European Politics and Governance

Entry requirements

• Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree (NFQ Level 8) with at least a second-class honour, grade 2 (2:2) in a social science or related discipline.

• The university may shortlist and invite you to an interview. 

Other Entry Considerations:

We encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet the standard entry requirements, as long as you can show that you have the knowledge, skills, and experience needed for the programme.

At UL, we value all kinds of learning and support different ways to qualify through our Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy.

Months of entry

September

Course content

Are you interested in understanding how decisions are made in Europe and how governance shapes societies?

The MA in European Politics and Governance offers a unique opportunity to explore the dynamics of political power, policy-making, and governance across multiple levels of government.

This one-year, full-time programme provides an advanced understanding of the interaction between public and private actors in shaping European policies. You will examine how national governments and EU institutions, work together in resolving conflicts and to influence outcomes that affect millions of citizens.

Our approach combines theory with practical insights, giving you the tools to analyse complex governance systems and their real-world implications. Whether your goal is a career in public administration, NGOs, media, multinational companies or international organisations, this programme equips you with the knowledge and skills to succeed.

By the end of the programme, you will have developed critical thinking, research expertise, and transferable skills that are highly valued in today’s competitive job market.

• Explore the complex interaction between public and private actors at different levels of government.

• Gain a deeper understanding of the interdependencies between national and European levels of governments.

• Acquire substantive knowledge, along with analytical and transferable skills to pursue a range of potential careers.

• Gain advanced knowledge of EU institutions, policy-making processes, and governance frameworks.

• Complete an independent dissertation on a topic of your choice, supported by expert supervision.

Information for international students

• Postgraduate Entry Requirements for International Students
• English Language Requirements

Email ULGlobal@ul.ie for further information.

Fees and funding

• Scholarships for International Students
• Sports Scholarships