Graduate Diploma in Public Administration

The Masters in Public Administration (MPA) is a 1 year full-time or 2 year part-time interdisciplinary programme aimed at providing students with analytical and professional skills, combined with knowledge of public management and policy making in government. The modules offered in the MPA programme are designed to provide participants with a rigorous and inter-disciplinary curriculum in public administration, economics, and law. The MPA aims to equip students with a comprehensive knowledge of the nature, role and development of the public sector, and an awareness of public service values. Students take compulsory modules in Public Administration, Economics, Organisational Behaviour, Policy Analysis and Law. For the research element of the programme students participate in a research methods module designed for practitioners and complete an individual research project. Both the 1 year full-time and 2 year part-time MPA also provide an exit award of Graduate Diploma in Public Administration for students who meet the academic requirements of the taught programme (60 ects) and do not proceed to the dissertation (30 ects).

Applicants for a Master’s programme must normally have a first or second class Level 8 honours degree (NFQ or other internationally recognised equivalent) in a relevant or appropriate subject, or equivalent prior learning that is recognised by the University as meeting this requirement. Applicants must also satisfy the English Language Requirements of the University. The University reserves the right to shortlist and interview applicants as deemed necessary.Alternative Exit route of Graduate Diploma in Public Administration on completion of 2 semesters (60 ECTS). Students who attain the standard of second class honours grade one on completion of the (60 ects) may, on the submission of an appropriate research proposal, be permitted to transfer to the MPA register at the discretion of the Course BoardWhat to Include with Your ApplicationQualification transcripts and certificatesA copy of your birth certificate or passportIf your qualifications have been obtained in a country where English is an official language this will sufficeIf this is not available, the following additional documents must be provided: English translation of your qualification(s)/transcriptsAND English language competency certificate