University of Limerick

Graduate Diploma in Public Administration

Limerick, Ireland Taught in English Open to international students

Introduction

The University of Limerick, founded in 1972 and located on a scenic riverside campus in Limerick, Ireland, is known for combining high quality teaching with strong industry engagement. With about 16,300 students including some 2,700 international learners, the university offers a broad portfolio of programs across arts, business, engineering, science, health and education. Its compact campus and emphasis on experiential learning create a supportive environment for academic and personal development.

Students benefit from practice-oriented study, extensive placement options and partnerships with local and international employers that help translate classroom learning into real-world skills. The university’s 151 programs provide flexible pathways at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, while research activity and innovation hubs support entrepreneurship and graduate employability. Campus life balances academic support with opportunities for clubs, sport and cultural engagement.

International students find dedicated services for admissions, visas, accommodation and integration, plus strong career support through co-op placements and industry links. Limerick’s location offers the advantages of a lively regional city with good transport to major Irish centres. Graduates typically pursue careers in industry, research or professional practice, benefitting from the university’s practical focus and global outlook.

About the Program

The Graduate Diploma in Public Administration is a 1-year full-time or 2-year part-time program that provides students with analytical and professional skills in public management and policy making. This program is offered by the University of Limerick in Ireland and is designed for students who want to work in the public sector. It's also an exit award for students who complete the taught program but don't proceed to the dissertation.

The curriculum includes compulsory modules in Public Administration, Economics, Organisational Behaviour, Policy Analysis, and Law. Students also participate in a research methods module and complete an individual research project. The program covers topics like collaborative governance, international economic issues, and administrative law.

Graduates of this program can pursue careers as Public Policy Managers, Government Relations Officers, Administrative Law Specialists, Public Sector Consultants, or Policy Advisors. They can work in government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private companies that interact with the public sector.

English Test Requirement

This program asks for IELTS 6.5-7.5. Here's what that's worth on the other tests universities accept, based on the official concordance tables:

TOEFL iBT
79–93
PTE Academic
58–64
Duolingo
105–120
CEFR level
B2
Convert your own score

Equivalences are approximate — confirm the exact test and score the program accepts.

Similar Programs You Can Apply To

Direct application via Global Admissions is not available for this program. Browse similar partner programs below or visit the university's site to apply directly.

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