Postgraduate Opportunities

SETU Carlow has a range of high quality postgraduate programmes that offer suitably qualified primary degree holders (NFQ Level 8) exciting opportunities to progress to higher awards (Higher Diploma, Masters, Doctoral degrees).

These opportunities may be undertaken by research or thesis, or through taught programmes. Programmes are available in full-time and/or part-time modes.

Professional Master of Education (PME)

PME Providers:

Primary: DCU, Mary Immaculate, Marino IE, Maynooth University, Hibernia College.
Post-Primary: DCU, NUIG, Maynooth University, UCC, UCD, UL, Trinity

The Professional Master of Education (PME) is a teacher’s education programme for individuals with an honours Level 8 primary degree, wishing to progress to primary and post-primary teaching.  PME is the required qualification for persons wishing to work as post-primary or primary school teachers in the Republic of Ireland and a recognised teaching qualification within the EU.

Tips:
  • Early application is advised (i.e. before Christmas).
  • Check with the relevant college / university regarding application procedures and entry requirements and closing dates.
  • ORAL IRISH EXAM: Candidates wishing to apply for PME (Primary) will be required to take an Oral Irish exam before applying for the programme.
  • To apply on the PAC (Postgraduate Application Centre) website, click here »

Further information is available on www.teachingcouncil.ie website, where you can check out the routes to teaching, third level providers, subject criteria (for post-primary), Irish requirements for Primary teaching and eligibility to register with the Teaching Council. 

Applying for Masters - Personal Statement Tips

Your personal statement is an opportunity to “sell” yourself.
 
Step 1: Checkout the closing date for applications
 
Step 2: Below are some questions to ask yourself when you are thinking of a course of study. How have and will these areas help you with your study choices and skills development.
 
  1. Why are you applying for this course?
  2. Do your research. Why are you interested in this subject/course/college?
  3. Have you spoken to or contacted the college/university that interests you?
  4. What Personal skills will help you?
  5. What skills did you develop through work experience, extracurricular activities and interests?
  6. Any personal experiences that can contribute?
  7. Write down your achievements.
  8. What are your career plans and how will this programme help you realise them?
  9. Any other considerations (financial, travel, online or not etc.,)
  10. Decide on your course of study and apply (be aware of closing date)
Suggested high level headings to include in a Personal Statement. Always keep to the word count allowed. You may have to complete a number of iterations before you are happy to send in your application. Read over the course content and relate back to this.
 
  • ABILITY – Highlight your academic ability and include your results and any academic achievements
  • SKILLS – Highlight your key skills. For example, good communication, interpersonal, team and that you are eager to work together and learn. Bring in work experience
  • INTERESTS – Outline that you have a strong interest in …, highlight your best subjects and what your future plans are i.e. what you can do with your degree.

If you would like support with your Personal Statement contact: careers.cw@setu.ie