Program Overview

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MSc in International Business

The MSc in International Business has been specifically designed for those wishing to gain deeper knowledge of the international business environment as both employees or as owner/managers of businesses operating internationally. The requirement for managers to think globally but act locally is vital for success. An understanding of the international environment in which many organisations are now situated cannot be over-emphasised.

Course Details

• Course Instance ID:
• Description: MSc in International Business
• Duration: 1 year
• NFQ Level: Level 9
• Brochure: Download MSc in International Business brochure

Location and Start Date

• Location: IFSC Campus
• Start Date:
  • 14/09/2026
  • 18/01/2027

Course Content

In the full-time schedule, students are required to undertake 4 core modules in semester 1, and 3 core modules plus an elective in semester 2. In addition, students are required to complete a ten-credit research methods module which runs across semester 1 and 2. The final element of the programme requires learners to undertake a research dissertation.

Core Modules

• Global Business
• Business Models, Strategy and Tactics
• Marketing in the Global Environment
• Leading, Managing and Planning in Organisations
• Corporate Governance, Business Ethics and CSR
• Economics for Management
• Contemporary Issues in Global Finance
• Research Methods
• Dissertation

Elective Modules

• Strategic Management of Human Capital
• Business Intelligence
• Sustainable Business Leadership
• Commercial Law
• Entrepreneurship
• Management in Postmodern Markets
• Doing Business on the Cloud
• Strategic Project Management

Availability of elective choices is subject to student numbers. The course content as shown above is for indicative purposes. The College reserves the right to re-order the schedule of modules offered. Note that all modules count towards the final award classification.

Who is the Course For?

The course is aimed at anyone following a career path that requires them to step into middle to top management positions in an internationally-focused business environment. Additionally, the course can provide a transition stage for graduates from other disciplines who wish to move into the management arena either as practitioners, researchers or consultants.

Award and Progression

The MSc in International Business course is awarded by QQI at level 9 on the National Framework of Qualifications. This award will allow transfer to level 9 research degrees and in some cases progression to taught doctoral courses at level 10 on the NFQ.

Entry Requirements

Applicants are required to hold a minimum of a 2.2 honours degree in either a cognate or non-cognate area at level 8 on the National Framework of Qualifications.

For applicants whose first language is not English, please note the English language entry requirements.

For international students, please visit the specific entry requirements for your region.

The college operates a Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning (RPEL) scheme meaning non-graduates with extensive professional experience and other prior qualifications may also be considered for the course.

Laptop Requirements

National College of Ireland has implemented a Bring Your Own Device policy for all courses. Specifically, students are expected to successfully participate in lectures, laboratories and projects using a portable computer (laptop
otebook) with a substantial hardware configuration.

The recommended configuration is as follows:

• Processor: Intel 11th Gen or newer, Core i3 / i5 /i7 or Ultra 3 / 5 /7, or AMD 5000 Series or newer, Rzyen 3 / 5 /7
• Random Access Memory (RAM): 16GB or greater
• Storage: SSD (Solid State Drive) 256GB or greater
• Wireless Card: 802.11 n/ac/ax capability
• Recommended Operating Systems: Windows 11, Later Version of MAC OS

It is the responsibility of the student to ensure their computer is functioning correctly and that they have full administrator rights. NCI cannot provide support for these personal devices.

Student Laptop Loan Scheme

A Laptop Loan Scheme is available for eligible students to assist them in completing their chosen course.

Indicative Schedule

Students need to be available 09.00 - 17.00 Monday - Friday. Full-time students may also be required to attend classes after 17.00 (class days and times vary).

Please note that exams can be scheduled during the morning, afternoon or evening Monday to Saturday.

Course Delivery

On-campus face-to-face classes.

Duration

• September Starts: 1 year taught plus a final dissertation
  • Semester 1: September - December
  • Semester 2: January - May
  • Dissertation due in August
• January Starts (where available and subject to numbers): 1 year taught plus a final dissertation
  • Semester 1: January - May
  • Semester 2: May - August
  • Semester 3: September - December (Dissertation will be due in Dec)

Course Fee

• Total fee: 8,500 (EU/Ireland applicants, fees revised annually)
• International students: 17,000

NCI Scholarships

We offer a range of scholarships and discounts for both NCI and non-NCI graduates. Current NCI students and alumni can avail of a 25% discount on this course by applying for our Master's Edge Scholarship.