Postgraduate Diploma in Educational Leadership

The Postgraduate Diploma in Educational Leadership is a one-year, part-time postgraduate course that supports the professional growth of current and aspiring leaders in education. This diploma enables participants to develop the means of using critical reflection to enhance their own and others' professional practice.

Course Outline

The course responds to the need for an updated conception of leadership, along with coaching and mentoring in education. Leaders in organizations need to be able to motivate, coach, and mentor staff in rapidly changing environments with limited resources. The course focuses on effective leadership and schools as organizations, exploring the discourse related to leadership at all levels.

Modules

Students take the following 60 credits over the year:

• ED6510 Organisational Management of the School (15 credits)
• ED6511 Effective Leadership in Education: Theory and Practice (15 credits)
• ED6512 Leading Learning and School Improvement (15 credits)
• ED6513 Mentoring and Coaching Practicum in Educational Leadership (15 credits)

Course Practicalities

The Postgraduate Diploma in Educational Leadership is a part-time program running for 12 months from the date of first registration for the program. The program will run over one academic year from September, with four 15-credit modules held on a Saturday, each module taking place over two Saturdays.

Assessment

Assessment will be continuous over the course: three modules will be assessed with small in-class assignments during the module and larger projects following the conclusion of each module. The Mentoring and Coaching module will be assessed on the basis of a professional practice portfolio and final dissertation developed over the course of the program.

Why Choose This Course

Previous students have praised the course for its impact on their professional growth and development. The course has helped them gain invaluable knowledge and insight into educational leadership, coaching, and mentoring.

Skills and Careers Information

The course is focused on leadership development and is aimed at those with some experience of leadership in an educational setting. This course will develop practices in individuals to contribute to career-long personal professional learning and the development of others.

Requirements

Candidates must have:

• A primary honors degree (NFQ, Level 8)
• Three years or more relevant professional experience in education or a cognate field
• Relevant professional experience, equivalent to five full years, may be considered as an honors equivalent

Fees and Costs

The EU fee for this course is Part-time: 4,400.

How to Apply

1. Check dates: Check the opening and closing dates for the application process.
2. Gather documents: Scanned copies of supporting documents have to be uploaded to the application portal.
3. Apply online: Apply online through the university's application portal.

Additional Requirements

Please note you will be required to provide additional information as part of the online application process for this program. This will include the following questions:

• You may enter the details of professional or voluntary positions held.
• Please describe your motivation and readiness for this program.

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Degree Overview:

The Postgraduate Diploma in Educational Leadership at UCC is a one-year, part-time postgraduate course designed to support the professional growth of current and aspiring leaders in education. It aims to equip participants with the skills and knowledge to contribute effectively to the improvement of practice in their own professional settings and the wider professional community. It addresses the challenges of motivating, coaching, and mentoring staff in rapidly changing environments with limited resources, a theme highlighted by the Teaching Council of Ireland. The course explores various leadership styles and focuses on identifying and developing personal, professional, and pedagogical strengths and abilities to become an effective leader. It places significant emphasis on transformational leadership and team capacity-building.

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Outline:

The program consists of four modules, each worth 15 credits, totaling 60 credits over the year:

• ED6510 Organisational Management of the School (15 credits): This module explores the discourse related to leadership at all levels and focuses on developing leadership and management practices in individuals to contribute to career-long professional learning and school improvement.
• ED6511 Effective Leadership in Education: Theory and Practice (15 credits): This module delves into various leadership theories and practices, equipping participants with the knowledge and skills to apply different leadership styles effectively in educational settings.
• ED6512 Leading Learning and School Improvement (15 credits): This module focuses on strategies for leading learning and driving school improvement, equipping participants with the tools and knowledge to implement effective change initiatives.
• ED6513 Mentoring and Coaching Practicum in Educational Leadership (15 credits): This module focuses on supporting the professional learning and growth of colleagues, developing the knowledge, understanding, and skills required to use a coaching and mentoring approach to developing capacity and capability in others.
The program is delivered over one academic year from September, with each module taking place over two Saturdays. Modules are delivered through a mixed-mode approach, combining seminars, online discussions, self-study materials, and work-based learning. Attendance on the designated Saturdays is mandatory.

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Assessment:

Assessment is continuous throughout the course. Three modules are assessed through small in-class assignments during the module and larger projects following the conclusion of each module. The Mentoring and Coaching module is assessed based on a professional practice portfolio and a final dissertation developed over the course of the program.

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Teaching:

The program is delivered through a combination of seminars, online discussions, self-study materials, and work-based learning. Guest speakers, including members of the Centre for School Leadership (CSL), department inspectors, and principals, offer valuable real-world perspectives on leadership.

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Careers:

The program is designed to develop leadership skills and practices in individuals, contributing to career-long personal professional learning and the development of others. It focuses on the followership/mentorship aspects of leadership, preparing graduates for leadership roles in various educational settings. The program equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to contribute effectively to the improvement of practice in their own professional settings and the wider professional community.

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Other:

The program is open to Irish/EU students only due to its part-time nature. The course is focused on leadership development and is aimed at those with some experience of leadership in an educational setting. The program emphasizes the importance of building relationships with fellow students, fostering collaboration, and sharing insights. The faculty support team is highly accessible and provides one-to-one consultations, Canvas support, and constructive feedback on assignments. The program is highly regarded, with graduates often progressing to pursue a Master's in Education.

University College Cork

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Overview:

University College Cork (UCC) is a public research university located in Cork, Ireland. It is a constituent university of the National University of Ireland (NUI). UCC offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines.

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Services Offered:

Student Support:

UCC provides a range of support services for students, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health services.

Library:

The Boole Library offers extensive resources, including books, journals, and online databases.

Campus Life:

UCC offers a vibrant campus life with numerous student clubs, societies, and sports teams.

Accommodation:

UCC provides on-campus accommodation options for students.

International Office:

The International Office supports international students with visa applications, cultural adjustment, and other services.

Adult Continuing Education:

UCC offers a variety of programs for adult learners, including evening classes and online courses.

Continuing Professional Development:

UCC provides professional development opportunities for working professionals.

Micro-credentials:

UCC offers micro-credentials in various fields, allowing students to gain specific skills and knowledge.

Scholarships and Prizes:

UCC offers a range of scholarships and prizes to support students financially.

Transition-In Programme:

UCC provides a transition-in program for students who are new to higher education.

Graduate Attributes:

UCC focuses on developing graduate attributes such as critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

UCC offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a wide range of activities, including sports, clubs, societies, and events. The campus is located in a beautiful setting, with easy access to the city of Cork.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

World-class Education:

UCC is renowned for its high-quality education and research.

Strong Academic Programs:

UCC offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines.

Vibrant Campus Life:

UCC provides a vibrant campus life with numerous opportunities for students to get involved.

Beautiful Location:

UCC is located in a beautiful setting, with easy access to the city of Cork.

International Reputation:

UCC is a globally recognized university with a strong international reputation.

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Academic Programs:

UCC offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

• Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
• Business and Law
• Engineering and Science
• Medicine and Health Sciences
• Education
• Music

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Other:

• UCC is committed to sustainability and has been recognized as the world's first green campus.
• UCC is a member of the National University of Ireland (NUI).
• UCC has a strong research focus and is home to a number of research centers and institutes.
• UCC is a popular choice for international students, with a large international student population.