Program Overview

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Public Administration and Law (Online) - Graduate Certificate

Brief Description

The online, part-time Graduate Certificate in Public Administration and Law is designed to help students build essential skills in governance, leadership, and evidence-based decision-making. This course explores key topics such as public administration theory and practice, collaborative governance, equality and diversity in the workplace, and using evidence to improve societal outcomes.

Overview

During this programme, students will:

• Acquire critical thinking, creative thinking, and analytical skills.
• Increase their knowledge in areas such as public administration and law.
• Apply their learning to both public and private sector contexts.
• Use this qualification as a stepping stone to further postgraduate study.

Programme Content

Key information:

• Complete part-time over one year.
• Delivered online.
• Modules are taught during the autumn and spring semesters.
• Students take two core modules each semester.
• Option to continue to the MA in Public Administration (MPA) or use 30 ECTS credits towards a Flexible Masters.

Students will learn through a blend of:

• Lectures, workshops, and hands-on activities.
• Reflective practice and guided research.
• Regular feedback from faculty and peers.

Part-time Considerations

• Designed for working professionals.
• Evening or recorded lectures.
• Additional prep and group work time.
• Timetable provided after registration.

Year 1

Autumn Semester

• Public Administration Theory and Practice (PA6021) serves as an advanced introduction to Public Administration, exploring key ideas and theoretical perspectives.
• Equality and Diversity in the Workplace (LA5071) introduces students to contemporary issues in workplace equality and diversity.

Spring Semester

• Collaborative Governance and Leadership (PA5021) focuses on themes of collaborative governance and leadership.
• Using Evidence to Improve Societal Outcomes in the Real World (LA5062) introduces students to debates about the nature of evidence and invites critical reflection on the theoretical, conceptual, and practical tools for developing evidence-informed strategies for change.

Books and journal articles needed for the course will be available online through the UL Glucksman Library.

Entry Requirements

• Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree (NFQ Level 8, undergraduate degree, BSc or BA), with at least a second-class honours (2:2).
• The university may shortlist and invite applicants to an interview.

Other Entry Considerations:

• The university encourages applicants to apply even if they don't meet the standard entry requirements, if they can show that they have the knowledge, skills, and experience needed for the programme.
• UL values all kinds of learning and supports different ways to qualify through its Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy.

International Students

• For details on country-specific qualifications, visit postgraduate entry requirements for international students.
• English Language Competency certificate is required.

Checklist of Documents

• Academic transcripts and certificates
• Copy of birth certificate or passport
• English translation of qualifications and transcripts
• Copy of CV

Fees

• EU: €2,400
• Non-EU: €4,200

Please note that international study visas are only available to students studying full-time in Ireland.

Annual fees are billed by semester. Once registered, students may be eligible to apply for a monthly payment plan.

Funding

Find further information on funding and scholarships.

Graduate Profile

This course can lead to the following sectors and careers:

• Public Sector Careers
• Non-Governmental Organisations
• Policy, Governance & Administration