MA/Postgraduate Diploma Public Advocacy and Activism in Galway Ireland | University of Galway

University of Galway | Galway Ireland
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Qualification
Masters Degree (Taught)
Languages
English
Delivery Mode
On-Campus
Tuition (2025)
EUR 18,500
(c. USD21,357.88)
Attendance
Full-time
Full-time Duration
12 months

The Master of Arts in Public Advocacy and Activism is a multidisciplinary program that blends hands-on advocacy training with theoretical foundations in these areas. Unique among Irish academic offerings, this degree equips students with expertise across diverse fields such as media studies, social justice, and societal structures. Through collaboration with experts and professionals, the curriculum develops essential competencies for careers in change-making organizations spanning community development, global affairs, workers' rights, healthcare, and ecological initiatives.
This innovative program serves both seasoned social justice advocates and newcomers seeking professional credentials in advocacy work. Its cross-disciplinary approach creates a vibrant learning community where students from varied backgrounds unite around common goals. Interactive seminars foster lively exchanges that deepen comprehension and refine perspectives. The degree features an optional internship component for practical application of skills, along with first-semester video projects on chosen advocacy themes. Students also benefit from studying at a globally renowned institution, with access to distinguished guest lectures and specialized workshops.

Career pathways
Alumni have established careers in policy influence, awareness campaigns, rights advocacy, teaching, and humanitarian work with organizations including SOAR Foundation, PETA, United Nations humanitarian agencies, GOAL Ireland, domestic violence support services, Amnesty International's Irish branch, cancer support centers, Galway community services, national advocacy programs, youth organizations, international development charities, and youth information platforms. Some graduates have pursued advanced academic research, with several completing or currently undertaking doctoral studies. While designed for nonprofit sector careers, the program's acquired skills—including investigative techniques, critical evaluation, and media strategy—prove valuable across all professional domains.


Destination of Study

Subjects of Study

Language Requirements

English
IELTS 6.5

Qualification Requirements

NQAI Level 8 degree or equivalent H2.2. GPA 3.0 or international qualification. IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent if applicable. Students who do not meet the Honours degree requirement but have a Level 7 (Merit 2) degree may be admitted to the PDip course with the possibility of progressing to the MA if they receive a minimum of 60% in their course work during the year.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Candidates who do not meet the minimum entry criteria but have relevant work experience are encouraged to contact the programme director to discuss eligibility under the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process. Such candidates may be invited to take a Qualifying Exam to ascertain their suitability for the programme.

In other circumstances, those with a lower degree grade, or who have relevant work experience, may be offered a place on the Postgraduate Diploma (with the possibility of transferring to the MA on achieving a 60% average in the taught modules).

English Language Requirements

IELTS: 6.5 overall, no less than 5.5 in any one component; Cambridge C1 Advanced (CAE): 176 overall; Cambridge C2 Advanced (CPE): 180 overall; TOEFL: 88 overall (7 Listening, 16 Speaking, 18 Writing, 8 Reading); Pearson PTE: 61 overall, no less than 48 in any one component.

Tuition EUR 18,500

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