Course Summary
The Higher Diploma in Business Studies at University of Galway provides a dynamic route into the business sector for graduates of non-business disciplines. With a strong foundation in core areas such as management, marketing, and finance, the programme empowers students to pursue further study or launch a rewarding career in business.
College Link
Career Sectors
This course prepares you for working in the Career Sectors below. Follow the links to get a fuller understanding of the sectors you are preparing for.
Entry Requirements
Normally a degree (NFQ Level 8 or equivalent). IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent, if applicable.
Application Details
Applications must be completed online at: https://nuigalway.elluciancrmrecruit.com/Apply/Account/Login.
An application requires a registration fee of €35. You will be asked to upload proof of identification, academic transcripts, a personal statement, an academic reference and documentation to fulfil the English requirement (where English is not your first language).
Next start date: September 2026
Fees
Fees: EU
€7,140 p.a. (including levy) 2024/25
Fees: Tuition
€7,000 p.a. 2024/25
Fees: Student levy
€140 p.a. 2024/25
Fees: Non EU
€14,500 p.a. (€14,640 including levy) 2024/25
Postgraduate students in receipt of a SUSI grant—please note an F4 grant is where SUSI will pay €4,000 towards your tuition (2024/25). You will be liable for the remainder of the total fee. A P1 grant is where SUSI will pay tuition up to a maximum of €6,270. SUSI will not cover the student levy of €140.
Postgraduate fee breakdown = Tuition (EU or NON EU) + Student levy as outlined above.
The Student
Career Interests
This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.
Enterprising
Enterprising people like situations that involve using resources for personal or corporate economic gain. Such people may have an opportunistic frame of mind, and are drawn to commerce, trade and making deals. Some pursue sales and marketing occupations. Many will eventually end up owning their own business, or in management roles in larger organisations. They tend to be very goal-oriented and work best when focused on a target. Some have an entrepreneurial inclination.
Administrative
Administrative people are interested in work that offers security and a sense of being part of a larger process. They may be at their most productive under supervisors who give clear guidelines and while performing routine tasks in a methodical and reliable way.
They tend to enjoy clerical and most forms of office work, where they perform essential administrative duties. They often form the backbone of large and small organisations alike. They may enjoy being in charge of office filing systems, and using computers and other office equipment to keep things running smoothly. They usually like routine work hours and prefer comfortable indoor workplaces.
Career Progression
Industries & Employers
Graduates are in demand across multiple sectors, including:
Technology & Software - e.g. Genesys, Salesforce, LinkedIn
Healthcare & MedTech - e.g. Medtronic
Financial Services - e.g. BNP Paribas
Agribusiness & Food - e.g. Land O’Lakes Inc.
Public Sector & Education - including roles in government agencies and universities
These employers span regional, national, and international markets, reflecting the global relevance of the qualification.