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    MA in Chaplaincy Studies and Pastoral Work
    Go to Dublin City University
    Dublin City University

    MA in Chaplaincy Studies and Pastoral Work

    Dublin City University

    Dublin City University

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    Ireland, Dublin

    University RankQS Ranking
    421

    Key Facts

    Program Level

    Master by Course Work

    Study Type

    Full Time

    Delivery

    On Campus

    Course Code

    DC980

    Campuses

    Main Site

    Program Language

    English

    Start & Deadlines

    Next Intake Deadlines12-Jan-2026
    Apply to this program

    Go to the official application for the university

    Duration 1 year(s)
    Tuition Fee
    EUR 15,800  / year
    Next Intake 12-Jan-2026

    MA in Chaplaincy Studies and Pastoral Work

    About

    Overview

    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.

    During your study, you’ll develop pastoral counselling skills and competencies, and learn more about theology and educational and psychological disciplines. You’ll also study liturgy, prayer, community-building and faith development, and explore how chaplaincy studies and pastoral work can help you be supportive and non-judgemental to those who need it.

    Widen your spiritual knowledge
    Modules are delivered in-person and online. They cover topics such as professional and spiritual development, theology of ministry, cultures, religions and pastoral ethics, pastoral counselling skills and spirituality and ritual in context. You’ll also complete a chaplaincy placement in an area of your choice, as well as a research project as part of your final module.

    Once you graduate, you’ll be highly sought after for chaplain roles in schools, universities, parishes, prisons, rehabilitation centres, voluntary organisations and community facilities.

    Requirements

    Entry Requirements

    Entry Requirements

    The general criteria for entry to this taught postgraduate programme is :

    • 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.

    English Program Requirements

    Postgraduate Taught Programmes Note: In exceptional circumstances, results in examinations other than those published may be accepted as proof of competence in English language for postgraduate taught programmes. 

    This may include:

    • Non-native speakers of English who in the past two years have completed their school education through the medium of English in a country where English is the official language. For example, applicants who have successfully achieved a 06/H7 in Leaving Certificate English, a Grade D in A Level English or an examination deemed as an equivalent by DCU.
    • Applicants who have completed their undergraduate degree in the past two years, in a country where English is the official language.
    • Applicants who have recently lived in a country where English is the official language for at least four years and been employed in a professional role that required a high level of written and verbal communication. Applicants will be required to provide specific documentation to evidence this e.g. residency documentation, employer statement.

    Research Programmes Note: Faculty of Engineering & Computing and Faculty of Science & Health

    In exceptional circumstances, results in examinations other than those published may be accepted as proof of competence in English language for research programmes in the Faculties noted above. 

    For further details about DCU English Language Requirements, please contact DCU Admissions.

    Career

    Careers & Further Options

    Careers

    Graduates of the Master of Arts in Chaplaincy Studies and Pastoral Work are currently employed as chaplains in the post–primary school and university sector, in parishes, prisons and community facilities.

    "DCU graduates are highly sought after by employers. Our Graduates work in environments ranging from large multinationals to SMEs, family businesses and start-ups across every sector.

    DCU Careers Service has a number of learning and development initiatives in place for our students, giving them the skills they need for a successful career path."

    Go to our Careers site to find out more about career planning, our mentorship programme, skills development and online resources for students when working on CVs and making applications.

    Fee Information

    Tuition Fee

    EUR 15,800 

    Application Fee

    EUR  
    Dublin City University

    MA in Chaplaincy Studies and Pastoral Work

    Dublin City University

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    Ireland,

    Dublin

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