John Thompson Scholarship 2026

The John Thompson Scholarship, offered by DCU Business School in partnership with the family and friends of the late John Thompson, provides a fantastic opportunity for students aspiring to pursue a Master of Science in Digital Marketing. This scholarship covers the full tuition fees for one student (EU or non‑EU) each year. Established in 2008 to honor one of Ireland’s most distinguished newspaper executives, this scholarship is designed to foster links between digital marketing and online journalism. If you are a graduate of business, journalism, or any diverse educational background, this could be your gateway to studying in Ireland. For students exploring other fully funded opportunities in Ireland, you can browse fully funded scholarships in Ireland  to discover additional programs.

About John Thompson

John Thompson was one of Ireland’s leading newspaper executives, with a career spanning almost 30 years. He was instrumental in the launch and commercial development of some of Ireland’s most successful publications, including:

• U Magazine

• The Sunday World

• The Irish Farmers Journal

He served as Chief Executive of Associated Newspapers Ireland (publishers of the Irish Daily Mail and Irish Mail on Sunday) and was former Managing Director of Independent Star Limited. John believed that the disciplines of journalism and marketing reinforce each other in driving consumer engagement and commercial success. This scholarship continues his legacy by encouraging students from business, journalism, and other backgrounds to study digital marketing with an appreciation of media and online journalism.

For students also considering study options in the United Kingdom, you can explore latest scholarships in UK for all nationalities to compare programs.

Scholarship Overview

• Value: Full tuition fee coverage (EU and non‑EU students)

• Program: MSc in Digital Marketing (full‑time) at DCU Business School

• Application Status: Open

• Closing Date: July 30, 2026

• Note: Students cannot be awarded more than one DCU Business School scholarship at a time.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the John Thompson Scholarship, you must:

• Apply for admission to the MSc in Digital Marketing program at DCU Business School

• Be either an EU or non‑EU student

• Hold a background in business, journalism, or any diverse educational field (encouraged but not mandatory)

• Receive an offer of a place on the MSc Digital Marketing program before applying for the scholarship

Required Documents

Once you receive an offer from DCU Business School, you must submit the following documents via email to businessscholarships@dcu.ie:

• A Curriculum Vitae (CV)

• A statement of motivation and suitability for the scholarship (maximum 250 words)

• A copy of your academic transcript or proof of final degree award

For students seeking additional financial aid options across Europe, you can review aids for students in Europe to find other scholarships.

Step‑by‑Step Application Process

Step 1: Apply for admission to the MSc in Digital Marketing program at DCU Business School. Visit the DCU global office website (dcu.ie/global) for application guidance and to discuss any issues.

Step 2: Receive an offer letter from DCU Business School for the MSc Digital Marketing program.

Step 3: Prepare your scholarship application documents – CV, 250‑word statement of motivation, and academic transcript.

Step 4: Email all documents to businessscholarships@dcu.ie before the July 30 deadline.

Step 5: Await the scholarship decision. The successful candidate will have their full tuition fees covered.

Why Choose the John Thompson Scholarship

• Full fee coverage for one student annually – removes financial barriers

• Open to both EU and non‑EU students – no nationality restrictions

• Honors a legacy – connects digital marketing with journalism and media

• Study at DCU Business School – a respected Irish institution with strong industry links

• Ideal for diverse backgrounds – business, journalism, and other graduates are encouraged to apply

Final Thoughts

The John Thompson Scholarship is a remarkable opportunity for students passionate about digital marketing and media. With full tuition fee coverage, this scholarship allows you to focus entirely on your studies at DCU Business School in Ireland.

Whether you come from a business, journalism, or completely different background, John’s legacy lives on through students like you who believe that marketing and journalism together drive real engagement. The deadline is July 30, 2026 – so apply to the MSc Digital Marketing program today, secure your offer, and submit your scholarship application.

Apply Now for John Thompson Scholarship