Thinking about a PhD in Arts, Celtic Studies or Social Sciences?

If you are interested in undertaking a PhD, the first step is to consult with the relevant Head of School/Department or potential supervisor to discuss your proposed area of research.  The College of Arts, Celtic Studies and Social Sciences offers PhD programmes in over 25 specialist areas of research.  For a full list of disciplines see here

The second step is to submit your application through UCC Apply. Your application should include a 1,000-word research proposal, ideally written in consultation with your proposed supervisor.   

If your first language is not English, you will be required to submit evidence of meeting the English language requirements.

Application Dates

Applications for PhD courses are accepted throughout the year. Prospective students are advised to complete their applications at least two months in advance of their desired start date as all applications go through different stages of approval - Department, School and College. The four start dates during the year are 1 January, 1 April, 1 July and 1 October.

Duration and Format

The Structured PhD at UCC normally lasts for three or four years and students are required to complete a minimum of 15 credits and a maximum of 30 credits of taught postgraduate training modules during that time. More information about the support and training offered to you on a Structured PhD can be found at the following link:  Structured PhD 

Entry Requirements

To be eligible for consideration for entry to a programme of study and research for the Degree of PhD, a candidate must have obtained a standard of at least Second Class Honours, Grade I, in an approved primary degree, or other such other evidence under the University's policy for Recognition of Prior Learning for Admission to Research Degrees. 

Further Information

For detailed information on UCC research courses see https://www.ucc.ie/en/study/postgrad/faq/