PhD Adult Community Education

The deadline to apply for the Sep 2027 intake is Aug 31, 2027; tuition costs 14,000 EUR per year.

Overview of the PhD in Adult & Community Education

The Structured PhD Programme aims to facilitate students in making an original contribution to the knowledge base in the field of adult and community education through research. It meets the needs of practitioners in this field.

The Department of Adult and Community Education is committed to equality and social justice. We believe that education is a fundamental human right and that critical adult education has the potential to transform individuals and society positively. We are recognized as a leading research center in adult education in Ireland and have built an exceptional international reputation for our work on further education, higher education, adult guidance, community development, and transformative learning.

Our research interests include critical pedagogy, access and equality in education, community education, and active citizenship. We employ innovative, participatory methodologies and focus on making meaningful contributions. The Structured PhD takes four years full-time or six years part-time to complete, ensuring students develop the necessary competencies and skills required for high-level research.

Maynooth University sits just 25 kilometres from Dublin in County Kildare, combining the calm of a historic college town with easy access to Ireland's capital. Founded in 1795 and now one of the nation’s fastest growing universities, Maynooth hosts a diverse community of more than 17,600 students, offering a welcoming campus that blends tradition and modern facilities. International students find a compact, navigable environment that supports focused study while remaining close to internships, cultural sites and the business hub of Dublin.

Academically, Maynooth is recognised for research-informed teaching across humanities, sciences and social sciences, with personalised class sizes that help students build strong relationships with faculty. The university emphasises employability and practical learning, connecting students with local employers and research projects that reflect Ireland’s vibrant economy. Student services include language support, career guidance and a range of clubs and societies that ease the transition to university life and foster friendships across cultures.

For prospective international applicants, Maynooth offers an environment that balances academic rigour with pastoral care and a clear route to professional networks. Affordable living compared with central Dublin, efficient transport links and active student support make it a practical choice for those seeking quality education in Ireland. Whether aiming for research, professional qualification or further study, Maynooth presents a focused, student-centred pathway with strong links to industry and community life.