NCI Course Details

The course is designed to develop understanding of theories and behaviours associated with learning and development, while also enhancing research and practical skills. The course focuses on developing self-awareness as well as the competence to facilitate the development of individuals in a range of contexts by, for example, the application of new technologies to instruction, the use of strategies to support learning, and the creation of valuable and effective assessments.

Throughout this course, learners will be encouraged to enquire, question and critique modern conceptions of how we learn and how we can bring about change in others. The course will include guest lecturers and a variety of participative instructional approaches. Learners will be expected to complete practical assignments and to build their skills as a learning professional.

In the second year of the programme, learners are expected to complete a research-based dissertation.

Upcoming Open Events

If you unable to attend our May 15th event, you can register for one of our other information events taking place this summer:

• Wednesday 11th June, 5-7pm, On-Campus
• Thursday 17th July, 5-7pm, Online
• Saturday 23rd August, 11am-1pm, On-Campus
• Wednesday 3rd September, 5-7pm, On-Campus

The Master of Arts in Educational Practice is for learning professionals who wish to develop their knowledge, skills and competence in the development of others. It proves particularly useful if you are: facilitating learning at higher or further education levels; a learning professional in corporate education and training settings; involved in adult and community education or if you are interested in your own lifelong learning.

Year 1

• Theories of Learning and Teaching
• Contemporary and Enduring Questions in Education
• Strategies of Learning and Teaching
• Educational Practice for Diversity and Inclusion
• Practicum in Educational Practice
• Coaching and Mentoring for Learning and Personal Development
• Technology Enhanced Learning
• Educational Assessment and Feedback

Year 2

• Contextual Studies
• Research Methods, Qualitative and Quantitative Methods
• Dissertation

For information on the modules taught on this course view our module descriptors.

Please view the Practicum Booklet for further information on workplace placement for this course.

The Master of Arts in Educational Practice is awarded by QQI at level 9 on the National Framework of Qualifications. This award will allow transfer to level 9 research degrees and in some cases progression to doctoral study at level 10 on the NFQ.

Applicants holding an Honours Degree 2.2 (Level 8) in any discipline ideally with professional involvement in the facilitation of learning or training will be considered for the course.

The College operates a Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning (RPEL) scheme meaning applicants who do not meet the normal academic requirements may be considered based on relevant work and other experience. 

All applicants will be interviewed by the Programme Director or a member of the programme team.

Non-English speaking applicants must demonstrate fluency in the English language. Visit our English Language Requirements page for further information.

Depending on where applicants are working, there may be a requirement for Garda Vetting. If Garda Vetting is required, the applicant will be informed by the Programme Director.

Educators with relevant qualifications and experience can be assessed for direct entry into Year 2. Please note each application will be assessed on a case-by-case basis. Applicants may be called for interview by the Programme Director or a member of the programme team. Advanced entry applicants should email admissions directly for the application at admissions@ncirl.ie or call 1800 221 721 .

This programme has a BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policy. Specifically, students are expected to successfully participate in lectures, laboratories and projects using a portable computer (laptop/notebook) with a substantial hardware configuration. The minimal suitable configuration is 8GB of RAM (16GB are recommended); a modern 64-bit x86 multicore processor (Intel i5 or superior); 250+ GB of available space in hard disk; WiFi card; and a recent version of Ubuntu, macOS, or Windows.

It is the responsibility of each student to ensure their computer is functioning correctly and that they have full administrator rights. NCI IT cannot provide support for these personal devices.

A Laptop Loan Scheme is available for eligible students to assist them in completing their chosen course.

Year 1

Combination of Tuesday and Thursday evenings (18:30-21:00) and Saturdays (09:30-1:30)

Year 2

Combination of Tuesday and Thursday evenings (18:30-21:00) and Saturdays (09:30-1:30)

May - Sept: The dissertation is submitted in semester 3.

Please note that in some instances exams may take place in the daytime, evening, and/or at weekends.

Blended - Livestream with some on-campus stream classes, scheduled in advance.

See the MA in Educational Practice course brochure for an explanation of the learning methods.

This course runs over 2 years.

Year 1: €5,200
Year 2: €3,500
Total fee: €8,700
(Fees revised annually)

You can spread the cost of this course with a direct debit plan.

Scholarships and Discounts

We offer a range of scholarship opportunities and discount offers available to both NCI and non-NCI graduates that will help you access this course.