Institute of Public Administration - IPA

Human Resource Management

The MA – Human Resource Management is a two-year part-time programme that explores the key issues in human resource management. An informed appreciation of the theories, debates and legislation that dominate HR practice is a huge advantage to any manager. This programme 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.

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 key topics in human resource management. In the second, students write a dissertation on a specific human resource management issue. Year two will normally only commence in the autumn of each year. Students that do not wish to take all three subjects in any particular semester may choose to study one or two on a phased basis.

Is This Programme For You?
This programme will be of particular interest to those who want to gain some expertise in the management of people and in the development of human resources. As with the other MA programmes, students study through a blend of distance education and intensive weekend seminars at the IPA. Students can, therefore, pursue this programme no matter where they live and can remain in full-time employment.

Entry requirements

Admission Requirements
Applicants for Postgraduate Diplomas, Postgraduate Certificates, MA, MEconSc and MSc programmes must have a primary degree or equivalent qualification.

Duration

Two academic years.

Delivery Method
A blend of distance learning and weekend seminars at the IPA campus in Dublin.

Careers or further progression

Progression
Students may enter the first year of the MA (Postgraduate Diploma) in September or January. Those who enter in September can, on successful completion of the academic year, proceed to the second year. Those who enter in January can finish within the calendar year and proceed to the second year the following September.

Further enquiries

Tel: +353 1 240 3600
Email: postgrad@ipa.ie

Subjects taught

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

Human Resource Strategy
This module will appeal to anyone interested in the theory and practice of human resource management from a strategic perspective. It explores a wide range of issues around the strategic development of human resources, including recruitment and selection, training and development, performance and competencies appraisal, industrial and employee relations, reward management, evolving organisational environment, and contemporary employment trends in the Irish context.

Managing People
The effective management of people – ensuring that they both enjoy their work and contribute to organisational success — is a central concern for all managers. This course considers, among other things, individual diversity, attitudes and behaviour, perceptions, values and ethics, managing motivation and rewards, leadership and group dynamics, inter-group effectiveness, stress and conflict management, and work-life balance.

Employment Law
There is a very significant body of legislation and case law governing employment. Managers should have a solid understanding of the central legal requirements that employers and employees must meet, including the contract of employment, individual protection, discrimination and harassment, health and safety, unfair and wrongful dismissal, redundancies, trade union legislation, arbitration and tribunals.

Semester Two
In the second semester of year two students write a dissertation on a particular human resource management issue. Students must successfully complete the taught courses before moving to the dissertation phase.

Comment

Accreditation: National University of Ireland
Place on NFQ: Level 9 (Major Award).
Award: Master of Arts
Interim Award: Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management

Assessment method

Students submit assignments, sit examinations and complete a minor dissertation.

Application date

Apply Online from August 2020, students can apply online at www.ipa.ie.

Apply by Post
Please complete the application form and return it to the IPA, together with:

• One copy of your degree or relevant qualification
• One passport-type photograph
• The semester fee
or
• A letter from your employer confirming that fees will be paid directly to the IPA.

Places on the programmes are limited and demand for places is likely to exceed the number available. Consequently, you are strongly advised to apply as early as possible.

Course fee

The cost of the programme is €5,000 per annum (includes all matriculation and examination fees, all seminars, textbooks and course material), payable in two instalments.

Enrolment and start dates

Commences: September 2020.

Application Weblink

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