Institute of Public Administration

The A – Z of Irish Local Government is designed to give an overview of each of the key services, and the principle pieces of legislation underpinning the services currently being provided by Local Authorities in Ireland. The A – Z of Irish Local Government is ideal for anyone (either from a Local Authority or…

Accounting for Civil Service and Vote Funded Bodies is a one-day interactive course that will provide a greater understanding of and familiarity with the various elements of Central Government Accounting and its role within the financial management systems. The course is ideal for existing and new staff within the Irish civil service and vote funded…

A robust system of recording transactions is the means by which we can ensure that all financial data is captured and that the final accounts can be relied upon and fully reflect all that has happened in any organisation. Double entry bookkeeping is a widely used system of recording transactions and provides the basis for…

This two-day Administrative Law programme has been developed for civil servants and staff working in public sector agencies, offices and local authorities. The course will introduce participants to the core principles and legal rules that govern judicial review and the legal process involved in administrative law. It will also examine specific instances in which judicial…

This part-time programme explores public management in its various dimensions, focusing on issues that affect health and hospital services. The provision and cost of healthcare are always topical issues, and students will consider key subjects within healthcare management alongside subjects of general import to all parts of the wider public service, including law, economics, and…

This four year, part-time programme combines study of subjects critical to contemporary public management in all sectors with subjects particular to HRM. In addition to learning about the economic, legal and HR issues that affect public administration broadly, students obtain specialised knowledge of, among other things, performance measurement, employee relations and leadership. This course will…

This four-year, part-time programme combines subjects critical to contemporary public management in all sectors with those especially relevant to law and the administration of justice. In addition to learning about the economic, legal and HR issues that affect public administration broadly, students obtain specialised knowledge about such matters as EU law, criminology and penology and…

This four-year part-time programme combines the study of subjects critical to contemporary public management with subjects particular to local government. In addition to learning about the economic, legal and HR issues that affect public administration broadly, students obtain specialised knowledge about such matters as the powers of local authorities, local government finance and local government…

This part-time programme explores public management in its various dimensions, focusing on the key issues in local government. Students explore topics integral to this vital area of the public service, including local government finance, the regulatory powers of local authorities and local government reform. They also take subjects of general import to all parts of…

This part-time programme focuses on the effective management of people and organisations. Students explore the economic, legal and HR issues that affect public administration broadly and obtain specialised knowledge about the management function, including financial management, marketing and the management of information systems. This course will commence in September 2018.

This part-time programme focuses on the topics that are essential to the effective management of people and organisations. The key issues in management, including business and company law and the marketing function, are all covered over the four years. Students also take subjects of general import to all parts of the wider public service, including…

This four-year, part-time programme explores public management in its various dimensions and the distinctive role of public sector organisations. Students study subjects that are at the heart of everyday practice in the modern public service, enabling them to understand the key issues in public policy. They address, among other topics, the governance of the State,…

This part-time Accounting course provides a comprehensive examinations and analysis of the subjects critical to contemporary business life, focusing on accounting principles and techniques. Students receive instruction in the key principles and techniques in financial, cost, and management accounting. They also study subjects of general importance to modern business life, including taxation, auditing, business policy, financial…

This part-time programme provides the knowledge and skills essential to modern business, focusing on accounting. Students receive instruction in the key principles and techniques in financial, cost, and management accounting. They also study subjects of general import to modern business life, including taxation, auditing, business policy, financial management and project management. This course will commence…

This part-time IS Management course provides the knowledge and skills essential to modern business, focusing on the effective management of information systems. Students are taught, among other things, how information systems work, strategic considerations in information systems planning, and the human role in designing and implementing those systems. They also study subjects of general import to…

This part-time Marketing programme provides a comprehensive examination and analysis of the subjects critical to contemporary business life, focusing on the marketing function. Students receive instruction in the key areas of the marketing function, including information analysis, communications, and marketing strategy. They also study subjects of general importance to modern business life, including financial management,…

A key but often under-appreciated role in corporate governance is that of the Board Secretary. The Secretary can help ensure the smooth and effective functioning of the Board and its Committees; timely information flows between the Executive and Board, and vice versa; the development, management and review of governance policies and procedures; and act as…

The aim of the Certificate in Audit Skills (CAS) is to develop the skills and knowledge of public sector internal auditors in order to carry out effective audits and make a greater contribution to the governance of their organisations. The Certificate is an issues-based course focused on skills enhancement to meet the ever-changing needs of…

The Certificate in Business Studies is a one-year, part-time programme that provides a systematic introduction to modern business theory and practice. Students take four subjects and address such crucial topics as Accounting techniques, Research and Quantitative Methods, the HRM function in modern organisations and Marketing Strategies. The Certificate is both a stand-alone qualification and the…

This programme is designed to provide students with a practical and comprehensive understanding of government in Ireland. In this new era of integrating and transforming public services, students will receive an important system-wide induction to the roles and functions of the various sectors of government and the key processes such as legislation, budgeting, modernisation and…

Certificate introduces basic principles of finance with particular emphasis on financial management in the public sector. The programme follows the academic year, is distance learning based and supported by attendance at a set number of tutorials over the duration of the programme.

This Certificate in GDPR and Data Protection is a three day instructor led online course. Data protection compliance is a key duty of all organisations, public and private, which handle personal data. As well as the legal and regulatory impact of a serious data protection incident, the harm to trust, brand and reputation can be…

This programme offers students a comprehensive overview of the Irish health service, health and related legislation and the current service issues affecting the key programmes and care groups. Students can expect to obtain up-to-date knowledge and a practical understanding of the health service, at national and local levels, which will contribute to their effectiveness and…

This programme offers students a comprehensive overview of the Irish Health Service, health and related legislation and the current service issues affecting the key programmes and care groups. Students can expect to obtain up to date knowledge and a practical understanding of the Health Service, at national and local levels, which will contribute to their…

The Certificate in Housing Studies is of huge benefit to housing practitioners, in both generalist and technical positions, in local authorities and approved housing bodies. It provides a system-wide induction to public/social housing—an area of huge national importance—in a practical and applied manner. The programme will also appeal to anyone working in related areas who…

The Certificate in Irish Government and Politics is a one-year, part-time programme that introduces students to the political institutions and systems that determine how Ireland is governed. It has two main components. The first explains the powers of the Houses of the Oireachtas, the voting system in operation, and the organisation of government. The second…

The Certi cate in Local Government Studies provides participants with a grounding in the principal areas of legislation and practice in local government and with the core knowledge and understanding to enable them to work effectively within their role and operational area. It is aimed at those working in Local Government in Ireland and those…

The Certificate in Management and Financial Accounting (previously the Certificate in International Public Financial Accounting) is accredited by CIPFA – The Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy. The Certificate programme consists of two Modules: Management Accounting and Financial Accounting. The Management Accounting module provides an introduction to the principles of costing and budgeting and…

This one-year part-time Certificate is designed for public servants who wish to improve their overall competency in effective management practice and develop the core skills needed to effectively manage people, resources and performance. Emphasis is on the practical application of theory. The programme is delivered via distance learning supported by attendance at 8 workshops over…

This one-year, part-time Certificate aims to deepen understanding of the nature of organisational change with a practical emphasis on mastering key skills, tools and techniques for the successful design and implementation of change. It is an ideal programme for those who are charged with planning and implementing change in structure, processes and systems and for…

This programme covers critical skills areas, including project initiation; schedule development, monitoring and control; team management. It also addresses methodologies, frameworks and technologies designed to support the project manager. Students will learn from experienced tutors, and from each other, how to manage their projects effectively and to meet the expectations of their stakeholders.

This Project Management course covers critical skills areas, including project initiation; schedule development, monitoring and control; team management. It also addresses methodologies, frameworks and technologies designed to support the project manager. Students will learn from experienced tutors, and from each other, how to manage their projects effectively and to meet the expectations of their stakeholders. It…

This one-year, part-time programme provides a systematic introduction to the subjects at the heart of public management in Ireland. Students take four subjects and address such crucial topics as consitutional law, the principles of economics, the Irish sytem of government and the most influential theories of management. This course will commence in September 2018.

The Certificate in Public Procurement is a comprehensive introduction to public procurement and focuses on best practice procurement in the public sector and the achievement of value for money within the context of Irish and European Union legislation. The course provides comprehensive detail on all aspects of the procurement process to professionals seeking to enhance…

The overall aim of the Certified Mediation Training Programme is to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of Mediation as well as expertise in mediation skills for the management of workplace and organisational conflicts and disputes. For those wishing to practice as professional mediators, this 60 hour programme is accredited by the Mediators’ Institute of…

The primary purpose of the CIPD Foundation Certificate in People Practice qualification is to develop participants’ knowledge and skills and to build their expertise, confidence and credibility to deliver value in their organisations and to the people served by Human Resources (HR) and Learning and Development (L&D) professionals. This qualification will give participants a solid foundation…

The updated revised Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies applies from 1 September 2016. This is the key guidance document on the corporate governance expectations of State Bodies and other organisations operating to state body and public sector norms. The Code updates and expands on the previous code with additional guidance on…

Competency Based Interviewee Preparation will be delivered as a online workshop.  It is suitable for staff at all levels of the organisation who are eager to improve their interview techniques. The programme focuses on practical interview preparation, skills development and answering styles. The aim of this workshop is to ensure that candidates have the best…

Public bodies and many other organisations in receipt of public support must insure that their corporate governance frameworks are of a best practice standard and that they are in compliance with specified corporate governance codes. This course will give insights into the principles on which codes are based, provide an overview of the key issues…

The Dignity at Work – Bullying and Harassment Awareness workshop is designed for managers to ensure all employees feel respected in their workplace (regardless of whether they are working in the office, remotely or a combination of both).  Managers need to be cognisant of their legal and ethical responsibilities in accordance with their Dignity at Work Policy.…

This is a two-year, part-time programme. In first year students complete the Certificate in Business Studies. In second year, students take three common subjects: Business and Company Law, Cost Accounting and Economics plus a fourth subject from a choice of four streams: Accounting; Marketing; Information Systems Management; Human Resource Management. This course will commence in…

This is a two-year, part-time programme. In first year students complete the Certificate in Business Studies. In second year, students take three common subjects: Business and Company Law, Cost Accounting and Economics plus a fourth subject from a choice of four streams: Accounting; Marketing; Information Systems Management; Human Resource Management.

The Diploma in Civil Service and State Agency Studies is designed to complement the IPA Certificate in Civil Service and State Agency Studies. The Diploma provides a more in-depth explanation and analysis of the system of government, governance and public administration in Ireland. Both programmes are intended to be an important step in the career…

The Diploma in Civil Service and State Agency Studies is designed to complement the IPA Certificate in Civil Service and State Agency Studies. The Diploma provides a more in-depth explanation and analysis of the system of government, governance and public administration in Ireland. Both programmes are intended to be an important step in the career…

The Diploma in Computer Studies is a part-time programme of training and education that is made up of compulsory and elective modules. The Compulsory Modules are: – Hardware and Software (including Networking and Virtualisation) – Project Management – Systems Development and Database Design – Security Foundations The Elective Modules, of which a student must select…

The Diploma in Computer Studies is a two-year, part-time programme of training and education leading to a professional quali cation in Information Technology. In addition to the overall UCD Accreditation, the A+, Systems Management and CIW Certificates are independently internationally accredited and are considered industry standard qualifications. The Diploma is delivered over two years through…

This one-year, part-time programme provides a comprehensive analysis of the theory and practice of European integration in the modern era. Its three modules explain and critique the laws and policies of the EU and assess the political and economic challenges that the EU faces. Graduates of this introductory-level programme will be able to speak with…

The aim of the one-year, part-time Diploma in Finance is to extend and deepen the understanding gained at the IPA Certificate in Finance level. This will involve a more in-depth treatment of the key topic areas in finance and their applicability in practice. Delivery is via a direct learning programme for each module, supported by…

Understanding how organisations, business units and departments manage their finances is obviously of critical importance to a successful career. Many people know that they would benefit from instruction in the accounting principles and processes at the heart of organisational life. The Diploma in Financial Management is a one-year part-time programme that gives students a solid…

This one-year part-time programme – the first course of its kind in Ireland – examines the economics of healthcare provision. There is a palpable need among those interested in healthcare in Ireland to understand the economic rationale behind the allocation of resources in this vital sector. To meet this need, the Diploma explores the fundamentals…

This one-year part-time programme – the first course of its kind in Ireland – examines the economics of healthcare provision. There is a palpable need among those interested in healthcare in Ireland to understand the economic rationale behind the allocation of resources in this vital sector. To meet this need, the Diploma explores the fundamentals…

This programme has been designed as a development of and a follow-up to the Certificate in Health Services. Students must have successfully completed the Certificate programme before gaining entry onto this Diploma. The Diploma is designed to amplify and build on the foundation coverage of health services and policy provided in the Certificate programme. The…

This programme has been designed as a development of, and a follow-up to, the IPA Certificate in Health Services. Students must have successfully completed the Certificate programme before gaining entry onto this Diploma. The Diploma is designed to amplify and build on the foundation coverage of health services and policy provided in the Certificate programme.…

The Diploma in Healthcare Management will equip students with the appropriate knowledge and personal skills to enable them to contribute effectively to the management of health services and the planning and attainment of goals and objectives. The programme will be of interest to those who have recently moved into management roles in the health sector…

The Diploma in Healthcare Management will equip students with the appropriate knowledge and personal skills to enable them to contribute effectively to the management of health services and the planning and attainment of goals and objectives. The programme is of interest both to those who have recently moved into management roles in the health sector,…

The Diploma in Healthcare Management will equip students with the appropriate knowledge and personal skills to enable them to contribute effectively to the management of health services and the planning and attainment of goals and objectives. The Diploma is a two-year, part-time programme that is delivered via distance learning and is supported by attendance at…

This part-time Diploma explains how organisations effectively manage people. It does this by analysing the aims of the HRM function and by detailing its key features. It is suitable for those who have no prior knowledge of HRM but are keen to understand the principles, laws and practices that determine the management of staff in…

This one-year, part-time Diploma explains how organisations effectively manage people. It does so by examining the aims of the HRM function and by detailing its key features. It is suitable for those who have no prior knowledge of HRM but want to understand the principles, law, and practices that determine the management of staff in…

Both public and private sector employees are increasingly expected to understand the legal context in which their everyday duties take place. The Diploma in Law is a one-year, part-time programme that addresses the basic laws and legal principles that determine and influence the work of the State and of private enterprise. It focuses on four…

Both public and private sector employees are increasingly expected to understand the legal context in which their everyday duties take place. The Diploma in Law is a one-year, part-time programme that addresses the basic laws and legal principles that determine and influence the work of the State and of private enterprise. It focuses on four…

The Diploma in Local Government Studies is designed to amplify and build on the foundation coverage of legislation provided by the Certi cate in Local Government Studies. It provides a more in-depth and analytical treatment of the main local authority services in Ireland. The programme is aimed at those working in Local Government in Ireland…

The Diploma in Local Government Studies is designed to amplify and build on the foundation coverage of legislation provided by the Certi cate in Local Government Studies. It provides a more in-depth and analytical treatment of the main local authority services in Ireland. The programme is aimed at those working in Local Government in Ireland…

This one-year, part-time Diploma addresses key subjects in modern management theory and practice. It seeks to equip both those who have some management responsibilities and those who hope to attain a management position with the requisite knowledge to make a valuable contribution to the strategic direction of their organisation and to advance their own career.…

This one-year, part-time Diploma explores key subjects in modern management theory and practice. It seeks to equip both those currently working in management and those who hope to obtain management positions with the requisite skills to make a valuable contribution to the strategic direction of their organisation and to advance their own career. The subjects…

This one-year, part-time Diploma explains and analyses the components of effective marketing. It focuses on the principles and techniques that contemporary marketers are expected to understand and apply. Suitable for those with no prior knowledge of this subject, it will consider both the position of the marketing function in modern organisations – and how it…

This part-time Diploma explains and analyses the components of effective marketing. It focuses on the principles and techniques that contemporary marketers are expected to understand and apply. Suitable for those with no prior knowledge of this subject, it will explain both the position of the marketing function in modern organisations and how it relates to…

This is a two-year, part-time programme. The first year is the Certificate in Public Management and the second year allows students to take a subject in an area of particular relevance to them. Students take four subjects from a choice of six streams: Public Management; Healthcare Management; Local Government; Law and the Administration of Justice;…

The Diploma in Public Procurement focuses on the strategic aspects of procurement within the context of international best practice. This advanced programme provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of key aspects such as capability development, procurement planning, cost reduction initiatives, strategy development, change management and supply market structures and analysis.

The DGov programme provides public policy-makers & public sector managers with the advanced knowledge and high-level critical skills that their professional lives demand. It offers participants the opportunity to explore how public policy-making has evolved, and is continuing to evolve, as a result of changes in the structure and practices of the modern state. The…

The aim of this Executive Officer programme is to provide an opportunity for staff at Executive Officer level, whose role is part operational and part management, to further develop the competencies required to enable them to successfully undertake their functions at junior management level. The Executive Officer programme will cover the following areas: The role…

Finance for Non-Finance Managers within the Public Sector is intended to provide an overview of the main aspects of finance confronting an increasing number of individuals in public service organisations. Devolved financial management responsibilities have led to a redefinition of many roles and the establishment of many budget holders. This has led to an increased…

Freedom of Information for Decision Makers is an intensive one day course for people charged with making decisions in relation to applications for information under the Freedom of Information Act 2014, which was enacted on 14 October 2014.  Reference will also be made where appropriate to the repealed FOI legislation (1997 and 2003) and to…

This half-day online GDPR Awareness Briefing is similar in content to the one day Introduction to Data Protection and GDPR.  It is aimed at people who are not directly involved in the processing of personal data but who should have a high-level working knowledge of GDPR. Upon completion of the GDPR Awareness Briefing, participants will:…

The aim of the Higher Executive Officer (HEO) programme is to further participants’ development as middle managers to enable them to manage their own and others’ work to a high standard and thus contribute to the achievement of their organisation’s priorities.  The course will cover the key competency areas of managing change, influencing and persuading,…

This four-day programme, delivered over two x two-day modules, explores the role of the Internal Auditor, the audit process and the relationship of the internal auditor with management, the audit committee and external audit. The course is participative with a high emphasis on the theoretical and practical aspects of auditing. The content of the course…

Maintaining healthy employee relations in an organisation is a pre-requisite for organisational success.  Employee relations generally deal with avoiding and resolving issues concerning individuals which might arise out of or influence the work situation.  Employees may feel so ‘aggrieved’ about an issue or incident that it impacts their work to the point where the organisation…

The Managing People programme will help participants gain an understanding of the responsibilities of managing and supervising others and will focus on key skills of people management such as motivation, communication, delegation, performance management and conflict resolution. This will be of benefit to staff who are currently in a managerial or supervisory role, who wish…

Performance management is a process which contributes to the effective management of individuals and teams in order to achieve high levels of organisational performance. As such, it establishes a shared understanding about what is to be achieved and an approach to leading and developing people which will ensure that it is achieved.   Remote working (or…

The MA – Criminal Justice is a two-year part-time programme that explores the key issues in the management of the criminal justice system. It seeks to raise the level of analysis within the Irish criminal justice system and to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective management of this area. This degree…

The MA – Financial Management is a two-year, part-time programme that explores key subjects in financial management. It seeks to raise the level of financial analysis in the public service and equip students with the knowledge and skills essential for effective financial management. With relevance to those who work in both the public and private…

The MA-Healthcare Management is a two-year, part-time programme that focuses on the issues that affect health and hospital services. It seeks to raise the level of analysis in healthcare management in Ireland and to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage effectively. The programme will be of particular interest to those who…

The Master of Arts – Human Resource Management is a two-year, part-time programme that explores the key issues in human resource management. It seeks to raise the level of analysis in public sector human resource management and to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for the effective management of people. This programme will…

The MA – Leadership and Strategy is a two-year, part-time programme that explores the theory and practice of effective leadership and strategy formulation. Both public and private sector organisations need leaders with expertise in the HR, strategic and financial components of organisational life. This programme combines instruction in six subjects with a major dissertation. Subjects…

The MS – Local Government Management is a two-year, part-time programme that explores the key issues in local government management. It seeks to raise the level of analysis in Irish local government and to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective management in the local government filed.

The Master of Arts in Non-Profit Management responds to a growing need for increased managerial capabilities in non-profit organisations in Ireland and abroad. The programme attends to subjects that are at the heart of contemporary management generally and to subjects specific to non-profits. It is aimed at managers in the sector who are currently in…

The MA – Public Management is a two-year, part-time programme that combines instruction in key public management subjects and an opportunity to research about a specific public management topic. On completing the first year of the MA, students receive the interim award of a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management. In the second year of the…

In this era of corporate governance and accountability minute taking is a responsible position that requires individuals who can take clear brief easy to read and accurate recordings of decisions and actions. This workshop will be highly interactive involving participants in small group work and skills practice. The following areas will be discussed: Meetings as…

The MSc in Business and Management is a two-year, part-time programme that will provide students with advanced and significant expertise in the concepts, tools and skills essential to contemporary business strategies and functions. The first stage of the course provides a mixture of quantitative subjects and more general management subjects. On successful completion of this…

PMI Agile Certified Practitioner is a highly-interactive, three-day, instructor-led course prepares participants for the PMI-ACP (Project Management Institute-Agile Certified Practitioner) Accreditation; a world-wide recognition of knowledge of Agile principles, practices and tools and techniques across Agile methodologies. If you already use Agile practices or your organisation is adopting Agile methods, earning the PMI-ACP® certification will…

Students who already possess an MA (from the IPA or from another recognised institution) can take a one-year Postgraduate Certificate in one of six subject areas: public management, healthcare management, local government management, criminal justice, financial management, and human resource management. Postgraduate Certificates are expressly designed for those who want to obtain, in a short…

This one-year, part-time programme analyses public management issues using models and concepts from the social sciences and quantitative disciplines. It is both a stand-alone qualification and year one of the IPA Master of Arts Programme. The programme is divided into two semesters, each of which includes three subjects. Programmes begin in September and January each…

This two-year, part-time programme addresses the tangible need for the development of policy analysis skills across the wider public service. It explores subjects that are crucial to the expert assessment of contemporary public policy including economic and financial analysis, social policy analysis, cost-benefit analysis, project and risk management.

PRINCE2 2017® is a well-established project management methodology used in business and government. It provides a proven best practice model that helps ensure project delivery is on time, on budget, of high quality and meets customer requirements. The PRINCE2 2017® Foundation Course and Certification at the IPA is a three-day intensive, instructor-led course designed to…

PRINCE2 2017®  is a well-established project management methodology used in business and government. It provides a proven best practice model that helps ensure project delivery is on time, on budget, of high quality and meets customer requirements. The PRINCE2 2017® Practitioner Course and Certification is a comprehensive two-day intensive, instructor-led course designed to give participants…

The Professional Certificate in Governance is a one-year part-time programme that addresses a key area of concern to professionals in the public and private sectors. Governance is a subject used in several contexts and is a subject of much debate in Ireland and elsewhere. This programme examines governance as a set of structures and processes…

The Professional Certificate in Governance is a one-year part-time programme that addresses a key area of concern to professionals in the public and private sectors. Governance is a subject used in several contexts and is a subject of much debate both nationally and internationally. This programme examines governance as a set of structures and processes…

This programme provides an in-depth treatment of social and supported housing. The provision of social and affordable housing and rental assistance is affected by many economic and social considerations. This programme, which can be taken from anywhere, will furnish those interested in housing studies whether they work in local authorities, government departments, voluntary/advocacy sectors, state…

The Professional Diploma in Health Economics – the first course of its kind in Ireland – is a one-year, part-time programme that examines the economics of healthcare provision. There is a palpable need for those interested in healthcare in Ireland to understand the economic rationale behind the allocation of resources in this vital sector. To…

This Professional Diploma has been developed in conjunction with the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission. A one-year, part-time programme, it seeks to give public servants and others a better understanding of the place that human rights and equality occupy in public management and administration. The responsibility to devise policy, deliver services, and follow processes…

Against the backdrop of the reform initiatives throughout the public service, the drive towards integrated service delivery and increasing consumer expectations, managers need to apply a range of skills and key competencies in order to be successful. This Professional Diploma programme has been designed for public servants keen to take up this challenge and contribute…

Leaders and managers need a broad range of interconnected skills and knowledge to create the processes and appropriate environment to successfully deliver change and innovation. This comprehensive programme integrates a number of elements relevant for planning, communicating and implementing successful organisational change. A distinguishing feature of the programme is that the academic content is augmented by expert input and focused guidance from change…

The Professional Diploma in Official Statistics for Policy Evaluation has been developed in conjunction with the Central Statistics Office (CSO) and is targeted at decision-makers throughout the public service. It will introduce students to important Irish and international official statistics that will help them better understand the structure and trends in Ireland s economy and…

The Professional Diploma in Official Statistics for Policy Evaluation has been developed in conjunction with the Central Statistics Office (CSO) and is targeted at decision-makers throughout the public service. It will introduce students to important Irish and international official statistics that will help them better understand the structure and trends in Ireland s economy and…

The Professional Diploma in Project Management programme builds on the IPA Certificate in Project Management. It covers additional critical skills areas, including procurement, resource management, quality management, and managing multiple projects. It also addresses methodologies, frameworks (including PRINCE 2, Agile and the PMIBOK) and technologies designed to support the project manager. The programme has been…

his Programme builds on the work of the Certificate in Project Management. While the Certificate could be seen as project focused the Diploma could be said to be more project environment focused i.e. concerning those critical project interfaces with the rest of the organisation. It covers additional critical skill areas including project assessment, procurement, resource,…

This Programme builds on the work of the Certificate in Project Management. While the Certificate could be seen as project focused the Diploma could be said to be more project environment focused i.e. concerning those critical project interfaces with the rest of the organisation. It covers additional critical skill areas including project assessment, procurement, resource,…

Project management skills have never been more in demand. There is a clear need for a shift in the public service to a project management approach to effectively deliver on business plans. Properly implemented, the project management approach ensures understanding, focus, confidence, oversight and success. This two-day project management in practice training programme is designed…

Effective management of risk is now recognised as a critical element of good governance and assurance arrangements in public service organisations and state agencies. Handling uncertainties and agreeing priorities has implications for strategic and business planning objectives, the relationship with stakeholders and also the resourcing, management and control of work programmes and activities. Demonstrating effectiveness…

Published accounts are the backbone of the accountability and reporting system used in the public, semi-state and private sectors. The information contained in these reports is critical for those charged with the responsibility of monitoring agency performance. However, this information is only useful where it can be interpreted accurately and in the correct context. Understanding…

A robust system of recording transactions is the means by which we can ensure that all financial data is captured and that the final accounts can be relied upon and fully reflect all that has happened in any organisation. Double entry bookkeeping is a widely used system of recording transactions and provides the basis for…

The expectations and obligations on audit committees continue to evolve in response to governance developments and the need for Boards and governing bodies to demonstrate that they are adhering to relevant audit, assurance and risk management requirements. The Audit Committee charter will set out the duties of the Committee in areas such as internal control,…

This part-time programme explores public management in its various dimensions, focusing on issues that affect health and hospital services. The provision and cost of healthcare are always topical issues, and students will consider key subjects within healthcare management alongside subjects of general import to all parts of the wider public service, including law, economics, and…

This part-time programme explores the subjects essential to effective human resource management. Alongside such important topics as performance management, employee relations and leadership theories, students address the fundamentals of employment law and the management of organisational change. They also take subjects of general import to all parts of the wider public service, including economics and…

This part-time programme provides the knowledge and skills essential to modern business, focusing on human resource management. Alongside such important topics as performance appraisal, employee relations and leadership theories, students also address the fundamentals of employment law and the management of organisational change. They also study subjects of general import to modern business life, including…

This part-time programme provides the knowledge and skills essential to modern business, focusing on the effective management of information systems. Students are taught, among other things, how information systems work, strategic considerations in information systems planning, and the human role in designing and implementing those systems. They also study subjects of general import to modern…

This part-time programme provides the knowledge and skills essential to modern business, focusing on marketing concepts and practices. Students receive instruction in the key areas of the marketing function, including information analysis, communications, and marketing strategy. They also study subjects of general import to modern business life, including financial management, business policy, and project management.

The aim of the Certificate in Audit Skills (CAS) is to develop the skills and knowledge of public sector internal auditors in order to carry out effective audits and make a greater contribution to the governance of their organisations. The Certificate is an issues-based course focused on skills enhancement to meet the ever-changing needs of…

This part-time programme explores the subjects essential to modern business practice. It seeks to give students a solid grounding in topics of lasting relevance to business life, enabling them to become competent in four key business functions. It has long proved an ideal choice for a diverse set of professional learners.

The aim of the Certificate in Finance is to introduce the basic principles of finance and provide a solid grounding across the discipline. The course will incorporate the financial reporting function, which deals with recording transactions and making payments, through management accounting, which derives costs, develops budgets and reports on differences between actual expenditure and…

Data protection compliance is a key duty of all organisations, public and private, which handle personal data. As well as the legal and regulatory impact of a serious data protection incident, the harm to trust, brand and reputation can be literally incalculable. The EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) came into effect in May 2018…

The Certificate in Health Services offers students a comprehensive overview of the Irish Health Service, health and related legislation and the current service issues affecting the key programmes and care groups. Students can expect to obtain up to date knowledge and a practical understanding of the Health Service, at national and local levels, which will…

The Certificate in Management and Financial Accounting (previously the Certificate in International Public Financial Management) consists of two modules: Management Accounting and Financial Accounting. The Management Accounting module provides an introduction to the principles of costing and budgeting and their use in providing information to support management decision making. The skills and knowledge that students…

The Certificate in Public Procurement is a comprehensive introduction to public procurement and focuses on best practice procurement in the public sector and the achievement of value for money within the context of Irish and European Union legislation. The course provides comprehensive detail on all aspects of the procurement process to professionals seeking to enhance…

The overall aim of the Certified Mediation Training Programme is to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of Mediation as well as expertise in mediation skills for the management of workplace and organisational conflicts and disputes. For those wishing to practice as professional mediators, this 60 hour programme is accredited by the Mediators’ Institute of…

The primary purpose of the CIPD Foundation Certificate in People Practice qualification is to develop participants’ knowledge and skills and to build their expertise, confidence and credibility to deliver value in their organisations and to the people served by Human Resources (HR) and Learning and Development (L&D) professionals. This qualification will give participants a solid foundation…

The updated revised Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies has applied from 1 September 2016. This is the key guidance document on the corporate governance expectations of State Bodies and other organisations operating to state body and public sector norms. The Code updates and expands on the previous code with additional guidance…

With ever increasing number of applicants applying for positions in the Civil & Public Service, to stay as employer of choice we have to demonstrate that our Recruitment and Selection process including Desk Shortlisting is Transparent, Consistent, Fair and based on both best practice and merit. Competency Based Shortlisting in Recruitment and Selection is an…

This one day Conducting a Job Analysis for HR and Line Management Personnel online course is designed to equip Line Managers and Human Resource personnel with the required skillset to carry out a Job Analysis. Job Analysis plays an important role in recruitment and selection, performance appraisal, analysing training and development needs, job design and…

Public bodies and many other organisations in receipt of public support must insure that their corporate governance frameworks are of a best practice standard and that they are in compliance with specified corporate governance codes. This course will give insights into the principles on which codes are based, provide an overview of the key issues…

The Dignity at Work: Bullying and Harassment Awareness workshop is designed for managers to ensure all employees feel respected in their workplace (regardless of whether they are working in the office, remotely or a combination of both).  Managers need to be cognisant of their legal and ethical responsibilities in accordance with their Dignity at Work…

The aim of the Diploma in Finance is to extend and deepen the understanding gained at the Certificate in Finance level. This will involve a more in-depth treatment of the key topic areas in finance and their applicability in practice.

This part-time programme – the first course of its kind in Ireland – examines the economics of healthcare provision. There is a palpable need among those interested in healthcare in Ireland to understand the economic rationale behind the allocation of resources in this vital sector. To meet this need, the Diploma explores the fundamentals of…

The Diploma in Health Services Policy has been designed as a development of, and a follow-up to, the Certificate in Health Services. Students must have successfully completed the Certificate programme before gaining entry onto this Diploma. The Diploma is designed to amplify and build on the foundation coverage of health services and policy provided in…

The Diploma in Healthcare Management equips students with the appropriate knowledge and personal skills to enable them to contribute effectively to the management of health services and the planning and attainment of goals and objectives

This part-time Diploma explains how organisations effectively manage people. It does so by examining the aims of the HRM function and by detailing its key features. It is suitable for those who have no prior knowledge of HRM but want to understand the principles, law, and practices that determine the management of staff in the…

This part-time Diploma explains and analyses the components of effective marketing. It does so by exploring the basic principles and techniques that contemporary marketers are expected to understand and apply. Suitable for those with no prior knowledge of this subject, it will consider both the position of the marketing function in modern organisations and the…

The Diploma in Public Procurement is an advanced programme which caters for the needs of decision makers by equipping them with the skills to design and implement strategic initiatives ensuring they position and resource their procurement activity appropriately.

The Programme  With the increasing emphasis in the public sector on information, organisations need excellent communicators who are capable of delivering their messages clearly and persuasively. Clear, concise writing plays a central role in the work of the organisation. Staff sometimes find writing difficult and challenging in this communication process. This course aims to develop…

The impact of Covid-19 on the employment relationship has been enormous. Remote working is normalised and some employers and some employees want it to stay. As the Oireachtas considers the Working from Home (Covid-19) Bill 2020, the focus is on what steps employers can take to ensure legal compliance and future proof their remote working…

HRM professionals and line managers with people management responsibilities need to be familiar with the principles of employment law and the key obligations and constraints placed on them in managing the employment relationship. Learning Outcomes Upon completion of this online Employment Law Essentials workshop participants will: Have a practical understanding of employment law at the…

Finance for Non-Financial Managers within the Public Sector is intended to provide an overview of the main aspects of finance confronting an increasing number of individuals in public service organisations. Devolved financial management responsibilities have led to a redefinition of many roles and the establishment of many budget holders. This has led to an increased…

Freedom of Information for Decision Makers is an intensive one day course for people charged with making decisions in relation to applications for information under the Freedom of Information Act 2014, which was enacted on 14 October 2014.  Reference will also be made where appropriate to the repealed FOI legislation (1997 and 2003) and to…

Public Servants are faced with increasing expectations, shifting priorities as well as an increasingly complex, ambiguous and uncertain environment. Delivering government strategy requires a capability in project, programme and portfolio management. This Programme Management Fundamentals course focuses on the unique challenges and opportunities of delivering complex programmes in the public sector. It draws on the…

Line Managers have a very important role to play, not only in managing people and operations day-to-day, but also in implementing HR and other organisational policies and in supporting their team’s development and fostering a culture of staff performance, positive employee relations and employee engagement.  It is also the case that Line Managers should play…

This Competency Based Interviewee Preparation workshop is suitable for staff at all levels of the organisation who are eager to improve their interview techniques. The programme focuses on practical interview preparation, skills development and answering styles. The aim of this workshop is to ensure that candidates have the best possible opportunity to succeed by fully…

Competency Based Interviewer Skills Development is widely recognised as a key skills development programme for staff who will be involved in interviewing on behalf of their organisations. This interviewing may be for external recruitment or increasingly, to assess current employees suitability for promotion. This course has been modified for delivery as a five hour online…

This two-day online course provides a practical introduction to Business Process Innovation (BPI). It combines a training and workshop approach and equips participants with a structured, systematic approach to running BPI projects. As a result, participants will be better placed to achieve improved and streamlined business processes that align with public service organisations’ remits and…

Data protection is a key duty of all organisations, public and private, which handle personal data and personal sensitive data. As well as the legal and regulatory impact of a serious data protection incident, the harm to trust, brand and reputation can be significant. The EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) came into effect on…

This Introduction to Fraud and Control in Organisations webinar will provide an introduction to the concept of fraud and key controls in organisations.  The session will consider the concept of the fraud triangle, the characteristics of fraud and the opportunities that may exist in organisations as well as key elements of an anti fraud policy.…

The Introduction to Internal Audit is a four-day programme, delivered over two modules. The course explores the role of the Internal Auditor, the audit process and the relationship of the internal auditor with management, the audit committee and external audit. The course is very participative with a high emphasis on the theoretical and practical aspects…

In times of challenge and change, organisations need strong leadership. Public service transformation is now a priority issue and local authorities are set to play a key role in this transformation. Local authorities are also critical to the development of infrastructure, to stimulating economic activity and to supporting local communities. To engage successfully with these…

This Legislative Training Programme is available for delivery in-house on request as an online course for Irish Local Authorities.  Please contact the IPA if you are interested in running this course in your Local Authority. The modular programme addresses legislation pertaining to the areas of Housing, Planning, Environment, Water and Roads & Transportation Services. Participants…

The Managing People programme will help participants gain an understanding of the responsibilities of managing and supervising others and will focus on key skills of people management such as motivation, communication, delegation, performance management and conflict resolution. This will be of benefit to staff who are currently in a managerial or supervisory role, who wish…

Performance management is a process which contributes to the effective management of individuals and teams in order to achieve high levels of organisational performance. As such, it establishes a shared understanding about what is to be achieved and an approach to leading and developing people which will ensure that it is achieved.   Remote working (or…

Physical violence and verbal abuse are acknowledged workplace problems which can have significant negative consequences for employers and employee health. Although instances of verbal abuse and threats to personal safety are common in many workplaces, incidents of physical attacks are quite rare. The aim of the Managing your Personal Safety at Work workshop, is to…

This three-day Mediation Skills for Managers training programme is designed to give participants an understanding of conflict and different approaches to managing conflict, awareness of their own style, where mediation sits within the range of alternative dispute resolution approaches, an introduction to the theory and practice of mediation as well as an understanding of the…

In this era of corporate governance and accountability, Minute Taking is a responsible position that requires individuals who can take clear, brief, easy to read and accurate recordings of decisions and actions. This two hour online Minute Taking for Meetings workshop is interactive and involves some skills practice. At the end of this workshop, participants…

Moving into management requires the learning of a new sets of skills in order to successfully transition from individual contributor to leader and manager. This two day Moving into Management programme will help participants gain an understanding of the role of the manager and the skills and competencies required for effective leadership.  The course will focus…

PRINCE2 2017® is a well-established project management methodology used in business and government. It provides a proven best practice model that helps ensure project delivery is on time, on budget, of high quality and meets customer requirements. The PRINCE2 2017® Foundation Exam Preparation Course and Certification is a three-day intensive, instructor-led course designed to teach…

Significant risk is attached to all projects. These can include missed deadlines, scope creep, poor quality, failure to deliver to the customer needs and so on. Our experience has shown that this can have a severe impact on budgets, organisational and personal reputation and a consequential impact on other related projects and programmes. This then…

PRINCE2 2017® is a well-established project management methodology used in business and government. It provides a proven best practice model that helps ensure project delivery is on time, on budget, of high quality and meets customer requirements. The PRINCE2® Practitioner Course and Certification is a comprehensive two-day intensive, instructor-led online course designed to give participants an…

The Professional Certificate in Governance is a one-year part-time programme that addresses a key area of concern to professionals in the public and private sectors. Governance is a subject used in several contexts and is a subject of much debate in Ireland and elsewhere. This programme examines governance as a set of structures and processes…

Project management skills have never been more in demand. There is a clear need for a shift in the public service to a project management approach to effectively deliver on business plans. Properly implemented, the project management approach ensures understanding, focus, confidence, oversight and success. This two-day project management in practice training programme is designed…

With ever increasing support for the validity and utility of Psychometric Testing many organisations are using a version of a Cognitive Test or Personality Test to ensure that they acquire the right applicant. The context for this Psychometric Testing Preparation for Candidates webinar is to provide the learner with insights on how to prepare for…

The Public Spending Code (2019) was updated in November 2021 to include the steps necessary to conduct a financial analysis for proposals under and over €1 million. This training delivers the provision in this update. This programme, Public Spending Code: Carrying out a Financial Analysis (November 2021 update), builds on our general Public Spending Code course and…

This course is intended to introduce the Public Spending Code (PSC) for Capital Projects. The programme will address the commitments to complete the framework for capital projects by identifying the roles and responsibilities of the stakeholders and taking the participants through the requirements of delivery of each stage of the framework. Learning Outcomes On completion…

Quality Customer Service is a one-day course that is designed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge of how to provide quality customer service in the course of their daily work. The course aims to instil an ethos of exceptional customer service into the culture and workings of an organisation. It will focus attention…

This two-day online Social Media Strategies course has been designed specifically for the Irish Public Sector to enable staff to produce an effective strategy for managing social media and to significantly improve communication and engagement. The course is led by an experienced social media practitioner and is designed for staff responsible for the oversight and/or…

The Leadership Challenge for Senior Public Servants programme was first launched in 2005 by the Institute of Public Administration. The programme is short, intensive and delivered in person over three modules, which are residential, with individual confidential coaching. The Leadership Challenge is designed to achieve deep learning and develop leadership behaviours and skills to achieve…

A new Code of Practice for Employers and Employees on the Prevention and Resolution of Bullying at Work written by the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) and the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has been in place since December 2020 (S.I. 674 of 2020, Industrial Relations Act 1990). The role of the Contact Person, Support Contact…

Using time well improves our overall effectiveness and adds to the quality of life. However, the management of time continues to be a serious dilemma for many people today despite our apparent familiarity with many of the practical approaches and techniques. This Time Management workshop provides participants with a range of approaches and techniques including:…

Training Needs Analysis / Learning Needs Analysis is a one day online course designed to equip Training, Learning & Development, Human Resource and Line Management personnel to understand which training needs arise in organisations and where there are gaps in knowledge, skills and behaviours among staff members. This online course is designed to identify the…

Published accounts are the backbone of the accountability and reporting system used in the public, semi-state and private sectors. The information contained in these reports is critical for those charged with the responsibility of monitoring agency performance. However, this information is only useful where it can be interpreted accurately and in the correct context. Understanding…

Whistleblowing and the Protected Disclosures Act 2014* is a half day workshop that will look at the legislation and guidance in the area of whistleblowing and protected disclosures, particularly in light of the changes to the regime brought by the Protected Disclosures (Amendment) Act 2022. There will be a focus on the procedures that are required…

The DGov is a 4 – 5 year professional doctoral programme. It provides public policy-makers and public sector managers with the advanced knowledge and high-level critical skills that their professional lives demand. Students explore how public policy-making has evolved, and is continuing to evolve, as a result of changes in the structure and practices of…

The MA – Criminal Justice is a two-year part-time programme that explores the key issues in the management of the criminal justice system. It seeks to raise the level of analysis within the Irish criminal justice system and to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective management in this area. On completing…

The MA – Financial Management is a two-year, parttime programme that explores key subjects in financial management. It seeks to raise the level of financial analysis in the public service and equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective financial management. On completing the first year of the programme students receive the interim…

The MA – Healthcare Management is a two-year, part-time programme that focuses on the issues that affect health and hospital services. It seeks to raise the level of analysis in healthcare management in Ireland and to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage effectively. On completing the first year of the programme,…

The MA – Leadership and Strategy is a two-year, part-time programme that explores the theory and practice of effective leadership and strategy formulation. Both public and private sector organisations need leaders with expertise in the HR, strategic and financial components of organisational life. On completion of the first year, students receive the interim award of a…

The MA – Local Government Management is a two-year, part-time programme that explores the key issues in local government. It seeks to raise the level of analysis in Irish local government management and to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective management in the local government field. On completing the first year…

The MA – Public Management is a two-year, part-time programme that combines instruction in key subjects in public management with an opportunity for students to research and write about a specific topic in the public management field. It aims to raise the level of analysis of Irish public management and to develop more efficient and…

The MSc in Business and Management is a two-stage programme that will provide students with advanced and significant expertise in the concepts, tools and skills essential to contemporary business strategies and functions. The first stage of the course provides a mixture of quantitative subjects and more general management subjects. On successful completion of this stage…

Postgraduate Certificates are one-year programmes in which students take the second year of an IPA MA programmes. There are six options: Postgraduate Certificate in Criminal Justice Postgraduate Certificate in Financial Management Postgraduate Certificate in Healthcare Management Postgraduate Certificate in Human Resource Management Postgraduate Certificate in Leadership and Strategy Postgraduate Certificate in Local Government Students complete…

The Postgraduate Diploma in Business and Management is a one-year programme that provides graduate-level instruction in core business disciplines. Students take six subjects over two semesters that cover both quantitative and general management topics. They will learn about, among other things, human resource planning, the management of change, leadership and strategic direction, financial policy, and…

This two-year, part-time programme addresses the tangible need for the development of policy analysis skills across the wider public service. It explores subjects that are crucial to the expert assessment of contemporary public policy, including project management, economic and financial analysis, social policy analysis and cost-benefit analysis. On completion of the first year of the…

The Professional Certificate in Governance is a one-year part-time programme that addresses a key area of concern to professionals in the public and private sectors. Governance is a subject used in several contexts and is a subject of much debate in Ireland and elsewhere. This programme examines governance as a set of structures and processes…