Talent Management (Master of Arts, L9, 90 ECTS)

The Master of Arts in Talent Management at Technological University of the Shannon is a flexible, part-time, fully online Level 9 programme designed for professionals who want to operate at a strategic, evidence-based level in people management, organisational development, and talent leadership. As organisations across all sectors face increasing pressure to attract, develop and retain skilled people in a rapidly changing labour market, the ability to manage talent strategically has become one of the most critical leadership capabilities in modern organisations.

This programme is built around a two-stage structure that provides both flexibility and clear progression. In Stage 1, students complete the Postgraduate Diploma in Arts in Talent Management (60 ECTS), developing advanced knowledge and practical skills in areas such as employee wellbeing and engagement, leadership and organisational psychology, global talent management, digital and AI-enabled HR, and applied organisational analysis. In Stage 2, students progress to a 30 ECTS dissertation, allowing them to undertake a substantial, applied research project in an area of talent management or organisational practice that is directly relevant to their professional context or career ambitions.

A defining feature of this Master’s programme is its strong emphasis on applied, practice-based learning and research-informed decision-making. Students are encouraged throughout to bring their own organisational challenges into the programme, using theory, evidence and structured analysis to design and evaluate solutions. For those not currently in employment, carefully designed case-based projects provide the same applied perspective.

The programme reflects the reality that talent management today sits at the intersection of people, strategy and technology. Students explore not only core talent management and HR concepts, but also the impact of digital transformation, data, automation and artificial intelligence on how organisations recruit, develop, manage and support their workforce. Ethical leadership, inclusion, wellbeing, governance and sustainability are embedded throughout the curriculum, ensuring that graduates are equipped to make responsible and socially informed decisions in complex organisational environments.

The dissertation in Stage 2 represents the culmination of the learning journey. It allows students to demonstrate their ability to conduct applied research, critically evaluate practice, and contribute new insights to their organisation or sector. Graduates of the programme emerge not just as competent practitioners, but as reflective, analytical and strategic professionals capable of shaping people strategy, leading change, and influencing organisational performance at a senior level.

This programme is particularly suited to professionals working in HR, people management, learning and development, organisational development, and leadership roles, as well as those seeking to transition into strategic talent management positions. Delivered fully online, it is designed to be academically rigorous while remaining compatible with full-time work and professional commitments.

The Master of Arts in Talent Management (90 ECTS) is a two (2) year programme.