** Note: Programme Closed

The MSc in Management of Operations full-time programme is delivered by DCU Business School as part of the HEA jobs stimulus initiative, funded by the Government of Ireland.  The course materials and delivery methods target people who wish to upskill through the convenience of flexible online study as they seek to develop new knowledge and work-ready skills which will enable them to advance to senior management and leadership roles.

Contemporary Operations Management demands flexibility, creativity and pragmatism.  This online programme enables students to grow into senior operations management roles in technology-intensive organisations, in the financial sector, in supply chain management, manufacturing or services organisations, in both the public and private sectors.  Learners will gain a critical awareness of current opportunities and new insights into operations management in varied environments.  They will also develop new flexible, transversal skills in business management and be able to apply these to a wide range of business challenges.

The programme is designed to provide graduates of different disciplines with a unique opportunity to develop the hybrid, interdisciplinary knowledge and skills considered essential for modern business development and management.  Learners will also develop the range of investigative and analytic skills and techniques required to equip them to assume senior roles within organisations in the public and private sectors.

Key Facts

— 1 year full-time MSc programme

— 100% online, offering flexibility to participants 

— *Programme fees are funded by the Government of Ireland through the HEA Jobs Stimulus Initiative. Participants who are employed will need to contribute 10% of the programme fee.

How the programme is delivered:

This postgraduate programme is provided through online distance learning, on a full time basis.  The programme will run across three semesters, from January to December 2021.

For each module you undertake, you are given access to a specially written module text.  Most modules require that you acquire additional textbooks.  You also get access to the vast range of academic journals and other resources provided by DCU Library and increasing use is being made of these resources on the programme.

Tutorial support on this programme is provided online through the use of discussion forums in a virtual learning environment called Loop.  In addition, tutorials will be provided using a web-based tutorial system.  Additionally, because the tutorial sessions are recorded, for those who are unable to attend the live tutorial session, they can be viewed later, at a more convenient time for you, the student.

How the programme is assessed:

All modules are assessed via continuous assessment.  There are no end of year examinations.  For the taught modules, the continuous assessment normally takes the form of three assignments per module which have to be submitted at predefined points during the academic year.  For the dissertation element, you are required to submit a 15,000 word document which is largely self-directed, but with the guidance of a research supervisor.

As a graduate from this programme, you will have a firm foundation in concepts and principles of modern Operations Management. This foundation includes in-depth understanding of the role of operations in eliciting and satisfying the ever-changing needs of diverse stakeholders. A strong theory to practice emphasis will prepare students to lead and implement change.

Central to the programme is development of 21st Century Transversal Skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, interpersonal skills (e.g. teamwork, communication and organizational skills), intrapersonal skills (e.g. self-discipline, perseverance, emotional intelligence, etc.), global citizenship (e.g. openness, tolerance, respect for diversity, intercultural understanding,) and critical digital literacy, including ability to locate, interpret and act on relevant information.

The Masters of Science programme, awarded by DCU, is at level 9 on the National Framework of Qualifications.  All modules are taught on line in a virtual classroom, Loop, where you can interact with your fellow students and tutors through email, chat, skype, at whatever time suits you. Assessment is continuous with no examinations.

The following is indicative of the modules covered in each semester:

Spring Semester 

Summer Semester

Autumn Semester

Accreditation information

DCU Business School has been awarded accreditation by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), the world’s oldest and most prestigious global accrediting body for business schools. AACSB accreditation is widely recognised as the hallmark of excellence in business education, and has been earned by less than five percent of the world’s business schools.

IT Equipment and Skills required:

You should have regular access to a computer (with Microsoft Office), a broadband Internet connection, a printer and a basic headset and a webcam. Specifically, you will need access to Microsoft Word, Excel and Access.You can find detailed information on the IT skills and equipment required for this programme under the section ‘Technology Requirements’.

Graduates of this programme tell us how they have grown in confidence as a result of coming to understand the theory underpinning professional practice brought about by their studies. This confidence, together with their increased understanding and knowledge, has helped them to become more strategic and meaningful contributors in the workplace, with the ability to engage at a more senior level.

As high-level, academic qualifications are becoming increasingly important to organisations’ recruitment and promotion policies, this degree will add long term value to your career.

Graduates of this programme are currently employed in manufacturing and service organisations across a wide range of sectors including the financial services, supply chain, pharmaceutical and electronics industries. Many Graduates are also self-employed.

Read full information on eligibility and funding on http://www.dcu.ie/jobs-stimulus

General Entry Requirements

A Level 8 or higher degree in a relevant discipline (Engineering, Science, Business or Information Technology) from a recognised higher education institution, or equivalent.

There are limited numbers available on this programme so it is advisable that applicants submit their expressions of interest as soon as possible.  A selection panel will assess all applications as they are received.

In the case of all applicants to Dublin City University evidence must be provided of competence in the English language. The English Language requirements of DCU can be found here.

Residents in Ireland holding Non- EU passports should include documentary evidence of VISA/Permission to stay.