Masters of Arts in Education and Well-being of the Older Person

Course details

The Masters of Arts in Education and Well-being of the Older Person is a new programme offered by Mary Immaculate College. Recognising that educational needs differ along the lifespan the proposed new programme aims to address the largely unmet educational needs of older persons across different settings.

The new programme is timely and relevant addressing salient and emerging national issues. Quality of life for older people, the fastest growing population group in Ireland and the western world, is a topical issue in society today. Lifelong learning, another salient area, is a principle underpinning European and national educational policy. It is expected that programme graduates will contribute to social development in Ireland.

The Masters of Arts in Education and Well-being of the Older Person is a programme. It is envisaged that elements of the programme will be offered using a blended learning approach. Educational principles and methodologies will foster reflective practice, use experiential learning methods, provide learner support and create an environment conducive to intellectual growth, learning, professional and personal development.

Academic Programme Structure

The core modules to be studies in the programmes are;

• Ageing Society & Sociology of Ageing
• Physiology & Psychology of Ageing
• Education and the Older Person
• Policy, Participation & the Law
• Active Ageing, Leadership & Advocacy
• Principles & Practice of Research in Education

Participants will also complete:

• An Applied Research Project which will be conducted as an introduction to engaging in research.
• A Dissertation.

Who should apply?

The Master of Arts in Education and Well-being of the Older Person is open to individuals who work with, or wish to work with, or work on behalf of, or wish to work on behalf of, older persons from an educational and well-being perspective. It is anticipated that candidates would be recruited from a variety of backgrounds including informal carers, formal care workers health and social care practitioners, individuals working in the formal and adult education sector, those in management and leadership positions and older people themselves.

Entry Requirements

Applicants will be considered for entry to the Master’s programme on the basis of possession of a Primary Degree in a relevant discipline (Level 8 NFQ) at a minimum of Honours 2.2

In cases where the applicant does not meet normal entry requirements, the applicant can be assessed on prior learning in line with University policy and procedures on the Recognition of Prior Learning. The admission procedures will include an interview wherein the prior learning and experience of applicants in education will be assessed.