Opt To Be Taught

If it is a taught postgraduate programme you wish to apply for it is important to be aware of what is involved; the differences and similarities between this course of study and that of a research programme. While research programmes call for an impressive degree of motivation and ingenuity due to the amount of individual work called for; taught programmes follow a much more obvious structure; probably quite similar to your experience at undergraduate level. That is not to insinuate that taught programmes signal an easy ride at this level. They are usually completed in a much shorter time frame than research programmes; the general duration is one or two years; full or part time, making the study and grade of expectation extremely intensive.

The most important factor to consider is, obviously enough, the subject. If you make the commitment to undertake a postgraduate course it is essential to bear in mind the specific nature it will take and a general interest in something may quickly be exasperated at such a concentrated level. Although much of the study will be in the form of lectures and exams, taught programmes in Ireland are speedily recognising the benefits of honing research skills by involving a thesis or dissertation in the course of the study so be warned that taking this option will in no way minimise time spent in the library! Go to our Postgraduate Application Process section for details and tips on how to apply for your chosen course.