Thinking about studying Arts and Humanities?

    Whether you're passionate about literature, music, languages, philosophy, or culture, the Faculty of Arts and Humanities (FAH) at Maynooth University is a dynamic place to begin your academic journey. This page offers a snapshot of who we are, what we offer, and the exciting opportunities that await you here – from world-class programmes to vibrant student life and groundbreaking research. We invite you to explore and imagine yourself as part of our creative and curious community.

    Welcome to the Faculty of Arts and Humanities

    The Faculty of Arts and Humanities is at the heart of creative and critical thinking at Maynooth University. As the fastest-growing faculty on campus, we offer a vibrant and inclusive environment where ideas, culture, and academic exploration flourish.
     
    With nearly 2,000 students (undergraduate and postgraduate combined) enrolled in 2024–25, our Faculty reflects a thriving global academic community. We are proud to be ranked in the Top 500 worldwide for Arts & Humanities in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2025 – a testament to our excellence in teaching, learning, and research.

    What We Offer

    At FAH, across our six departments and two schools, we bring together over 200 academic, research, and support staff to provide world-class education in disciplines such as Celtic Studies, History, Ancient Classics, English, Modern Languages, Music, Media Studies, and Philosophy. Our programmes combine flexibility with academic depth, offering students the chance to shape their own academic journey.

    Programmes at a Glance

    We offer a rich and diverse portfolio of programmes that reflect the breadth and depth of the humanities, giving you the chance to explore your interests in depth.

    • Students can choose from a wide and flexible Bachelor of Arts degree, which includes over 30 subjects, allowing for personalised and interdisciplinary study paths.
    • We also offer a number of specialised undergraduate courses that provide focused study across key areas in the humanities.
    • At the postgraduate level we provide a dynamic range of postgraduate taught and research programmes spanning all Faculty disciplines and designed to support both academic and professional development.

    We are continually evolving to meet the needs of students and society. New programmes are developed and launched regularly that reflect emerging trends and interests, including the BA in Creative Writing, set to begin in 2025–26. We also offer a joint PhD programme in collaboration with the Institute of Art, Design, and Technology (IADT), introduced in 2024, with a focus on Creative Industries.

    A World-Class Research Environment

    Our Faculty is home to a world-class research culture, including:In 2024, Faculty researchers secured over €4 million in external research funding, reflecting the strength and ambition of our research community.

    • We are proud recipients of numerous prestigious awards from the Irish Research Council (IRC) and the European Research Council (ERC), reflecting the excellence of our academic staff.
    • We are recognised globally for our leadership in Irish-language research.
    • We’re proud to collaborate with leading universities and research institutions around the world, creating a truly global learning environment. 

    Our Cultural Impact

    We are proud to welcome Booker Prize winner Paul Lynch as Distinguished Writing Fellow, teaching on our MA in Creative Writing.
    Home to the internationally acclaimed Maynooth Chamber Choir, one of the top university choirs globally.
    Our annual Arts and Minds Festival brings together students, alumni, staff, and the wider community to celebrate Irish and international arts and culture. 

    Our International Community

    The Faculty of Arts and Humanities is proud to be part of Maynooth University’s diverse and inclusive academic community, which welcomes students from all over the world. Maynooth University students represent over 120 nationalities, making our campus a truly international learning environment.
     
    The Faculty of Arts and Humanities is a microcosm of this international spirit. In the 2024–25 academic year, we experienced a 28% increase in non-EU student enrolment, underscoring our growing appeal to students worldwide.
     
    International students enrich our classrooms with global perspectives and fresh ideas, and we are committed to ensuring their success from the moment they arrive. Whether you're joining us for undergraduate or postgraduate study, you will find a welcoming community, strong academic support, and opportunities to engage both inside and outside the classroom.
     
    For more information on applying to Maynooth University as an international (non-EU) student, including visa guidance, application timelines, and support services, please visit:
     Prospective International Students.

    Get in Touch

    If you have questions about studying in the Faculty of Arts and Humanities, or want to explore which course might be right for you, feel free to reach out to the Admissions Office team or use the University’s “Ask a Student” platform.
     
    We’re here to support your journey from curiosity to confidence. Whether you’re exploring undergraduate options or planning to pursue a postgraduate degree, we invite you to discover all that Maynooth and the Faculty of Arts and Humanities have to offer.