MTU Business Academy PR and New Media Master’s graduate and co-founder of Auctioneera Estate Agency, Helen O’Keeffe.

MTU doing the business

These flexible options are designed to fit a busy lifestyle, enabling students to advance their education and career without sacrificing their other commitments.

Courses are delivered in the evenings or weekends, with some fully online and others combining online and on-campus sessions.

PR and New Media Master’s graduate and co-founder of Auctioneera Estate Agency, Helen O'Keeffe said she found her calling after enrolling at the MTU Business Academy.

“After years in insurance, marketing, and sales, I sought a career change,” said Helen. “Returning to college life after a decade was daunting, but the supportive lecturers made it easier.

“The course's diverse content, especially the media aspect, exposed me to cutting-edge marketing topics. The symbiotic relationship between PR and social media became evident as platforms evolved.

“Hands-on projects, like creating a PR plan for Cork Racecourse, gave valuable insights into client expectations. Guest speakers shared their PR experiences, emphasising crisis management in today's online world.”

After completing the programme, Helen secured a contract with a dance studio where she honed her content creation and social media skills.

“Later, I worked as a content marketing executive at a SEO agency, followed by co-founding Auctioneera, an estate agency celebrating its 1,000th property sale, thanks to the MA programme. I recommend it wholeheartedly to anyone interested in PR or refining their marketing skills,” said Helen.

Patrick Shields, MBA in Strategy graduate and joint managing director at Cliff Group, says returning to MTU after 16 years was a nostalgic experience.

He said: “Having explored familiar classrooms from my earlier Diploma in Business Studies, Hotel & Catering Management, the journey felt rewarding.

“Working in the hotel industry across different countries and eventually managing prestigious hotels, I decided to return to Ireland in 2018.

“Completing the MBA in Strategy was a long-cherished personal ambition, leading to my promotion as joint managing director. The programme not only provided valuable insights into management but also allowed me to form incredible friendships. Collaborating with classmates from diverse backgrounds expanded my horizons and boosted my confidence.”

Patrick said the flexibility of the course, delivered mostly online, suited his schedule perfectly.

“Analytical elements and financial modules intrigued me, offering a new perspective for my professional practice. My thesis on retention strategies for the post-Covid hotel industry aligned with our future plans. Though I miss the course, I cherish fond memories from my time at MTU,” he said.