Strategic project and programme management are in high demand across Ireland’s industries. While traditional project management focuses on single projects, this diploma equips you with a broader perspective—ensuring initiatives directly support organisational objectives.
In Ireland, the median salary for Programme Managers is €98,680 and €105,900 for Portfolio Managers, reflecting the higher responsibility and influence these positions command*. Leaders must now navigate complex change, influence decision-makers, and deliver measurable strategic outcomes.
This part-time programme management diploma, based on a university-approved curriculum and taught by 10 industry experts, awards three respected credentials. It positions you as an authority in project, programme, and portfolio leadership—equipped to translate strategy into results.
By the end of this project and programme management diploma, you will be able to:
These modules were designed to provide you with the concepts and techniques you need to use as a strategic framework to achieve the mission of the organisation.
To ensure your learning goes beyond theory, this diploma integrates real-industry case studies. You’ll see how concepts translate into practice and gain confidence in applying your skills to complex, uncertain situations.
Examples include:
These case studies provide the insight you need to tackle real-world challenges—so you’re ready to lead in any industry.
This diploma integrates IPMA’s Competence and Excellence Standards in Project, Programme and Portfolio Management:
If you’d like to explore the differences between project and programme management in more detail, read our article: Understanding Programme Management vs Project Management.
Not sure if you meet the criteria? We’d be happy to talk it through with you. Schedule a call with our educational adviser for tailored guidance on your eligibility and next steps.
Find answers to your questions and everything you need to know about Strategic Project Programme Management Diploma.
The fee for this programme covers everything you need: examination and certification costs, access to the Student Hub, live expert-led virtual classes (plus recordings), and unlimited support from our dedicated Student Support team.
Yes. To make this diploma programme more accessible, we offer two options:
You can choose the format that best suits your learning style:
Strategic Project Programme Management Diploma is best suited to those with project experience. However, if you are unsure about your background, our admissions team can advise you on eligibility and whether this course is the right fit.
Yes. The content of this programme management diploma is designed to be relevant across industries. Our students come from backgrounds such as engineering, pharmaceuticals, IT, design, construction, and many others. The skills you develop — in project, programme, and portfolio management — are highly transferable, so you can confidently apply them in any sector where strategic leadership and complex project delivery are required.
Assessment is structured to support your learning while demonstrating your competence. You will complete four written assignments during the programme, each designed to help you reflect on applying your knowledge in practice. The course concludes with a 3-hour online examination. Together, these assessments confirm your readiness to lead at a strategic level in programme management.
For Live Online and Classroom formats, sessions run once a week. You should plan for around 4–6 hours each week, including class time and personal study. This includes reflecting on case studies, preparing assignments, and engaging with course materials. Of course, the exact time can vary depending on your background and learning pace, but the structure is designed to be manageable alongside full-time work.
Yes. The credentials you earn with this programme management diploma are recognised in more than 70 countries worldwide. This global recognition ensures that your qualification is valued not only in Ireland but also if you wish to progress your career internationally.
Yes. If you are enrolled in the online format, each live class is recorded and uploaded to IPM Student Hub for a limited period. This means you never have to worry about missing important material — you can catch up at a time that suits you.
Strategic Project Programme Management Diploma is designed to accelerate your career by equipping you with both strategic and practical capabilities. You will develop the mindset and competencies that employers value most: the ability to oversee complex programmes, align projects with organisational goals, and engage stakeholders effectively. With globally recognised credentials, you’ll be positioned for senior roles such as Programme Manager, Portfolio Manager, or Head of PMO.
Eligibility for the IPMA Level C® certification requires one of the following:
As part of the application process, IPM Admissions Assessment Board will review your background to confirm eligibility, providing guidance if additional experience is required.
Yes. Candidates without a degree but with substantial professional experience in project environments are welcome to apply. Your application, including a CV, will be reviewed by IPM Admissions Assessment Board. If you are not yet eligible for the diploma, you will receive feedback and may return within two years once you have gained the required experience. This ensures that motivated professionals still have a pathway into advanced programme management education.
Certified Project Management Diploma – Ideal if you are starting your accredited project management journey or wish to strengthen your skills in core project delivery practices.
Strategic Project Program Management Diploma – Best suited for professionals with at least 3 years’ experience who are confident managing projects and ready to progress to leading programmes, portfolios, and strategic initiatives.
Project Leadership and Management Diploma – Designed for emerging leaders who want to develop management and leadership capabilities, moving from project manager to project leader with a focus on behaviours, confidence, and influence.
Explore free resources to begin your journey and build your programme management understanding.