Course Summary
This one-year programme is both a stand-alone qualification in Irish public management and the first year of the IPA’s suite of MA programmes. It is suitable for students working in all parts of the public sector, from large central government departments and local authorities to small public agencies.
College Link
Career Sectors
This course prepares you for working in the Career Sectors below. Follow the links to get a fuller understanding of the sectors you are preparing for.
Entry Requirements
Applicants must have a primary degree or equivalent qualification. Transcripts of undergraduate qualifications are required at the application stage.
Application Details
Fees
€5,900 pa
The programme fee can be paid in one or two instalments. The first instalment must be paid before the programme begins.
Employers and Fees
Where employers are paying fees directly to the IPA, students must provide a PO number and employer authorization (name, address and email of authorizing officer) during the online application process.
If students cannot provide a PO number, they can submit a letter from their authorizing officer confirming that the fees will be paid directly. Note: A letter stating that fees will be refunded to the student at the end of the year will not suffice.
Tax Relief on Fees
Where programmes are longer than one year in length, students paying their own fees are eligible for tax relief at the standard rate.
The Student
Career Interests
This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.
Enterprising
Enterprising people like situations that involve using resources for personal or corporate economic gain. Such people may have an opportunistic frame of mind, and are drawn to commerce, trade and making deals. Some pursue sales and marketing occupations. Many will eventually end up owning their own business, or in management roles in larger organisations. They tend to be very goal-oriented and work best when focused on a target. Some have an entrepreneurial inclination.
Social
The Social person's interests focus on interacting with the people in their environment. In all cases, the Social person enjoys the personal contact with other people in preference to the impersonal dealings with things, data and ideas found in other groups.
Many will seek out positions where there is direct contact with the public in some advisory role, whether a receptionist or a counsellor. Social people are motivated by an interest in different types of people and like diversity in their work environments. Many are drawn towards careers in the caring professions and social welfare area, whilst others prefer teaching and other 'informing' roles.
Career Progression
Duration
Delivery
Blended Learning
Seminars/webinars take place on six weekends
Seminar 1 September 5-6, 2026
Seminar 2 (Online) October 3-4, 2026
Seminar 3 October 31-November 1, 2026
Exams Week of December 7, 2026
Seminar 4 January 9-10, 2027
Seminar 5 (Online) February 6-7, 2027
Seminar 6 March 6-7, 2027
Exams: Week of April 12, 2027