on a topic that interests you. 

You can also check textbooks and journal in the library or do an online search.

Prospectuses for the university often outline the broad specialisms of the department/university.

How do I apply for a postgrad?

Contact the Admissions Office of the university that you are applying to – they will confirm closing dates, fees and send out an application form if relevant – many now use online application systems such as www.pac.ie. Link to Irish universities and IT’s at
www.nuigalway.ie/careers/students/pgrad_ireland.html

When is the closing date for postgrads?

Closing dates vary depending on the course and the university, check with each university as there is no central resource for closing dates. 

NUI, Galway closing dates are available online at www.go4th.ie/closingdates/

Most fall between March and June with some exceptions.  Courses to watch out for early are:

1st December - PGDip in Education (NUI Galway, NUIM, UCD, UCC), (TCD).
1st December but apply as early as possible - PGCE (Education) UK through GTTR.
February (usually) - Library & Information Science, Social Sciences, Social Work & Psychology.

Courses are often advertised in the business section of various national newspapers, including Irish Times (Fridays) and Irish Independent (Thursdays).

I have to include a ’Statement of Intent’ with my application, what do I put in it?

This is a great opportunity to show why you have applied for the course.

Read and follow the instructions carefully.

Generally speaking course directors are looking for candidates who are enthusiastic and demonstrate a real interest in studying the subject - refer to the reasons that you chose this particular course and what you plan to do afterwards. 

Any evidence that shows you have the relevant skills and interests required for the course should be included i.e., any relevant project work from your degree course, volunteering, work experience etc.

They also want evidence that you can attain the academic level of the course (your referees should be able to back this evidence up).

See our faq on Personal Statements for more details.

Who to I get as referees?

You are applying for an academic course and so at least one of your referees should be an academic from your current course, preferably both (if two are required) would be academics. A project supervisor would be particularly relevant.

I’ve been called for interview – what will they ask me?

It’s impossible to know exactly what you will be asked; however the following should help. You should know what the course involves and be able to cope with any of the practical elements of the course. Possible questions include:

• Why do you want to study this subject / Why this course?
• Why this university / college / IT?
• What other courses have you considered?
• What aspects of the course interest you the most?
• Why did you pick your degree course?
• What do you want to do after the course / What career do you want after the course?
• Why are you suited to this career/course?
• What qualities do you have to offer?
• What interests/hobbies do you have?
• Describe your strengths/weaknesses.
• When did you first become interested in this course/career?

I’ve been offered a course but I’d like to go travelling first.  Can I defer?

As this depends on the particular course, contact the Admissions Office of the relevant university to check.  If not, you can always apply again next year.  E.g., PGDip in Education does not accept deferrals.

Will my County Council grant follow on to a postgrad?

It’s likely to, however you must contact your County/City Council clarify this.

Do you have to pay fees for postgrads?

Yes.  Postgraduate fees vary depending on the programme www.nuigalway.ie/postgrad/fees/. 
The Admissions Office will have more details.

Some postgraduate courses have reduced fees (e.g., in Information Technology) and other sources of finance may also be possible. 

Some research postgraduate programmes will have studentships which could be advertised at any time of year. See www.nuigalway.ie/careers/students/funding_research.html for adverts and links.
Each university / IT will have a similar page advertising opportunities.

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