Our MRes programme provides a personalised and focused introduction to postgraduate research allowing you to develop as an independent researcher with the support of an expert in Irish Studies.
Introduction
The Irish Studies MRes degree is particularly appropriate if you are intending to progress to PhD level research. It provides a rigorous overview of the current state of scholarship in your selected field, guides you through a programme of directed, individualised reading, to the selection of a feasible research project, and allows you to complete a substantial piece of research (25,000 – 30,000 words).
This unique program offers you the opportunity to deepen your knowledge of Irish culture, history, language, and literature while developing advanced research skills.
We’re proud to offer a dynamic and diverse learning environment thanks to our influential institute. Our experienced faculty members are passionate about their fields and committed to helping you succeed. You’ll work closely with your professors to develop as an independent researcher exploring a wide range of topics of your choice, from the medieval Irish language to contemporary literature and film.
Our program also provides ample opportunities for practical research experience. You’ll have access to a wealth of resources, including the extensive Irish language and literature collections in our library, as well as archives and museums throughout the region and renowned speakers.
Whether you’re interested in pursuing a career in academia, research, or cultural heritage, our MRes Irish Studies course will provide you with the knowledge, skills, and experience to achieve your goals.
What you'll learn
Advanced research skills, including the ability to conduct independent research, critically evaluate sources and present your findings in written and oral form;
A deep understanding of Ireland’s history, culture, and politics;
Prepare for further research or a career in related fields such as academia, journalism, or cultural heritage.
Course content
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
Semester one
Students study one 30-credit core module and one 30-credit research training module, culminating in a 120 credit dissertation.
Compulsory modules
RESEARCH METHODS (IRIS507)
Credits: 30 /
Semester: semester 1
This module will consist of mixed delivery of independent study, individual supervision by a member of academic staff appropriate to the student’s research area, and group discussion. The flexible online curriculum enables students to explore a variety of critical and methodological approaches to research and to complete their assessment in the areas that are most applicable to their field of study. The presentation on Research Day will develop students’ ability to construct valid and lucid verbal arguments as well as other presentation skills, such as the ability to respond to questions.
Upon completion of the module, students will have begun to develop their dissertation research topic. They will be able to understand the advantages and limitations of the various research methods covered in the module, to identify the most appropriate research methods and sources for their intended dissertation topic, to present their ideas in an academic environment of their peers, and to plan their research effectively.
RESEARCH PROJECT DEVELOPMENT BY DIRECTED STUDY (HLAC503)
Credits: 30 /
Semester: semester 1
In light of the knowledge acquired in your subject / discipline-specific theory module you will be encouraged to consider the appropriate theoretical and methodological approach for your specific research project. Under the guidance of a supervisor with expertise in your research area, you will be guided individually to create and carry through a programme of focused reading which will allow you to develop your knowledge of current approaches to research in your field. Assessment tasks comprise the building blocks necessary for successful completion of your particular project, for example a feasibility study, bibliography or preliminary literature review.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
Semester two
During Semester two you will concentrate on research for your dissertation.
Compulsory modules
HLC RESEARCH MASTERS DISSERTATION (HLAC501)
Credits: 120 /
Semester: whole session
With expert academic advice, guidance and support throughout the academic year, you will produce an original and extended piece of research which will be a contribution to knowledge in your chosen research field. A major piece of independent study, your dissertation project will require you to identify relevant evidence and sources, and interpret and analyse that data in accordance with research best practice and a firm understanding of disciplinary conventions. The dissertation will provide a firm basis for further academic research or for a career within a research environment.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
Summer
You will continue to work on your dissertation over the summer.
Compulsory modules
HLC RESEARCH MASTERS DISSERTATION (HLAC501)
Credits: 120 /
Semester: whole session
With expert academic advice, guidance and support throughout the academic year, you will produce an original and extended piece of research which will be a contribution to knowledge in your chosen research field. A major piece of independent study, your dissertation project will require you to identify relevant evidence and sources, and interpret and analyse that data in accordance with research best practice and a firm understanding of disciplinary conventions. The dissertation will provide a firm basis for further academic research or for a career within a research environment.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
How you'll learn
The programme will use a variety of teaching methods, including one-to-one tutorials, independent study, seminars, and skills development. Tutorials offer personalised guidance, whilst independent study encourages critical thinking. Seminars foster collaboration and skills development exercises help students acquire essential competencies. This diverse approach to teaching ensures that students receive a well-rounded education that accommodates different learning styles.
How you're assessed
You will be assessed through various methods, but the core assessment method will be written essay or report writing, along with coursework essays, presentation/poster presentations, skills development exercises like bibliographies and reports, and the ultimate culmination of their academic journey, the dissertation.
Liverpool Hallmarks
We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.
Your experience
By studying with us you will benefit from our influential Institute of Irish Studies which has played a significant part in Ireland’s recent history. Liverpool has always had strong links with the north and south of Ireland which puts you in a position to enjoy research and voluntary work opportunities.
Support for students with differing needs from the Disability advice and guidance team. They can identify and recommend appropriate support provisions for you.
Why Irish Studies at University of Liverpool?
The Institute has played a significant part in Ireland’s recent history. The Director, Professor Peter Shirlow, has undertaken conflict transformation work in Northern Ireland and has used that knowledge in exchanges with governments, former combatants and NGOs in the former Yugoslavia, Moldova, Bahrain and Iraq
The Institute attracts a high calibre of public lecturers. In recent years, speakers have included President Michael D. Higgins, President Mary McAleese, former Irish President Mary Robinson, Roddy Doyle, Seamus Heaney, John Hume, Peter Mandelson, US Senator George Mitchell and Paul Muldoon
The city of Liverpool has always had strong links with the north and south of Ireland. There are excellent links between the Institute and the the Liverpool Irish community providing opportunities for research aand voluntary work
Exciting events such as the ones for Liverpool Irish Festival. These have included lectures by the authors Blake Morrison and Patrick McCabe, the filmmaker Peter Lennon and the Keeper of Antiquities of the National Museum of Ireland Dr Eamonn Kelly.
This Irish Studies MRes course offers students an in-depth understanding of Ireland, transferable skills, and networking opportunities with businesses, voluntary organizations, and academic leaders in Irish Studies.
Career support from day one to graduation and beyond
The Irish Studies MRes graduates typically continue to doctoral research or gain employment in research or policy-based environments.
Possible career prospects:
Academia and teaching (at both university and secondary levels),
Journalism,
PhD level researcher
Museum work.
Fees and funding
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Tuition fees
UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)
Full-time place, per year
£4,786
Part-time place, per year
£2,393
International fees
Full-time place, per year
£23,400
Part-time place, per year
£11,700
Fees stated are for the academic year 2024/25 and are subject to change for 2025/26. Some MRes courses incur additional bench fees. You will be notified of any fee which applies to you in your offer letter.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.
If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan worth up to £12,167 to help with course fees and living costs. Learn more about fees and funding.
Additional costs
Please note, this programme may have additional costs associated with it depending on your choice of a lab or computational/fieldwork-based project.
We accept a 2:2 honours degree from a UK university, or an equivalent academic qualification from a similar non-UK institution. This should be in a subject relevant to your proposed field of research.
International qualifications
If you hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, but don’t meet our entry requirements, a Pre-Master’s can help you gain a place. This specialist preparation course for postgraduate study is offered on campus at the University of Liverpool International College, in partnership with Kaplan International Pathways. Although there’s no direct Pre-Master’s route to this MRes, completing a Pre-Master’s pathway can guarantee you a place on many other postgraduate courses at The University of Liverpool.
International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.
English language qualification
Requirements
IELTS
6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0
TOEFL iBT
88 overall, with minimum scores of listening 19, writing 19, reading 19 and speaking 20. TOEFL Home Edition not accepted.
Duolingo English Test
120 overall, with no component below 105
Pearson PTE Academic
61 overall, with no component below 59
LanguageCert Academic
70 overall, with no skill below 65
PSI Skills for English
B2 Pass with Merit in all bands
INDIA Standard XII
National Curriculum (CBSE/ISC) - 75% and above in English. Accepted State Boards - 80% and above in English.
WAEC
C6 or above
PRE-SESSIONAL ENGLISH
Do you need to complete a Pre-Sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?
The length of Pre-Sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.
Liverpool bursts with diversity and creativity which makes it ideal for you to undertake your postgraduate studies and access various opportunities for you and your family.
To fully immerse yourself in the university experience living in halls will keep you close to campus where you can always meet new people. Find your home away from home.
Discover what expenses are covered by the cost of your tuition fees and other finance-related information you may need regarding your studies at Liverpool.
Contact us
Do you have a question about this course? Call or email the student experience team.
