MA in Data Protection and Privacy: Law and Computing
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
The MA in Data Protection and Privacy: Law and Computing at Dublin City University is an interdisciplinary program that equips students with expertise in both the legal and technological aspects of data privacy. The program offers two streams: law and computing, and graduates are highly sought after in fields such as law, technology, compliance, and research. The program is taught by experienced academics and offers a mix of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, workshops, and individual supervision.
Program Outline
MA in Data Protection and Privacy: Law and Computing at Dublin City University
Degree Overview:
The MA in Data Protection and Privacy: Law and Computing is a unique interdisciplinary program offered jointly by the School of Law and Government and the School of Computing at Dublin City University. The program aims to equip students with advanced expertise in both the legal and technological aspects of data protection and privacy law.
Objectives:
- Provide students with a systematic understanding and critical awareness of the legal and technological issues at the forefront of data privacy.
- Enable graduates to be highly competitive in a field with a high demand for well-qualified graduates.
- Provide students with a unique interdisciplinary education.
Outline:
The program is divided into two streams: law and computing. Students choose either stream based on their existing education. The program consists of:
- Core modules: These modules are common to both streams and offer a mix of law and computing.
- Law stream modules: These modules focus on the legal aspects of data protection and privacy.
- Computing stream modules: These modules focus on the technological aspects of data protection and privacy.
Assessment:
Assessment methods in the program may include:
- Examinations: Written exams testing students' knowledge and understanding of the relevant topics.
- Assignments: Students will complete written assignments to demonstrate their ability to apply legal and technological concepts to practical situations.
- Presentations: Students may be required to deliver presentations on specific topics related to data protection and privacy.
- Research dissertation/practicum: Students will complete a research dissertation in their chosen stream (law or computing) or a computing practicum to demonstrate their ability to conduct independent research and apply their knowledge to real-world problems.
Teaching:
The program is taught by a team of experienced academics from the School of Law and Government and the School of Computing. The teaching methods used in the program include:
- Lectures: These provide students with an overview of the key concepts and principles of data protection and privacy law.
- Seminars: These provide students with an opportunity to discuss the legal and technological issues arising from the lectures in more detail.
- Workshops: These provide students with hands-on experience in applying the legal and technological concepts to practical scenarios.
- Individual supervision: Students will receive individual supervision from a member of the academic staff to support their research dissertation or practicum project.
Careers:
Graduates of the MA in Data Protection and Privacy: Law and Computing are highly sought after by law firms, tech companies, the compliance sector, research organizations, and government departments. Potential careers include:
- Legal professional offering expertise in privacy and the GDPR
- Data protection officer
- Privacy engineer
- Professional advisor on data governance and best practice models
- IT consultant
- Researcher
- Compliance professional
- Data Analyst
Other:
- The program is offered both full-time and part-time.
- The full-time program takes one year to complete, while the part-time program takes two years to complete.
- The program is taught in English. It is recommended to refer to the official program website for the most up-to-date information.
Tuition Fees and Payment Information:
Full time EU Status Fee €7,700 Non EU Fee. €16,500 Part time EU Status Fee Part-time €4,200 Per Annum Non EU Fee Part time €8,100 Per Annum
Dublin City University (DCU)
Overview:
Dublin City University (DCU) is a leading young university in Ireland, committed to transforming lives and societies through education, research, and innovation. It focuses on delivering real impact and addressing global challenges in collaboration with partners and stakeholders.
Services Offered:
DCU offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Academic Support:
Student Advice and Learning Skills Centre (SAL) provides guidance on academic matters, learning skills, and international student support.Student Support & Development:
Counselling & Personal Development, Student Health Service, Financial Assistance Service, Chaplaincy, House of Accessibility, and Disability & Learning Support Service.Career Services:
Careers Service assists students with career planning, job searching, and internship opportunities.Student Life:
DCU Students Union provides a platform for student engagement through clubs, societies, and events.Accommodation:
DCU Accommodation offers on-campus housing options for students.Research:
DCU is renowned for its research activities, with dedicated offices and institutes focusing on various fields.Global Engagement:
DCU Global promotes international collaborations and opportunities for students and staff.Student Life and Campus Experience:
DCU offers a vibrant campus experience with a diverse student body representing 135 nationalities. Students can participate in various clubs and societies, engage in social events, and enjoy the facilities of the campus, including The Helix, a performing arts venue.
Key Reasons to Study There:
High Graduate Employment Rate:
DCU is ranked #1 in Ireland for Graduate Employment Rate and #23 globally.World-Class Research:
DCU is recognized for its cutting-edge research, contributing to positive societal transformation.INTRA Work Placement:
80% of DCU courses offer INTRA, providing paid, relevant work experience or work placement opportunities.Diverse and Inclusive Campus:
DCU fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment for students from all backgrounds.Strong Academic Programs:
DCU offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various faculties.Academic Programs:
DCU has six faculties:
- DCU Business School
- DCU Institute of Education
- Faculty of Engineering & Computing
- Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences
- Faculty of Science & Health
- DCU Connected
Each faculty offers a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, with strengths in areas like business, education, engineering, humanities, social sciences, science, and health.
Other:
DCU has three academic campuses:
- St. Patrick's Campus
- Glasnevin Campus
- All Hallows Campus
The university also has a strong commitment to sustainability and has implemented various initiatives to reduce its environmental impact.
MA in Data Protection and Privacy: Law and Computing - Entry Requirements
EU Home Students:
- Applicants must hold an Honours undergraduate degree (H2.2 or above) or equivalent in Computer Science, Computing, Computer applications, or a related discipline.
- Candidates with significant experience in the software development sector, in addition to an Honours primary degree in another discipline, may also be considered for entry.
- Applicants with a non-law background must achieve a minimum of a Second Class Honours Grade Two (H2.2) in a primary degree (level 08).
- Applicants who have not achieved an H2.2 may apply, but applications will be assessed on a competitive basis.
- Applicants with appropriate combinations of professional qualifications and experience may also be considered. This includes relevant experience in data protection-related issues.
Non-EU International Students:
- Applicants must hold an Honours undergraduate degree (H2.2 or above) or equivalent in Computer Science, Computing, Computer applications, or a related discipline.
- Candidates with significant experience in the software development sector, in addition to an Honours primary degree in another discipline, may also be considered for entry.
- Applicants with a non-law background must achieve a minimum of a Second Class Honours Grade Two (H2.2) in a primary degree (level 08).
- Applicants who have not achieved an H2.2 may apply, but applications will be assessed on a competitive basis.
- Applicants with appropriate combinations of professional qualifications and experience may also be considered. This includes relevant experience in data protection-related issues.
- International candidates who are non-native speakers of English must demonstrate their competency in the English language.
Additional Requirements for All Applicants:
- Provide Academic Transcripts for each and every year of study, with English translation if applicable.
- Provide a 500-750 word personal statement explaining:
- Which stream you are applying for (Law or Computing)
- Why you wish to study the program
- What in your record and experience makes you suitable for the program
- Your expectations for the impact of the program on your future career
- If applicable, provide evidence of English language competence as per DCU entry requirements.
Application Deadlines:
- 1st July 2024
- 31st July 2024
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- International candidates who are non-native speakers of English must meet the DCU English language competency requirements. Applicants can provide evidence of proficiency through various means, such as standardized tests (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL), previous academic qualifications, or other supporting documentation.
Note:
- All entry requirements should be met before the commencement of the program.
- Applicants who require a study visa for purposes of studying at DCU are advised to apply as early as possible.
