MA in Chaplaincy Studies and Pastoral Work at Dublin City University 2025

MA in Chaplaincy Studies and Pastoral Work at Dublin City University 2025

The faith and spirituality-based programme is open to anyone interested in a professional caring role. It focuses on ecumenism and interreligious worldviews in a secular environment. 

Eligibility criteria for MA in Chaplaincy Studies and Pastoral Work  -

.An honours primary degree (any discipline) or equivalent

• 60 ECTS credits in Theology

• Applicants must have secured a suitable placement

• Applicants must submit Letters of reference (Academic OR Professional).

• Applicants with appropriate combinations of professional qualifications and experience may also be considered (Irish / EU applicants only)

• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) applicants are required to submit a cover letter along with their application under the Transcripts section of the portal, affirming their intent to apply for RPL. For more information on RPL see here. 

• International candidates who are non-native speakers of English must satisfy the University of their competency in the English language. 

• Applicants will be required to undertake an interview before any offer is issued for this programme.

Note:  All candidates who are accepted to this programme must undergo Garda Vetting.  All offers will be conditional until successful completion of the Garda Vetting process.

Application process -

• All Applicants must apply through DCU's Student Application Portal which is available here.  Here's a quick step by step guide if you need help with your application.
• Provide a personal statement of not more than 300 words outlining the journey that has led you to apply to this programme.
• Provide confirmation that you have secured a suitable placement (18 hours per week for 12 weeks in both semesters (432 hours). Placement Form for DC980 (Full Time and Part Time) click here to be fully completed and uploaded to DCU's Student Application Portal.
• Provide an academic reference attesting to your suitability for this Postgraduate study. If you are unable to provide an academic reference, a professional reference will suffice. Please request your academic or professional reference via the application portal 'Letter of Recommendation: Academic' supplemental item.
• Provide a Pastoral reference attesting to your suitability to work with vulnerable persons. Please directly upload your reference to the application portal.
• If applicable, evidence of competence in the English language as per DCU entry requirements. 

Application Deadlines

Closing date for non EU applicants is 1st July 2025.

Closing date for EU applicants is 31st July 2025.