There is a great deal of important work to be done in the public sector, both in developed and developing countries. Public sector organisations are responsible for providing to citizens essential services such as education, healthcare, social welfare, and infrastructure development. However, many public sector organisations need to address budget constraints, governance and accountability lapses, technological innovation, workforce development, environmental sustainability, and other issues.
If you would like to take on these challenges to improve public services to communities, then a career in public administration or management could be perfect for you – and a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Administrator will equip you for the job.
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What is a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management?
A Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management is a specialised programme providing advanced training to students who want to pursue a career in the field of public administration and management. It is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge required to manage public organisations effectively, and to address the complex challenges public sector institutions face.
The curriculum of this diploma typically covers a range of topics, including public policy analysis, strategic planning, budgeting and financial management, human resource management, leadership, and governance. Students may also specialise in a specific area of public management such as health policy, environmental management, or public sector innovation.
This programme is typically taken by mature students looking to further their careers in government agencies, nonprofit organisations, or international organisations.
What is the duration of a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management?
The duration of a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management depends on the institution offering the program. Generally, the programme takes one year of full-time study to complete, but it can also take up to two years part-time.
What qualifies one to enrol in a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management?
The requirements may vary depending on the institution offering the programme, but generally, applicants should have:
- A bachelor’s degree in a related field such as public administration, political science, economics, or business.
- Some institutions also require applicants to have public sector work experience, or experience in a related field.
Can I enrol for the diploma without a junior degree?
It is unlikely that one would be accepted to do a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management without a junior degree or an equivalent qualification such as a National Diploma in Public Administration. As the name suggests, a postgraduate diploma is designed for individuals who have completed an undergraduate degree and are looking to further their education in a specific field.
However, admission requirements may vary from one institution to another. Some institutions may consider applicants who have extensive experience in the public sector or a related field, and accept them on the basis of recognition of prior learning (RPL). But more usual is acceptance with a qualification at most two NQF levels below the postgraduate diploma, which is set at NQF level 8 – meaning you need at least an NQF level 6 qualification.
What the RPL process entails
The RPL (recognition of prior learning) process allows you to demonstrate that you have the knowledge, skills, and competencies required to complete a particular qualification, despite not having the formal academic credentials typically required for admission.
Here’s how the process works:
- Initial assessment: The institution offering the programme reviews the candidate’s qualifications and work experience to determine his or her eligibility for the RPL process.
- Portfolio preparation: If eligible, the candidate is required to prepare a portfolio that demonstrates his or her knowledge, skills, and competencies related to the programme’s curriculum. The portfolio may include certificates, work samples, and other evidence of relevant experience.
- Assessment: The portfolio is assessed by academic staff to determine whether the candidate has the necessary knowledge, skills, and competencies to complete the programme. The assessment may involve an interview or other types of evaluation.
- Recognition: If the candidate’s portfolio meets the RPL standards, his or her relevant knowledge, skills, and competencies will be recognised, and the institution may offer the candidate a place in the programme, and can grant exemptions for modules in which the candidate has demonstrated proficiency.
Note that the RPL process may vary depending on the institution offering the programme. Contact us to find out more about Regenesys School of Public Management’s RPL policies and procedures.
References
- Barzelay, M. (2001). The New Public Management: Improving Research and Policy Dialogue. University of California Press.
- Bouckaert, G., & Halligan, J. (Eds.). (2008). Managing Performance: International Comparisons. Routledge.
- Choi, K. H., & Pekkanen, R. J. (2015). The Oxford Handbook of Public Management. Oxford University Press.
How many years does a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management Take? FAQs
What is a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management?
It is an advanced programme that trains students to manage public organisations effectively and address complex sector challenges.
What is the duration of the programme?
The programme typically takes one year full-time or up to two years part-time.
Who qualifies for a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management?
Applicants need a bachelor’s degree in a related field, and some institutions may require public sector work experience.
Can I enrol without an undergraduate degree?
It’s uncommon, but candidates with extensive experience may be admitted through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).
What does the RPL process involve?
The RPL process evaluates a candidate’s experience and competencies through a portfolio and assessments for programme eligibility.
