Program Overview

MSc in International Business

Course Description

The MSc in International Business has been specifically designed for individuals seeking to gain deeper knowledge of the international business environment, either as employees or as owner/managers of businesses operating on a global scale. This course emphasizes the necessity for managers to think globally while acting locally, making an understanding of the international environment essential for success.

Course Duration and Structure

• Duration: 1 year
• NFQ Level: Level 9

Location and Start Dates

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

Course Content

Students in the full-time schedule are required to undertake the following modules:

• 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 (availability subject to student numbers):
  • 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

The course includes a comprehensive research methods module running across two semesters and a dissertation as a final element of the programme.

Target Audience

This course is tailored for individuals aiming for middle to top management positions in an internationally-focused business environment. It also provides a pathway for graduates from various disciplines interested in transitioning into management roles, whether as practitioners, researchers, or consultants.

Award and Progression

The MSc in International Business is awarded by QQI at level 9 on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ). This qualification facilitates progression to level 9 research degrees and, potentially, to taught doctoral courses at level 10 on the NFQ.

Entry Requirements

• Applicants must possess a minimum of a 2.2 honours degree in either a cognate or non-cognate discipline at level 8 on the NFQ.
• For non-native English speakers, English language entry requirements apply.
• The college has a Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning (RPEL) scheme, allowing non-graduates with extensive professional experience to be considered for the course.

Technical Requirements

National College of Ireland has instituted a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policy. Students are expected to participate in lectures and projects using a portable computer with substantial hardware capabilities, as outlined below:

• Processor:
  • Intel 11th Gen or newer, Core i3 / i5 / i7
  • AMD 5000 Series or newer, Ryzen 3 / 5 / 7
• 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 or later versions of macOS (Chromebooks are not recommended)

Student Laptop Loan Scheme

A Laptop Loan Scheme is available for eligible students to assist with their course requirements.

Indicative Schedule

Students are required to be available from 09:00 to 17:00, Monday to Friday. Full-time classes may be scheduled after 17:00, and examinations can occur on various days and times throughout the week.

Course Fee

• Total Fee: 8,500 for EU/Ireland applicants (revised annually).
• Special provisions are available for fee payments, including direct debit plans.
• International Students' Fees: 17,000 (subject to annual revision).

Scholarships and Discounts

Various scholarships and discounts are available for both NCI and non-NCI graduates, including a 25% discount for current NCI students and alumni through the Master's Edge Scholarship.