DCU Business School announces new supply chain Springboard course in partnership with Drogheda Institute of Further Education

Professor Lisa Looney, Vice President of Academic Affairs in Dublin City University and David McDonnell, Principal, Drogheda Institute of Further Education

Level 9 course offers mix of online and campus-based learning

Dublin City University Business School has partnered with Drogheda Institute of Further Education (DIFE) for a new Level 9 Graduate Certificate Management (Operations and Supply Chain), aimed at professionals who want to upskill in process efficiency, leadership, and logistics planning.

Ireland’s supply chain sector is experiencing a critical talent shortage, with significant gaps in logistics, procurement, and operations roles. By addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals in supply chain management, this programme provides a vital pathway for individuals looking to enhance their careers and contribute to the sector’s development, in Ireland and globally. The programme is aligned with industry trends, ensuring that graduates acquire the knowledge and practical skills necessary to meet real-world challenges.

The course is built to accommodate working schedules, with 75% of the coursework delivered online and classes held in the late afternoon and early evenings. The remaining 25% of the course will be campus-based in DIFE.

Last year, DCU and DIFE signed agreements that will underpin pathways from DIFE to a range of programmes in Science, Law and Business across three of the university faculties. The pathways add to those already announced in September 2023 to Nursing programmes in DCU, and follow from an overarching MOU which was signed between the institutions in July 2023.

Speaking about the new programme, DCU President Professor Dáire Keogh said:

“The delivery of university programmes in Drogheda is a first for the town. It is a tangible result of DCU’s ambitious partnership with DIFE, which has already opened up new Further Education pathways for learners in the region. Programmes such as this address critical skills gaps and drive economic opportunities in Drogheda and beyond.”

Professor Dominic Elliott, Executive Dean of DCU Business School, said:

“Working with our partner DIFE, and by working closely with leading businesses, supply chain professionals, and industry representative bodies, the DCU Business School has built a programme that reflects the latest in best practice and emerging trends in the field. This will ensure that students on the Graduate Certificate programme gain cutting edge skills and knowledge. A DCU graduate has a reputation for our rounded and grounded, work-ready students, who leave their studies as highly valuable assets to employers.”

David McDonnell, Principal at Drogheda Institute of Further Education said:

“This partnership with Dublin City University marks a significant milestone for Drogheda Institute and our commitment to empowering learners with industry-relevant, future-focused qualifications. The Level 9 Graduate Certificate in Management (Operations and Supply Chain) offers professionals in our region a unique opportunity to elevate their careers through advanced skills in leadership, logistics, and operational excellence. We are proud to collaborate with DCU in shaping the next generation of supply chain leaders.”