Program Overview

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MSc in Global Hospitality Management and Intercultural Communication

The MSc in Global Hospitality Management and Intercultural Communication is a postgraduate program designed for individuals seeking to advance their expertise in Human Resource Management (HRM) and intercultural communication. The program aims to equip graduates with a comprehensive understanding of diverse cultural perspectives and the strategic business competencies necessary for effective leadership in a global context.

Program Overview

• The program is offered by the College of Business, Public Policy & Law, Shannon College of Hotel Management.
• The title of the award is Master of Science.
• The course code is MSC-GHIC.
• The average intake is 15 students.
• The program is delivered on campus.
• The NFQ level is 9.
• The award type is Major.
• The next intake is September 2026.
• The duration is 1 year full-time or 2 years part-time.
• The ECTS weighting is 90.

Why Choose This Course?

• Graduates will have excellent employment opportunities.
• The course offers a 3-month paid internship in Semester 3.
• Students can earn Certification in Hotel Industry Analytics (CHIA).

Course Information

The program is designed for those who would like to develop and strengthen their knowledge and skills in Human Resource Management (HRM) while becoming competent in intercultural communication. The program aims to prepare graduates by developing their understanding of different cultural contexts and viewpoints while attaining valuable business skills, thus enabling graduates to work successfully in various sectors across the global business market.

What Will I Study?

The full-time program consists of three semesters. Semesters 1 and 2 are delivered through in-class instruction and focus on core modules, while Semester 3 offers elective options, including research or an internship. Part-time students will complete half of these modules each academic year.

Core Modules

• Intercultural Communication for Business
• Global Business and International Human Resource Management
• Information Technology for Hospitality
• Project Management
• Hotel Asset Management
• Strategy and Innovation for Business
• Business Analytics Fundamentals
• Performance and Revenue Management

Optional Modules

• Internship
• Research Thesis

Curriculum Information

Curriculum information relates to the current academic year. Course and module offerings and details may be subject to change.

Year 1 (90 Credits)

Required Modules

• SC6120: Business Analytics Fundamentals
• SC6102: Information Technology for Hospitality
• SC6101: Global Business and International HRM
• SC6103: Performance and Revenue Management
• SC6105: Hotel Asset Management
• SC6107: Project Management
• SC6108: Strategy and Innovation for Hospitality
• SC6116: Intercultural Communication for Business

Optional Modules

• SC6122: Research Thesis Global Hospitality and Intercultural Communications
• SC6125: Internship Global Hospitality and Intercultural Communications

Unique Features

• Intercultural Communication: Strengthen your ability to collaborate across cultures - an essential skill in today's global workplace.
• Work Experience: Gain practical skills and industry exposure with a 3-month paid internship.
• Diverse Modules: Explore key topics including Intercultural Communication for Business, International Human Resource Management, and Project Management.
• Industry Connections: Learn from experienced professionals through regular guest lectures and networking opportunities on campus.
• Analytical Skill Development: Build your ability to interpret and analyze data to support smarter decision-making and measurable business impact.

Careers

Graduates of this program will emerge with a strong foundation in both hospitality management and intercultural communication, enabling them to pursue rewarding careers in a wide range of industries. The skills developed throughout the course are highly transferable and relevant to both national and international contexts.

Work Placement

One of the electives for Semester 3 is a 3-month internship. This pathway offers a unique opportunity to gain real-world experience with leading hospitality organizations in Ireland and worldwide.

Accreditations and Awards

• Certification in Hotel Industry Analytics (CHIA): A globally respected credential in the hospitality sector.
• Shannon College Hospitality Excellence Scholarship: Scholarships up to 50% are available for postgraduate students who achieve excellent academic results and show their drive and determination to succeed in the hospitality industry.

Entry Requirements

• Minimum Entry Requirements: Candidates must hold at least a Second-Class Honours Level 8 primary degree with some relevant work experience.
• English Language Entry Requirements: For applicants whose first language is not English, an English language proficiency of IELTS score of 6.5 is required (with no band less than 5.5) or equivalent.

Fees, Costs, and Funding

• Fees for Academic Year 2026/27:
  • EU Tuition: 10,700
  • Student Contribution: 0
  • Non-EU Tuition: 19,300
  • Levy: 140
  • Total Fee: 10,840 (EU), 19,440 (Non-EU)
• Workbook: You may be asked to purchase a workbook for Information Technology for Business at a cost of 20 approx.
• Certification in Hotel Industry Analytics: This exam currently costs $90 (US). Please note that this can change due to currency values.

Research Excellence

At Shannon College of Hotel Management, research underpins our commitment to advancing knowledge and best practice in the global hospitality and business sectors. Our faculty and postgraduate students engage in applied and industry-relevant research that explores innovation, sustainability, leadership, and customer experience within hospitality management.

Why University of Galway?

• World-renowned research-led university nestled in the vibrant heart of Galway city on Ireland's scenic West Coast.
• Ranked in the Top 2% of Universities Globally (QS World University Rankings).
• Ranked 1st in Ireland for Sustainable Development (THE World Rankings).
• Ranked in the Top 5 in the EU for our Commitment to Sustainability (Times Higher Education's Impact Rankings).