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Research Degrees

Tuesday, 15 December, 2015

A research degree such as Masters by Research or PhD involves the sustained and in-depth study of a specific topic, which is then written up as a thesis for examination. Research degrees involve students carrying out their own research and academic study under the one-to-one supervision of an academic supervisor. The precise focus of research is agreed between the supervisor and the student. Research can be carried out at Masters or Doctoral level.

Research Masters Degree (Level 9)

Research Masters degrees provide education and training in a particular subject through original exploration and research.  A Research Masters usually takes one to two years full-time or three to four years part-time to complete. The research culminates in a thesis which sets out the conclusions of the research undertaken. The assessment and award of the degree is on the basis of the thesis.

UCD Structured PhD (Level 10)

The UCD Structured PhD aims to enable UCD PhD students achieve the best possible experience of graduate research and training. Making a substantial and original contribution to knowledge, normally leading to peer-reviewed publications remains the core objective of doctoral studies. The Structured PhD includes several innovative measures designed to support you in achieving your academic and professional objectives. A PhD typically takes three to four years full-time (6-year part-time) to complete. Assessment for the award of a PhD is on the basis of a thesis and viva voce exam.

Research Programmes in UCD College of Social Sciences and Law

Archaeology MLitt/PhD
Children & Youth Studies PhD
Clinical Psychology PhD
Complex Systems and Computational Social Sciences PhD
Economics PhD
Education PhD/MLitt
Educational Psychology Prof Doctoral
European Law & Governance PhD
Geography PhD/Masters by Research
Global Human Development PhD
Information Studies PhD
Law PhD/MLitt
Philosophy PhD/MLitt
Politics and International Relations PhD 
Public Policy PhD
Psychology PhD/MLitt
Quantitative Social Sciences PhD
Social Policy, Social Work and Social Justice PhD
Sociology PhD/MLitt

UCD College of Social Sciences and Law

UCD College of Social Sciences and Law University College Dublin Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland.
T: +353 1 716 7777