Since research-based programmes are primarily dedicated to tutored investigations (80 ECTS credits) and taught study-units (10 ECTS credits), one expects a student to have acquired a solid framework in the area of study together with a focused research direction evidenced by a dissertation proposal at the time of application. Students intending to undertake this path of further studies are encouraged to contact members of the Faculty before they make a formal presentation of their proposal. The Faculty will accept such proposals once it can ascertain it has the capability to offer support in the area requested by the student.

The Course shall be open to applicants in possession of one of the following qualifications: (1) (a) a Bachelor’s degree with Honours obtained with Second Class or better in the same area or in a closely related area of study as the area of study applied for, or (b) the degree of Bachelor in the same area or in a closely related area of study as that applied for, with an average mark of not less than 65% in that area of study, or similar qualifications deemed by the Board relevant to that chosen for the Course, or (c) a degree from this or another university, which the Board considers as comparable to any of the degrees indicated in paragraphs (a) and (b). (2) The Board may also consider applicants in possession of degrees or qualifications other than those referred to above if they also present a portfolio of work confirmed to have been carried out by them and which is related to the area of study applied for to the satisfaction of the Board. Applicants shall indicate the provisional title for the dissertation on their application for admission. The application shall include a research proposal as well as a statement by the head of department concerned that applicants possess the training, knowledge and capabilities required for the proposed line of study and research. Please see the full list of requirements on the website.