MSc in Management and Leadership – ESF+ –

Start date: 15 September 2026

Duration: 6:30pm - 9:30pm - every Tuesday over 2 Semesters - (Semester 1 runs Sep to Dec, Semester 2 is Feb to May)

Location: DkIT

Certificate: QQI Level 9

Cost: €695 (€2,500 unsubsidised)

Course code: N/A

Programme overview

This 3-year, part-time MSc in Management and Leadership is designed to help aspiring and current managers develop the practical skills needed to lead effectively in their chosen industry.

Unique to the North East region, the programme is delivered in small learner groups to create a supportive and collaborative learning experience.

The programme is delivered over three years, with an award at the end of each academic year:

Year 1: Certificate in Management
Year 2: Postgraduate Diploma in Science in Management and Leadership
Year 3: Master of Science in Management and Leadership

It is designed to strengthen the management capabilities of industry professionals and future managers, supporting them to progress within their current organisation or move into a management role in a new industry.

Supported by Skillnet Ireland and co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union under ESF+, this programme offers an accessible and affordable opportunity to gain a recognised Level 9 qualification while working.

This Dundalk Chamber Skillnet programme is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union. https://www.eufunds.ie/

Course Delivery and Modules

The block format helps learners build skills in a connected, practical way rather than in silos. Throughout the programme, learners are encouraged to apply their learning to their own industry or organisation and to take a more strategic approach to their management and leadership practice.

Classes run one evening per week, with 3 hours on campus each Tuesday from September to May, plus a 1-hour online tutorial on Thursday evenings.

The programme also includes lectures, webinars, industry speakers and discussion forums.

Time commitment: 3 hours on campus + 1 hour online per week.

Dates:

  1. Certificate in Management – Sept – Dec 2026 & Feb – May 2027 (2 x 12 week semesters)
  2. Postgraduate Diploma in Science in Management and Leadership– Sept – Dec 2027 & Feb – May 2028 (2 x 12 week semesters)
  3. Master of Science in Management and Leadership– Sept – Dec 2028 & Feb – May 2029 (2 x 12 week semesters)

Year One

Management perspectives and practices

Exploring management

Managing people and organisations

Managing financial resources and performance

Managing marketing

Operations management

Year Two

Leadership in practice

Leadership theory and practice

Entrepreneurial leadership

Building and leading teams

Coaching, mentoring and resilience building

Strategic planning

Strategy implementation and evaluation

Year Three

Research methods and modules

Data collection

Data analysis

Developing a research portfolio

Industry research project

Entry Requirements

Applicants should:

  • Have a 2.2 honours degree (level 8) in any discipline
  • Demonstrate two years work experience
  • Be passionate about management and leadership
  • Be available to commit to the hybrid delivery of the programme on a part-time basis

This is an inclusive programme and we particularly welcome applications from disadvantaged or marginalised groups.

Recognition of Prior Learning  (RPL)

With Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), prior learning is formally valued. It is a means by which prior learning is identified, assessed, and recognised by an educational institution as part of its programmes, courses, and/or modules on Ireland’s National Framework of Qualifications. This makes it possible for an individual to build on learning achieved and to be rewarded for it.

Applicants who have reached the age of 23 years by 1st January of the year in which they wish to commence the programme, but who do not possess the education requirements, may still apply to register for the course. The Programme Team will consider such applications on a case-by-case basis. Given that this programme is specifically targeted at Industry, special consideration will be given to candidates’ work experience.

Modules

The programme content includes the following modules in Year One:

Leadership & Organisational Behaviour

Understand what makes an effective leader and how to manage team dynamics and culture.

Strategic Thinking & Planning

Learn to assess business environments and make informed, long-term strategic decisions.

Finance for Managers

Gain confidence in interpreting financial data, budgeting, and making financially sound decisions.

Operations & Project Management

Explore how to manage resources, improve efficiency, and lead successful projects.

Human Resource Management

Learn how to recruit, develop, and retain talent while aligning HR practices with organisational goals.

Innovation & Change Management

Build the skills to lead innovation and manage change in fast-moving business environments.

Contact aidan.callan@dundalkskillnet.ie to book your place

Applications Closing on 03/09/2026

Enquire Now