Applied Management Practice and Leadership in Education (Postgraduate Certificate, L9, 20 ECTS)

Management Change and Organisational Culture 

Educational organisations operate within increasingly complex policy, governance and performance environments. Leadership roles such as Principal, Centre Manager and Head of Department require advanced capability in management, organisational culture analysis and strategic change leadership.

This module examines the theory and practice of management, organisational culture and change within contemporary educational systems. It explores how leadership influences organisational behaviour, institutional effectiveness and innovation across Primary, Post-Primary, Further Education and Higher Education contexts. Students engage critically with theories of management, systems leadership, strategic planning and organisational change, while examining the human and cultural dynamics that shape educational institutions.

The module also explores human resource management, behaviour change, organisational learning and enterprise within education. Through analysis of real organisational contexts, students develop the ability to diagnose organisational culture, evaluate strategic challenges and design evidence-informed leadership responses to complex institutional environments.

Leadership Mentoring and Professional Development 

This module critically explores contemporary theories and practices of leadership, mentoring, and professional development within
educational settings. Students explore theoretical perspectives on leadership and management, including contemporary leadership models and evidence-informed leadership practice. The module examines practical leadership responsibilities such as mentoring, coaching, team development and organisational management within schools, FE centres and higher education settings.

Through engagement with case studies and applied leadership scenarios, students develop the professional judgement and leadership capabilities required to support staff development, build collaborative teams and influence organisational change in educational settings.

Minimum Entry Requirements

This programme will be delivered in an online format.

Lectures will take place online, two evenings per week, with two selected Saturdays per Semester taking place online. 

Each 10-credit module normally equates to approximately 200 total learning hours. Total learning hours include the time spent in class, such as lectures, tutorials, and practical elements, as well as time spent working independently outside of college.

The balance between these varies by discipline and level of study, and learners should be aware that workload will increase at particular times, especially when assignments are due.

The programme is assessed through a combination of continuous assessments, examinations & project work.

€1600

Applications will close on 28th August 2026 at 5pm.

Places are allocated on a first come first served basis.

Programme run subject to viable numbers.

Applied Management Practice and Leadership in Education (Postgraduate Certificate, L9, 20 ECTS)