
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:
- Certificate in Management – Sept – Dec 2026 & Feb – May 2027 (2 x 12 week semesters)
- Postgraduate Diploma in Science in Management and Leadership– Sept – Dec 2027 & Feb – May 2028 (2 x 12 week semesters)
- 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.

