- Equip you with the knowledge, skills and confidence to commence your DCU postgraduate studies.
- Tailored pathway specifically designed for international students.
Your Pathway to Postgraduate study
The Pre Masters programme is designed for non-native English speakers who want to gain the English language proficiency and study techniques needed to successfully undertake their postgraduate studies in DCU.

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Programme Code
DC555
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Application Deadline
15th July 2022
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Duration
2 Semesters
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Location
Dublin Ireland (in-person)
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Workload
28 weeks total
(26 weeks + 2 exam weeks) -
Intake
September 2022
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Fees
€13,000 + registration fee
Get the skills and confidence to commence your DCU Postgraduate studies
Our Pre Master’s Programme provides students, who have met the academic entry requirements, with the skills needed to fully undertake a taught postgraduate programme from day one. The combination of academic writing, presentation and teamwork skills, research methodology, language and communication skills modules, help students to achieve their full potential.

- Those who need to meet the academic entry requirements for their chosen Masters degree programme but who require additional support in English language and academic study skills.
- Non-native speakers of English who want to study for a postgraduate degree at DCU.
What our students say

DCU campus is beautiful and all the various activities available in DCU made it a special experience for me. The clubs, societies and activities makes DCU a whole package for students and make college life smooth and easy-going. Though my course was only for a year, the experience was great.’’
Nikhil Mittal,
IndiaEntry Requirements
The following is the minimum academic requirement for entry to DCU Pre Masters Programme.
- Honours level Undergraduate degree (2.2 or higher) relevant to the chosen Masters Programme.
*Some programmes may require a higher academic entry. If you are still unsure about your postgraduate application or Pre Masters programme, we will be glad to help.
The following is the minimum English language standard for entry to the DCU Pre Masters Programme.
Qualification | IELTS | TOEFL |
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DCU Pre Masters | Overall score of 5.0 (or above) with no skill less than 4.5 | Score of 35 to 45 |
Students who have not yet achieved this direct entry standard can take a Pre-Foundation Programme.
We will be glad to assist you.
Study programme - Core Modules
In addition to the taught components of this course, students will also get the opportunity to attend a module on a DCU Masters programme.
This will help students prepare for their own Masters programme whilst also adapting to an Irish university environment. Moreover, they will be able to put their knowledge to practical use with their final presentation on a research project related to their chosen discipline.
By the end of this course, students will have gained the knowledge, skills and confidence to commence their DCU postgraduate studies.
- Academic Speaking and Listening
- Academic Reading and Writing
- Academic Research Methodology and Study Skills
- Academic Integrity
- Communication Skills
- Irish Cultural Studies
- Attendance at a DCU Masters programme module
- Research project related to their chosen discipline
Student Life & Activities
At DCU, we know that students participating in extracurricular activities experience a more fulfilling university life.
We encourage you to join events, clubs and societies to get involved in the vibrant student life.

Study at a top ranked university in Ireland for international students
DCU ranks among the world's top young universities (QS and THE rankings) and has one of the best graduate employability records of all Irish universities.

How can I apply for the Pre Masters Programme?



Step 03
The deadline for postgraduate applications is 1st July in any given year.
The steps you need to follow: Create Account, Complete application form, Submit application and pay application fee and Upload Supplemental items (documents). A fee of €50 applies.

Step 04
The application will be assessed and if approved the student will receive an offer to study on both the Pre Masters programme and Master degree programme at DCU.

Step 05
Successful completion of the foundation programme guarantees progression to the chosen Master degree programme.
Accommodation Options
Make the most of your experience while staying in Ireland. See our range of accommodation options for international students and begin your experience of studying in Dublin at these ideal locations.

Are you still unsure about your postgraduate application or Pre Masters programme?
Contact an advisor, we will be glad to help you find the right pathway programme!