MSc
(Education Leadership & Management)
The next course starts in September 2025
The MSc is aimed at educators in the Irish education system but can equally be applied to any other country. The course builds on the pracademic approach of Longford College, where the theory is blended with a practical component. It is helpful, but not essential, that potential participants have some teaching experience in primary or post-primary schools. In doing this course, it is assumed that you are motivated to move into a leadership position in education and be, or wish to be, an innovative thinker.
The core focus of leadership and management is broad enough to apply to educators at different stages of their careers. The programme draws on wide-ranging international literature to focus on current policy, practice, and leadership challenges.
The course is delivered online and blended. Lectures are delivered live to ensure interaction with professors and fellow students. Where possible (depending on social-distancing rules), there will be optional residential weekends. The programme is intended to provide a dynamic and transformative learning experience for all participants.
We are committed to developing our participants’ critical voices through reading, discussion, peer learning, presentations, and critical review. We have tried and tested these participatory learning experiences to ensure that high-quality learning outcomes are achieved.
This course provides educators with the knowledge, skills, and competencies to support their career progression towards senior management positions.
Progress to an MBA in Education Management
After you complete your MSc, you can elect to add one more year of study and graduate with an MBA degree if you wish.
-
This module introduces students to the fundamental principles and practices of educational research methods or action research, depending on the chosen track. Students will explore various research methodologies, including quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-method approaches, and learn how to apply them to investigate issues within the field of education. Through practical exercises and case studies, students will develop critical thinking skills and the ability to design and conduct research studies relevant to educational contexts.
-
In this module, students delve into the theory and practice of transformational leadership and management within educational settings. They examine the characteristics and strategies of effective leaders who inspire positive change and foster innovation in schools and educational organizations. Through analysis of real-world examples and interactive discussions, students gain insights into developing their leadership capabilities and cultivating a supportive and empowering environment conducive to educational excellence.
-
This module focuses on the essential skills of managing people and cultivating relationships within the context of educational leadership and management. Students explore theories and techniques for effective communication, team building, conflict resolution, and interpersonal skills development. By understanding the dynamics of human behavior and organizational relationships, students learn to create collaborative and inclusive environments that enhance teaching and learning outcomes.
-
This module is designed to help students enhance their personal effectiveness and decision-making abilities as educational leaders and managers. Through self-assessment, reflection, and experiential learning activities, students identify their strengths, weaknesses, values, and leadership styles. They also learn strategies for setting goals, prioritizing tasks, managing time, and making informed decisions that align with organizational objectives and promote positive change in educational settings
-
This module explores the principles and practices of designing, implementing, and leading innovative learning environments that foster creativity, engagement, and student success. Students examine emerging trends, technologies, and pedagogical approaches for transforming traditional educational spaces into dynamic hubs of learning and exploration. Through hands-on projects and collaborative initiatives, students develop the skills and vision needed to create vibrant learning communities that inspire curiosity and lifelong learning
-
This module delves into the dynamic marketing realm within the sports industry, highlighting the impact of disruptive innovation in the digital era. It examines how emerging technologies, particularly AI, transform the sports marketing landscape, challenging traditional approaches. In this module, students learn how to effectively lead and manage change initiatives within educational organisations. They explore theories of change management, resistance, organisational development, and strategies for communicating, planning, and implementing change processes. Through case studies and practical exercises, students develop the skills to navigate challenges, engage stakeholders, and sustain momentum for continuous improvement and innovation in learning environments.
-
The research project module allows students to apply their knowledge and skills acquired throughout the program to conduct an independent research project in an area of interest within the field of education leadership and management. Under the guidance of faculty mentors, students design, execute, and present their research findings, contributing valuable insights to the scholarly community and making meaningful contributions to the improvement of educational practices and policies.
TYPE
Master Degree Level 9
CERTIFICATION
Rushford Business School (Geneva)
DURATION
1 Year (Part-Time)
COURSE CODE
RBSMSCED
DELIVERY METHOD
Blended online
COST
NORMAL PRICE €3500 PA
DAYS
One session per week
Course Info.
-
A teacher should consider undertaking this course to enhance their leadership skills, gain valuable insights into educational management practices, and stay abreast of current trends and innovations. This program equips educators with the knowledge and tools to effectively lead and manage educational environments, empowering them to create positive change, foster innovation, and drive student success.
-
This course offers a comprehensive framework for understanding and applying theories and concepts essential in managing organizational performance, resource allocation, and personnel, as well as leading organizations effectively. Participants will develop the capacity to navigate complex business situations by leveraging both internal and external organizational contexts, thereby fostering social and economic benefits. They will learn to formulate long-term visions, set goals, and craft strategies for achieving organizational objectives, with a keen emphasis on prudent financial resource allocation. Through critical analysis and synthesis of information across diverse contexts, participants will hone their ability to make informed decisions and develop actionable solutions to real-world challenges. Moreover, the program fosters the development of professional inquiry skills, enabling participants to identify problems, utilize evidence-based knowledge, and propose practical solutions. Ethical considerations are emphasized throughout the curriculum, encouraging participants to respond to management dilemmas with integrity and social responsibility. Additionally, participants will gain proficiency in navigating digital and entrepreneurial work environments and communicating effectively across various media channels. The course also emphasises cultivating ethical leadership qualities that transcend functional perspectives, fostering a reflective approach to learning from workplace experiences.
Culminate in a Comprehensive Project: This MBA programme aims to culminate in a comprehensive project that aligns with your goal of writing a book on AI and adult education. It can be a thesis, research paper, or strategic business plan that serves as the foundation for your book.
-
Completing this course opens up diverse career avenues across industries and sectors, including business management, human resources management, project management, consulting, entrepreneurship, and leadership roles in both public and private organisations. Graduates may lead teams as business managers, overseeing operations, strategic planning, and resource allocation. Alternatively, opportunities exist in human resources departments, where graduates can work as HR managers, focusing on recruitment, training, and policy development. Others may excel in project management roles, guiding teams to execute projects efficiently. Management consulting offers another avenue, allowing graduates to provide expert advice on organizational improvement. Entrepreneurship beckons for those inclined towards starting and managing their ventures, leveraging their skills to identify opportunities and drive success. Public sector leadership roles are also viable, with opportunities in government, education, healthcare, and non-profits, where graduates can apply their expertise to effect positive change. Some may opt for academic or research careers, delving into scholarly research, teaching, or training. Overall, this course equips individuals with versatile skills for thriving in various managerial and leadership capacities, offering a wealth of opportunities for professional growth and impact.
-
The Academic and English Language Proficiency entry requirements for the MBA programme.
Bachelor's Degree: A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution is typically a fundamental requirement for admission to the MSc degree.
Work Experience: Our MSc programs prefer applicants to have some work experience, often ranging from 2 to 5 years or more. Work experience is valued because it contributes to classroom discussions and brings real-world perspectives to the programme.
TOEFL or IELTS (for International Students): If you are an international applicant and English is not your native language, you may need to demonstrate English language proficiency through tests like TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or IELTS (International English Language Testing System).
Transcripts and Academic Records: You must provide transcripts or academic records from all previous educational institutions you have attended. These documents verify your academic qualifications.
CV: A current resume or curriculum vitae is required to outline your professional and academic background, work experience, achievements, and relevant skills.
