Ulster University are now seeking applications for their MSc in Leadership and Innovation in the Public Sector course.

Selection Criteria

Candidates for this programme will have a position of influence and responsibility within their organisation for the realisation of improved service delivery. Leadership and innovation of public services, centred on the needs and requirements of the citizen, means that transformational change has to be exploited in the construction and development of a new service paradigm. However, while digital transformation has a central role in facilitating change, the results from the transformed processes will be defined from a ‘business’ outcomes-based accountability perspective to minimise cost and maximise value to the citizen. While an appropriate academic background is required the key selection criteria will be centred on participants undertaking a strategic change initiative within their organisation during this programme.

It is anticipated that participants on this programme will be drawn from a variety of public sector back-grounds.  Applicants should normally have an honours primary degree, or equivalent professional qualification. The programme committee however, will consider applicants with no primary degree, but with exceptional experience, on their merits. Particular attention should be paid to fully completing the ‘Additional Information Section’ of the application form. If needed an additional sheet may be attached.

Who is it for?

It is designed for public servants at Grade 7 (Principle Officer) with a remit to deliver strategic, transformational change initiatives. Participants will find that the course provides an extraordinary opportunity to learn from a wide range of national and international experts in the fields of leadership, innovation and transformational change in the public service.

Duration

The course will be conducted over two calendar years and will lead to the award of MSc in Leadership and Innovation in the Public Sector.

Fees

Course fees: £9,500 (payable in 3 x yearly instalments)

Prior to submitting an application, candidates should ensure that they have the support of their department.

Induction

Induction for successful candidates will be held in January 2022. The programme was revalidated in 2017 by the Ulster University and Letterkenny Institute of Technology with input from Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland civil service partners and was very well received. The MSc in Leadership and Innovation in the Public Sector programme is up-dated year-on-year to directly support strategic change management and reform agendas.

Delivery Mode

There will be six two-day residential sessions, two in Northern Ireland, two in the Dublin area and one each at Ulster University at the Magee Campus and at Letterkenny Institute of Technology*. There is also a small-group Action Learning Set on a day between each residential session over the course of the two-year period.

* The COVID-19 situation will be closely monitored to determine if changes are necessary to the appropriate delivery method/location for modules.  Therefore, the locations/delivery modes mentioned above may be subject to change.

Closing date for applications:  The closing date for applications will be Friday 17th December 2021. 

For further information, including how to apply, contact Course Director Tonya Cullen at t.cullen@ulster.ac.uk.