MSc in UCD application - but no primary degree. How to apply?

whiskeyman

Hi folks,

I've no primary degree as only completed 2 years of a 4 year course.
I'm now in my early 30s and am looking for a career change.
Can I still apply to do a MSc part time?
What's the best approach?
Should I email the relevant department with my background story?
Any input or advice (especially if someone has done similar) is v much appreciated.
Thank you

iwangmeng

You'll need at least 2.1h degree to apply for the MSc.
Maybe you should try to finish your 2/4 degree first?

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whiskeyman

iwangmeng wrote: »

You'll need at least 2.1h degree to apply for the MSc.
Maybe you should try to finish your 2/4 degree first?

Is that definite though?
I've been advised by a career coach that this isn't the case and have seen other threads that others have done it.
Apprently because I have years of full time work experience, that would play in my favour? And apparently many colleges are just happy to get the money in?
The degree course i Left was something I wasn't that interested in, but the MSc I've found is something I'm genuinely passionate about.
I was more hoping to hear from others who have done such and advice on best way to apply if any further work is needed.
Thanks

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Tom Dunne

This day and age, institutions are not going to turn away fee-paying students.

In some cases, if you can demonstrate substantial and relevant work experience in an area related to the MSc, you may be considered for entry.

Ring (at this late stage don't email) the admissions office and ask.

whiskeyman

Thanks all.
I'll give them a ring and will push it as best I can.
I appreciate all the replies

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helimachoptor

You're probably pretty late for this year (especially if its a popular course)

endacl

whiskeyman wrote: »

Thanks all.
I'll give them a ring and will push it as best I can.
I appreciate all the replies

If you have contact details for the course coordinator it'd be no harm giving them a shout as well.

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Its definitely possible. Ive had a few lecturers tell me I should do it to augment my career. Never been inside a college, except to give talks. I thought not having a bachelors would prevent me doing an Msc, but if you have relevant industry experience you can be elligible.

I don't doubt there are plenty of unaccredited colleges offering degree and masters programs and waiving minimum requirements to get the money in, but I'd be very surprised if UCD was doing it.

One of the aforementioned lecturers works for UCD.

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Tom Dunne

helimachoptor wrote: »

You're probably pretty late for this year (especially if its a popular course)

Tom Dunne wrote: »

This day and age, institutions are not going to turn away fee-paying students.

endacl wrote: »

If you have contact details for the course coordinator it'd be no harm giving them a shout as well.

It's August. I'd say getting hold of them will be pretty difficult.

Ring the Admissions office, and you will most likely be put through to the faculty office.

helimachoptor

Tom Dunne wrote: »

It's August. I'd say getting hold of them will be pretty difficult.

Ring the Admissions office, and you will most likely be put through to the faculty office.

I had a friend apply for the MSc In Management last year, 10+ years experience but he didnt even get called for an interview. He was told he didnt meet the criteria for exceptional entry

Edi: Sorry just to clarify this, he did meet the criteria, however with the limited places there were other "more qualified exceptional candidates"

Tom Dunne

helimachoptor wrote: »

I had a friend apply for the MSc In Management last year, 10+ years experience but he didnt even get called for an interview. He was told he didnt meet the criteria for exceptional entry.

Wow, that is a surprise. I suppose it's supply and demand. You would think institutions would be only too delighted for people of that calibre to take their programmes.

helimachoptor

Tom Dunne wrote: »

Wow, that is a surprise. I suppose it's supply and demand. You would think institutions would be only too delighted for people of that calibre to take their programmes.

I know the MiM is oversubscribed every year, i applied a couple of years back very early and got in, but the schedule didnt suit so went to DCU.

My friend was told, if he had applied for a different course he would have got in (most likely)

Tom Dunne

Ok, now I see your clarification, it makes a bit more sense - limited places.

That's a whole different kettle of bananas.

Anyway, whiskeyman - let us know how you get on.

dar100

Lots of master degrees take in people with relevant experience in lui of undergrad degree

Hellywelly

The 7 ROI universities accept candidates on a case by case basis under a policy called RPL (recognition of prior learning). That learning can be formal (certs from short courses or similar) or informal (experience from work or similar). If you search RPL in each universities site you'll see their policy (including the exclusions) and how to apply.