Library and Information Studies

This postgraduate programme equips you with advanced knowledge of information management, library services and digital collection development. You study how information is organised, preserved and made accessible across public, academic, health and special library settings. Modules cover cataloguing and metadata standards, digital archiving, information retrieval systems and research data management. You engage in practical placements within libraries or information services, gaining hands-on professional experience. A typical week combines lectures, seminars, group projects and independent research, with strong opportunities to undertake Erasmus exchanges at partner European institutions. The programme prepares you to lead information services in an increasingly digital and data-driven environment.

Entry to this NFQ Level 9 programme at UCD typically requires an undergraduate degree (NFQ Level 8 Honours Bachelor) at 2.2 or above in any discipline, though a humanities, social science, computing or business background is particularly relevant. Applicants should have a strong academic record and some demonstrated interest in or experience of library, archival or information work. There is no specific Leaving Certificate requirement at postgraduate level, though your undergraduate entry would typically have required a minimum of six LC subjects including English. Mature applicants with relevant professional experience in library, records or information management are welcomed and assessed on an individual basis. International applicants must demonstrate English-language proficiency to the required standard. Places are competitive, so a well-evidenced personal statement and relevant voluntary or work experience strengthen your application significantly.

Demand for qualified information professionals in Ireland remains steady, particularly in academic libraries, health information services and the growing field of research data management. The shift towards digital services and open-access publishing has created new specialist roles that suit MLIS graduates well. Salaries for entry-level librarian positions typically range from approximately €30,000 to €40,000 gross per annum, with senior or specialist roles in academic or corporate settings reaching €55,000 or above. Public library positions are graded within local authority pay scales, offering structured career progression and job security.