| Code | HDAH |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1 year Full-time; 2 years Part-time |
| Teaching Mode | Full-time, Part-Time. See Additional Teaching Mode Information for more info. |
| Qualifications | HDip in Arts |
| NFQ Level | Level 8 |
| Closing Date | Rolling deadline. Open until all places have been filled. Early application is advised. |
| Non-EU Closing Date | Open until all places have been filled or no later than 15 June. Early application is advised. |
| Start Date | 8 September 2025 |
Course Outline
This qualification is a conversion course for students who would not normally have studied history to degree level previously and want to apply for an MA in History, or who want to add the subject History to their teaching qualifications. On completion of the Higher Diploma in Arts History, you will have gained a broad understanding of history through thematic examination of general and specific fields, and developed the analytical and writing skills of the historian.
Students of the HDip in Arts History have an opportunity to experience a broad range of courses, from large core classes to small individual case study groups and seminars. You have an opportunity to specialise in whatever field you wish: from Irish history, international relations, early modern history, medieval studies and early Irish history. Students of this Higher Diploma select any 2nd and 3rd year modules from the undergraduate History offering: Book of Modules. For further information on these individual modules, see the course descriptions at the School of History undergraduate website: History-Undergraduate
Module selection is driven by student choice. If you wish to pursue a master’s degree, you are advised to cluster a number of your modules around your future field of study (e.g. modern Ireland, medieval, international relations, etc).
If you are applying for this course to gain a teaching subject please consult with the Teaching Council subject Declaration form to view specific requirements for this subject.
If you are applying for this course for future eligibility into the Professional Master of Education, further information is available here.
Additional Teaching Mode Information
The part-time option will be taught during weekday working hours over 2 years.
Academic Programme Catalogue
See the Academic Programme Catalogue where you can search for the complete and up-to-date content for this course. Note that the modules for all courses are subject to change from year to year. For complete descriptions of individual modules, see the Book of Modules.
Course Practicalities
Students take 60 credits from any combination of years 2 and 3 History undergraduate offerings. You are advised to consult the timetable and balance the load between the autumn and spring teaching periods. Part-time students over two years (by day) may balance the yearly credits in any combination they desire.
Modules are examined by a combination of coursework assessment, in-class examinations and end-of-year examinations. Autumn modules are generally examined by coursework (in-class examination, 1,500-word essay or presentation, depending on modules chosen) weighted at 20%, and a 3,000- or 4,000-word essay (depending on modules chosen), weighted at 80%. Spring modules are examined by coursework (1,500-word essay or in-class test) weighted at 20% and end-of-year examination, weighted at 80%. Seminars (HI3200) and Supervised Projects (HI2104) have separate examination requirements as outlined in module descriptions.
Staff of the School of History History - Staff
Why Choose This Course
This qualification is a conversion course for students who would not normally have studied history to degree level previously and want to apply for an MA in History, or who want to add the subject History to their teaching qualifications. You can select the modules you wish to suit your individual requirements.
Skills and Careers Information
Higher Diploma in Arts - History graduates have pursued careers in teaching History and further postgraduate study in history, and career paths are as varied as individual interests.
Requirements
It is intended for those who already have a 3 or 4 year primary degree, preferably in the area of Arts or the Sciences, and who wish to study the subject History intensively over one academic year. The Higher Diploma in Arts is a conversion programme and applicants would not normally have studied the relevant subject to Honours Degree level previously.
For Applicants with Qualifications Completed Outside of Ireland
Applicants must meet the required entry academic grade, equivalent to Irish requirements. For more information see our Qualification Comparison page.
International/Non-EU Applicants
For full details of the non-EU application procedure visit our how to apply pages for international students.
- In UCC, we use the term programme and course interchangeably to describe what a person has registered to study in UCC and its constituent colleges, schools, and departments.
- Note that not all courses are open to international/non-EU applicants, please check the fact file above. For more information contact the International Office.
English Language Requirements
Applicants who are non-native speakers of the English language must meet the university-approved English language requirements. Visit our PG English Language Requirements page for more information.
Fees and Costs
Postgraduate EU and International Fees 2025/2026
See our Postgraduate EU and Non-EU (International) Fee Schedule for the latest information.
Deposits
If your course requires a deposit, that figure will be deducted from your second-semester fee payment in January.
Fee payment
Fees are payable in two equal instalments. First payment is at registration and the balance usually by the end of January.
How can I pay?
See different options on our How Do I Pay My Fees? page.
Any questions? See the 'Contact Us' section on the Fees Office page.
How To Apply
1. Check dates
Check the opening and closing dates for the application process in the yellow fact file boxes at the top of this webpage. The UCC online application portal usually opens around mid October.
2. Gather documents
Scanned copies of supporting documents have to be uploaded to the UCC online application portal and include:
- Original qualification documents listed on your application, including transcripts of results from institutions other than UCC.
- Any supplementary items requested for your course, if required.
3. Apply online
Apply online by clicking the red 'Apply Now' button below. Note most of our courses have a non-refundable €50 application fee.
Any questions? Use our web enquiry form to contact us.
Additional Requirements
Please note you will be required to provide additional information as part of the online application process for this programme. This will include the following questions:
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You may enter the details of professional or voluntary positions held. We strongly encourage you to complete this section with all relevant work experiences that will support your application.
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In addition to your previously declared qualifications, please outline any additional academic courses, self-learning and professional training relevant to this programme.
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Please describe your motivation and readiness for this programme.
- Please detail your computing/technical/IT skills.
The closing date for non-EU applications is Open until all places have been filled or no later than 15 June. Early application is advised.
Apply Now