Master of Arts – Local Government Management

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The Programme

The MA – Local Government Management is a two-year, part-time programme that combines study of core subjects in public management broadly with subjects specific to contemporary Irish local government. In addition to learning about economic and human resource management issues applicable to the entire public service in Ireland, students also explore such topics as local government policy formulation, the management of finances in the local government system, and strategic thinking and leadership at local level. 

On completing the first year of the programme, students receive the interim award of a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management. The second year of the course is divided into two semesters. In the first of these, students study three subjects essential to local government. In the second, students write a minor dissertation on a specific local government management issue.

Is This Programme for you?

This programme will be of great interest to local authority officials working across a variety of sectors. It combines study of core public management subjects with those that are specific to local government in Ireland. A part-time programem delivered through a student-friendly blended learning model, it has particular appeal to those who want to obtain a new qualification while attending to work and family committments. 

Subjects

Year One

Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management (Interim Award)

The first year of the MA programme is divided into two semesters and each semester is devoted to the study of three key subjects in public management.

Semester One

• Economics
• Managing Human Resources
• Finance

Semester Two

• Organisation and Strategy
• Research Methods
• Managing Service Delivery/Managing in Europe

Year Two 

Semester One

Local Government Policy Formulation, Implementation and Evaluation 

This course explores theories relevant to the role of local government in the policy process.  It focuses on five key themes: policy making and strategic planning, community and networks, service delivery, the regulatory environment, and organisation and change. A case study on housing is used to draw out a range of questions about the operation of local government in Ireland.

Local Government Financial Management and Accountability

This course considers the particular financial management considerations that apply to local government in Ireland. Among the topics addressed are the sources of funds available to local government, budget management, financial governance, accrual accounting in local government, analysing capital projects, and corporate governance.

Leadership and Management

In this module, students will explore how theories and practices current in both and public and private sector can apply to local government management. It examines strategy and strategic thinking, leadership and learning in a strategic context, changing organisational culture, and performance management. 

Semester Two

In the second semester, students complete a minor dissertation on a specific local government management topic. Students must successfully complete the taught modules before moving to the dissertation phase.

Assessment

The programme is assessed by means of assignments, examinations and a minor dissertation.

How To Apply

To apply, please:

1. Download the application form that is on the IPA home page and complete it (if your fees are being paid by your employer, be sure to include the relevant details on the application form).
2. Obtain a copy of your degree or other relevant qualification.
3. Send the completed application form and copy of your prior qualification to postgrad@ipa.ie.

You may also apply by post.

If you are paying the programme fee yourself, you can do so by cheque, bank draft or by debit/credit card (contact the Postgraduate Office for further details).

Prospectus

Programme Delivery and Application Form

IPA postgraduate prorgammes are part time and delivered through a blended learning model. To apply, the see the How to Apply section on the relevant programme and complete the application form below. 

Application Form

Postgraduate Application Form