Certificate in Employment Law
Programme Details
In Brief
Department & School
Department of Marketing and International Business
Location
MTU Bishopstown Campus, Cork
Mode of Study
Part-time
Method of Delivery
Online
Duration
One Year
Commencement Date
September 2026
Course Fee
€1,300
Credits
20 ECTS
Enquiries
- Louise P. Murphy
- louisep.murphy@mtu.ie
Overview
The Certificate in Employment Law will provide graduates with specialised skills and knowledge to develop their careers in roles that require them to proactively manage employment law challenges in their workplaces.
The practical focus of the programme, coupled with the applied teaching and assessment strategy, provides a practical bedrock of knowledge and experience which can be used to immediate effect in a multitude of business contexts. Participants will explore core facets of employment law and the legal framework for workplace well-being that will develop their skills and competencies in an applied context, assisting them in developing a toolbox of skills that is valuable and readily usable, and which will lead to an improved working environment.
The graduate profile will include applied problem-solving, clear documentation, legal research, case analysis and professional communication skills. Graduates will be equipped with practical knowledge and skills needed to address and advise on issues relating to employment contracts, performance and disciplinary management, collective negotiations and organisational risk mitigation.
Modules
Applied Employment Law (10 credits) - Semester One (Sept - Dec)
This module is designed to provide a solid grounding in contemporary employment law and workplace relations. Topics including the sources of employment law and its institutional framework, the contract of employment, core statutory rights and entitlements, termination of employment, grievance and discipline management and industrial relations law will be explored.
Throughout the module, emphasis will be placed on how relevant legal principles and developments apply to a range of substantive issues involved in managing the employment relationship in a sustainable manner, both individually and collectively. Applied learning is central. Learners will gain the theoretical foundation needed to interpret legislation and case law while also developing practical skills to address issues such as contract management, disciplinary processes, collective negotiations and organisational risk mitigation.
Workplace Wellbeing Law (10 credits) - Semester Two (Jan - May)
This module will provide learners with a sound understanding of the legal framework governing workplace equality and employee wellbeing. Emphasis will be placed on Employment Equality legislation, which provides the foundation for equality throughout the employment life cycle.
This module will also consider legal principles relevant to health and safety and managing psychological risks and hazards in the workplace, including workplace bullying and stress. It will focus on compliance and the implementation of ethical, sustainable and inclusive policies and working practices. Assessment for both modules will focus on the application of theory to realistic scenarios and challenges facing organisations in relation to employment law.
Learners will be tasked with applied problem-solving requiring the identification and effective application of knowledge of legal principles and best practice requirements. Learners will also be tasked with continuous reflection on their learning and how it impacts their own personal and professional development.
Career Options
Career opportunities for graduates of the Certificate in Employment Law would include, but are not limited to, roles within human resources and people management, employment relations advisory, policy development, trade unions and worker advocacy. Those undertaking this course will find themselves better positioned to meet the challenges of the future labour market.
Applications
The proposed minimum entry requirements for participants to be accepted on the Certificate in Employment Law are:
- A Level 7 degree with a minimum grade of 2:2 in a relevant field of study, OR
- A Level 8 degree in any discipline (particularly for applicants seeking to upskill or specialise in employment law) AND
- An updated CV demonstrating experience in a supervisory or leadership capacity.
International applicants must meet MTU’s English language requirements for undergraduate study (e.g., IELTS 6.5 or equivalent).
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Applicants without a Level 7 or 8 qualification may still be considered if they can demonstrate equivalent prior learning, in line with MTU’s RPL Policy. This may include relevant work experience and/or evidence of Continuing Professional Development.
Course Fee: €1,300
All part-time programmes at MTU will run subject to sufficient student numbers.
Please note:
- Applicants will be required to pay an acceptance fee of €1,300 online if a place on a course is offered. This fee is deductible from the overall course fee.
- You will not be charged for applying for the programme by clicking the ‘apply now’ button; you are only asked to pay an acceptance fee if a place is offered to you, and you wish to accept it.
- Course fees may be subject to an annual increase.
Louise P. Murphy
louisep.murphy@mtu.ie