Course Summary
The MA in Chaplaincy Studies and Pastoral Work course provides the academic, pastoral, spiritual, personal and professional development for those already working or wishing to work in the contexts below who seek to enrich their skills in the areas of Faith Development, Chaplaincy and Chaplaincy Coordination.
College Link
Career Sectors
This course prepares you for working in the Career Sectors below. Follow the links to get a fuller understanding of the sectors you are preparing for.
Entry Requirements
• 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)
• 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 Details
Application Deadlines
Closing date for non EU applicants is 13th May 2025.
Closing date for EU applicants is 13th May 2025.
Note applicants who require a study visa for the purposes of studying at DCU, are advised to apply as early as possible.
All Applicants must apply through DCU's Student Application Portal which is available at the Application Weblink.
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 (see application portal).
Provide a Pastoral reference attesting to your suitability to work with vulnerable persons (see application portal)
If applicable, evidence of competence in the English language as per DCU entry requirements. Please see link http://www.dcu.ie/registry/english.shtml.
Queries
Queries from EU applicants should be directed to [email protected].
Queries from non EU applicants should be directed to [email protected]
The programme commences in September 2025
Fees
EU Status Fee €7,800 per annum
Non EU Fee €15,000 per annum
Part time
EU Status Fee Part-time €3,900 per annum
Non EU Fee Part time €8,100 per annum
The Student
Career Interests
This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.
Social
The Social person's interests focus on interacting with the people in their environment. In all cases, the Social person enjoys the personal contact with other people in preference to the impersonal dealings with things, data and ideas found in other groups.
Many will seek out positions where there is direct contact with the public in some advisory role, whether a receptionist or a counsellor. Social people are motivated by an interest in different types of people and like diversity in their work environments. Many are drawn towards careers in the caring professions and social welfare area, whilst others prefer teaching and other 'informing' roles.
Career Progression
Duration
2 years part time programme, Monday evening lectures and a placement of 6 hours per week of the academic year.
Both programmes require attendance on 8 Saturdays during the academic year.