Program Overview

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Introduction to the Higher Diploma in Business Studies

The Higher Diploma in Business Studies is an online, part-time postgraduate course designed to provide non-business graduates with a well-rounded understanding of business, advancing their career in a business setting.

Course Overview

Title of Award

The title of the award for this course is Higher Diploma.

Course Code

The course code for this program is DBS1.

Average Intake

The average intake for this course is 20 students.

Delivery

This course is delivered online.

NFQ

The National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) level for this course is 8.

Award Type

The award type for this course is Major.

Next Intake

The next intake for this course is September 2026.

Duration

The duration of this course is 2 years, part-time.

ECTS Weighting

The ECTS weighting for this course is 60.

Course Information

What will I study?

This online course provides training in the fundamental skills of business administration, which enables graduates to play an active role in the development and management of business enterprises. Emphasis is placed on both individual and group assignments, with a focus on developing both applied skills and key interpersonal skills.

Curriculum

This course is delivered through a combination of:

• Live online lectures/tutorials
• Recorded lectures
• Online Learning Resources
• Reading material and assignments
• Online discussions

Module Lists

Year 1

• Business Information Systems
• Principles of Microeconomics
• Introduction to Financial Accounting
• Management: Enterprise and Society
• Introduction to Management Accounting
• Leading and Managing People

Year 2

• Introduction to Marketing
• Marketing Management
• And select 4 modules from the following options:
  • Organisational Psychology and Analysis
  • Business Law I
  • Management of Organisational Change
  • Applied Microeconomics for Business
  • Business Intelligence and Analytics
  • Innovation and Entrepreneurship
  • Negotiation Skills
  • Management Skills
  • Implementing Digital Innovation
  • Cases in Marketing Strategy

Unique Features

This course provides a pathway for graduates to progress to level 9 postgraduate studies in business.

Careers

Graduates can progress in a diverse range of industries, such as marketing, financial services, information systems, and human resources. Graduates can pursue further postgraduate study at Masters level, such as the MSc Marketing, MSc Industrial Relations, HR Management courses.

Learning and Assessment

Students are required to participate in online discussions and activities throughout the year. All modules are individually assessed. Typically, assessments consist of assignments and end-of-year/end-of-semester examinations. Accountancy exams are held on campus.

Recognition of Prior Learning

If you do not meet the standard entry criteria for this course, you may gain entry through our Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy. Applicants may also be able to earn module exemptions based on their prior learning.

Accreditations & Awards

This course is approved as part of Engineers Ireland's Registered Training Providers Programme.

Entry Requirements and Fees

Entry Requirements

Applicants require a Level 8 honours degree of H2.2 standard or above. This course is open to graduates of any discipline who wish to acquire a grounding in business practices. Applicants are expected to possess a good level of computer literacy.

Fees, Costs and Funding

Fees for Academic Year 2026/27

• Course Type: PG Diploma Part Time
• Year: 1
• EU Tuition: 2,750
• Student Contribution:
• Non-EU Tuition: 3,250
• Levy: 140
• Total Fee:
• Total EU Fee: 2,890
• Total Non-EU Fee: 3,390

Scholarships

There are several funding opportunities available for this course, including the Adult Learning Tuition Scholarship and Skillnet Funding.

About University of Galway

Founded in 1845, University of Galway has earned international recognition as a research-led university with a commitment to top-quality teaching. The university is ranked in the top 2% of universities globally and is ranked first in Ireland for sustainable development.