Home › Courses▻Postgraduate Taught Courses▻College of Business, Public Policy, and Law▻Accounting (Master of)

Accounting (Master of)

Expand all

Meet a Student - Patric Evason John Currie - Programme Director Meet a Student - Patric Evason Meet a Student - Patric Evason Meet a Student - Patric Evason KPMG Led Analytics Summer School Meet a Student - Patric Evason Accounting Talks Postgraduate Open Day 24 November 2020 Meet a Student - Patric Evason Accounting Talks Postgraduate Open Day 2 March 2021

Course Overview

Employer Cloud

Chartered Accountants Ireland Exemptions

The programme syllabus is closely based on the CAP2 syllabus of Chartered Accountants Ireland (CAI). Therefore, significant exemptions from the CAI examinations are available. Graduates of the MAcc are granted full exemption from CAI’s CAP2 examinations, provided that they have full exemption from CAI’s CAP1 examinations before taking the MAcc.

MAcc graduates’ success in recent professional examinations 

Our graduates consistently achieve very high places in the Final Admitting Examination of Chartered Accountants Ireland and in the final examination of the Irish Tax Institute (AITI). In the recent professional exams, our graduates Aisling Curtin and Sarah Finnegan obtained second and third place respectively in CAI’s Final Admitting Examination and Nora Cosgrove was placed second in the final examinations of the Irish Taxation Institute.

 

Summer Schools

The programme hosts two summer schools which are held after the summer exams, typically in May and June. The topics vary from year to year. See details of the 2023 Summer Schools below:

  • Summer school #1: Analytics in Accounting and Auditing, delivered by KPMG ( 10th - 16th May 2023) This summer school aims to give participants a rich understanding of the use of software and cognitive technologies to analyse audit and accounting data. The summer school demonstrates KPMG tools which were developed to harness the power of technology and bring greater vigour, precision and meaningful insights to the increasing age of data. Students are provided with an opportunity to see how data and analytics are used in a practical setting, bringing meaning, life and understanding into accounting information. 
  • Summer school #2: (Financing Net Zero, delivered by Barry Gavin) (29th May - 2nd June) The objective of this summer school is to enable students to be able to hold their own with professionals working in the sustainability sector by developing a knowledge of the concepts, language, structures, process, risks, challenges and opportunities for corporate sustainability. In particular, students will learn to appreciate the role that finance has in enabling the transition to Net Zero.

Save

Save

Applications and Selections

Applications are made online via the University of Galway Postgraduate Applications System. 

Who Teaches this Course

The following staff from the Accountancy and Finance Discipline at NUI Galway are involved in teaching the MAcc programme:

researcher
Mr. John Austin Currie
B.Comm., M.B.S.,
View Profile
researcher
Professor Breda Sweeney
BComm, MAcc, PhD, FCA
View Profile
researcher
Prof William Golden
B.Comm., M.B.S., Ph.D.
View Profile
researcher
Dr Emer Curtis
B.Comm, F.C.A., PhD (Manchester)
View Profile
researcher
Dr Patricia Martyn
B.Comm, Dip, A.C.M.A., PhD.
Lecturer Above The Bar
Accountancy & Finance
Room 354
Cairnes Building
NUI Galway
View Profile
researcher
Prof Emer Mulligan
BComm, HDip in Ed, AITI, MBS, PhD
Personal Professor in Taxation and Finance
Discipline of Accountancy and Finance
J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics
NUI Galway
View Profile
researcher
Dr. Geraldine Robbins
BComm,HDip Ed, ACMA,MBA,PhD
View Profile
researcher
Dr Josephine Igoe
B.Comm, MBS, PhD
View Profile
researcher
Ms Mary Cosgrove
View Profile
researcher
Ms Andrea Crean
LECTURER ABOVE THE BAR
J.E. Cairnes School of Business & Economics
Top Floor
Cairnes Building
NUI Galway
View Profile
researcher
Ms. Mary Barrett
Dip.B.A, ACCA, M.B.S.
Lecturer
Dept. of Accountancy & Finance
Room 362
Cairne's Building
NUI Galway
View Profile
researcher
Dr Frank Conaty
B.Comm., FCA., PhD
Lecturer Above The Bar
Dept. of Accountancy & Finance
Room 351
Cairnes Building
NUI Galway
View Profile
researcher
Ms Patricia Lenihan
B.Comm,H-Dip Systems Analysis
View Profile
researcher
Ms Sharon Cotter
BComm., F.C.A, HDip (Ed)
LECTURER BELOW THE BAR
E: SHARON.COTTER@nuigalway.ie
View Profile

Requirements and Assessment

In each module there is a combination of continuous assessment and end-of-semester exam. Depending on the module, the continuous assessment typically consists of interim exam, student presentations, case studies, written reports, and structured debates. The end-of semester exams are held in December and April/May each year. 

Candidates also complete two summer schools in May/June. The summer school topics differ from year to year. Recent summer schools have included: Data analytics in audit and accounting; Financing net zero; Digital disruption and performance measurement.

Key Facts

Entry Requirements

A H2.1 degree (NFQ Level 8 or equivalent) in Business or Commerce, with a significant specialisation in Accounting. IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent, ifapplicable. Students are required to have full (or nearly full) exemptions from the CAI’s CAP1 examinations before embarking on the MAcc programme.


Additional Requirements

Duration

1 year, full-time

Next start date

September 2023

A Level Grades ()

Average intake

35

QQI/FET FETAC Entry Routes

Closing Date

Offers are made on a rolling basis.

NFQ level

Mode of study

ECTS weighting

90

Award

CAO

Course code

MACC-AY

Course Outline

In addition to the Curriculum below students complete EITHER two summer schools OR a research dissertation. Recent and forthcoming summer schools include:

  • Management Control Systems and Innovation.
  • Audit and Accounting in the 21st Century: Data & Analytics, Artificial Intelligence and Related Technological Tools

Curriculum Information

Curriculum information relates to the current academic year (in most cases).
Course and module offerings and details may be subject to change.

Glossary of Terms

Credits
You must earn a defined number of credits (aka ECTS) to complete each year of your course. You do this by taking all of its required modules as well as the correct number of optional modules to obtain that year's total number of credits.
Module
An examinable portion of a subject or course, for which you attend lectures and/or tutorials and carry out assignments. E.g. Algebra and Calculus could be modules within the subject Mathematics. Each module has a unique module code eg. MA140.
Optional
A module you may choose to study.
Required
A module that you must study if you choose this course (or subject).
Semester
Most courses have 2 semesters (aka terms) per year.

Year 1 (90 Credits)

Required AY5103: Management Accounting


Semester 1 | Credits: 5

The objective of this module is to facilitate students in developing and applying a comprehensive understanding of the role of management accounting information in business decision-making, especially the analysis of complex and unstructured decision situations in a strategic context. The module explores the role of management accounting information in supporting the strategic management processes in an organisation, including strategic cost management and strategic pricing. The module also addresses the design and application of costing systems (both traditional and innovative) in ways which recognise context-specific considerations of a technical, managerial, and cost-benefit nature. Furthermore, the module addresses the strategic importance of performance measurement systems which use both financial and nonfinancial measures of performance.
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes
  1. Analyse structured and unstructured business decision situations in a strategic context.
  2. Apply and critically evaluate the role of advanced variance analysis and standard costing systems.
  3. Critically evaluate the usefulness of cost management systems (both traditional and activity-based) in business management.
  4. Utilise financial and nonfinancial performance measures to critically evaluate organisational performance.
Assessments

This module's usual assessment procedures, outlined below, may be affected by COVID-19 countermeasures. Current students should check Blackboard for up-to-date assessment information.

  • Written Assessment (85%)
  • Continuous Assessment (15%)
Module Director
Lecturers / Tutors
The above information outlines module AY5103: "Management Accounting" and is valid from 2020 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.

Required AY5104: Investment and Financing Decisions


Semester 1 | Credits: 5

The objectives of this module are to facilitate students in developing and applying a comprehensive understanding of the role of corporate finance in investment and financing decision-making, especially the analysis of complex structured and unstructured decision situations in a strategic context. The module explores the role of finance theory and corporate finance tools and techniques in supporting the strategic capital investment and financing decision-making processes in an organisation.
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes
  1. Analyse current and proposed, structured and unstructured capital investment, working capital, and financing situations in a strategic context and offer corporate financial decision recommendations to senior management teams to facilitate the realisation of corporate strategic goals.
  2. Understand and apply a range of corporate finance tools and techniques to assist in making investment and financing decisions.
  3. Critically evaluate the usefulness, relevance and limitations of corporate finance theory in supporting investment and financing business decision-making.
  4. Apply, and critically evaluate the relevance of financial and non-financial information in a range of investment and financing decision-making situations.
Assessments

This module's usual assessment procedures, outlined below, may be affected by COVID-19 countermeasures. Current students should check Blackboard for up-to-date assessment information.

  • Written Assessment (75%)
  • Continuous Assessment (25%)
Module Director
Lecturers / Tutors
The above information outlines module AY5104: "Investment and Financing Decisions" and is valid from 2021 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.

Required AY5116: Auditing I


Semester 1 | Credits: 5

The objective of this course is to give students a professional understanding of the role and function of the External Auditor, the principles that underpin modern auditing and the fundamental core processes involved in the audit of the Financial Statements of a corporate entity. As well as focusing on the role of Auditing in a business and societal context, this module will introduce students to the domestic and European legal and regulatory auditing environment and the challenges for auditing in the modern era.
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes
  1. Demonstrate an understanding of the role of auditing in society, the background, context, and scope of the core audit opinion and audit report.
  2. Display a comprehensive understanding of the audit environment including the ethical and regulatory framework and legal environments.
  3. Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the audit process (from planning the audit to issuing the audit report) and the practical application of ‘Auditing Standards’.
  4. Formulate an appropriate audit strategy and planned audit procedures for differing audit objectives and differing organisations.
  5. Critically assess differing auditing environments and suggest appropriate auditor responses in terms client acceptances and continuance, audit planning & processes, and appropriateness and relevance of audit evidence.
Assessments

This module's usual assessment procedures, outlined below, may be affected by COVID-19 countermeasures. Current students should check Blackboard for up-to-date assessment information.

  • Written Assessment (80%)
  • Continuous Assessment (20%)
Module Director
Lecturers / Tutors
The above information outlines module AY5116: "Auditing I" and is valid from 2020 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.

Required AY5118: Advanced Financial Reporting I


Semester 1 | Credits: 5

The objective of this module is develop students’ understanding of the regulatory framework for the international financial reporting. They will build a conceptual understanding of advanced problems of financial reporting together with the ability to apply complex international financial reporting standards (IFRS) to practical situations. Students will consolidate their ability to prepare and analyse complex financial statements.
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes
  1. Describe and evaluate the framework for financial reporting applicable locally and internationally.
  2. Demonstrate the processing of typical accounting recurring transactions and posting journal entries for complex transactions.
  3. Critically evaluate the conceptual problems posed by accounting for the IFRS covered on this module
  4. Explain the requirements of the IFRS and sections of FRS 102 covered on the module and apply them to practical financial reporting and financial analysis problems
  5. Synthesise the requirements of multiple IFRS in the preparation and analysis of a set of financial statements.
  6. Analyse a complex set of financial statements, including preparation of a univariate ratio analysis and an insightful commentary on company performance.
Assessments

This module's usual assessment procedures, outlined below, may be affected by COVID-19 countermeasures. Current students should check Blackboard for up-to-date assessment information.

  • Written Assessment (80%)
  • Continuous Assessment (20%)
Module Director
Lecturers / Tutors
The above information outlines module AY5118: "Advanced Financial Reporting I " and is valid from 2020 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.

Required AY5100: Taxation I


Semester 1 | Credits: 5

The objective of this course is to provide an insight into and appreciation of the impact of taxation on business and business decisions. It will assist students to understand and apply the legislation, procedure and practices governing Capital Gains Tax. It will also provide an understanding of the theoretical basis for taxation and address ethical, and international aspects of taxation.
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes
  1. Be able to apply the general principles of capital gains tax to prepare a computation for both individuals and companies and identify the timing and manner of payments required.
  2. Understand the rules relating to various reliefs and exemptions to capital gains tax computations and, in particular, apply the rules and reliefs relating to development land, retirement relief, entrepreneur relief, transfer of a business to a company and acquisition by a company of its own shares.
  3. Understand the rules which apply to share transactions and calculate gains arising on shares acquired by direct purchase, under a rights issue, a bonus issue or a scrip issue and employee share option schemes.
  4. Understand how capital gains are taxed in companies and within groups of companies.
  5. Understand and apply the general principles of stamp duty to prepare a computation and identify the timing and manner of payments required.
  6. Understand the circumstances in which various reliefs and exemptions apply and be able to apply the rules, in particular in relation to associated parties and the transfer of a business.
  7. Understand the philosophy of taxation and appreciate its implications for social policy, development and governance.
  8. Have an overview of tax policy, design and legislation and understand ethical perspectives on taxation.
  9. Have an overview and understanding of tax risk management principles and practice.
  10. Have an overview of key international tax principles.
  11. Apply income tax rules relating to foreign income and employment income.
Assessments

This module's usual assessment procedures, outlined below, may be affected by COVID-19 countermeasures. Current students should check Blackboard for up-to-date assessment information.

  • Written Assessment (60%)
  • Continuous Assessment (40%)
Module Director
Lecturers / Tutors
The above information outlines module AY5100: "Taxation I" and is valid from 2021 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.

Required AY518: Research Project


12 months long | Credits: 20

The objective of this module is to familiarise students with a range of contemporary global issues that influence how businesses operate, and how management both accounts for the stewardship of the business, and, assesses the management of organisational performance. This module will involve opportunities for students to gain a deeper understanding of these matters and be able to critically assess the implications these issues have for businesses and performance measurement. The module also aims to broaden students’ skills in assessing organisational performance.
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes
  1. Critically evaluate a range of contemporary global issues in accounting & finance.
  2. Appraise the opportunities and challenges these issues pose to businesses (either generally or specific to the circumstances outlined in a given scenario) in accounting for the stewardship of the business, and, in measuring performance.
  3. Examine and synthesise ways in which businesses (either in general or specific to a set of circumstances outlined in a given scenario) could deal with the opportunities and challenges presented by specific global contemporary issues.
Assessments

This module's usual assessment procedures, outlined below, may be affected by COVID-19 countermeasures. Current students should check Blackboard for up-to-date assessment information.

  • Continuous Assessment (100%)
Module Director
Lecturers / Tutors
The above information outlines module AY518: "Research Project" and is valid from 2020 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.

Required AY5117: Auditing II


Semester 2 | Credits: 10

This module will build on the module Auditing I’ which is a prerequisite to this module. The module will extend students understanding of approaches to auditing addressing complex areas such as ‘Going Concern’ and audit completion obligations and challenges. Further, the nodule will address the preparation of complex and qualified audit reports, and the auditor’s responsibilities to report to relevant bodies other than the organisation’s members especially in cases of fraud. Finally, the module will cover approaches to auditing in IT settings and approaches to sampling in an auditing context.
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes
  1. Display an advanced understanding of the audit environment including the ethical and regulatory framework and the interrelationship with the legal environment. Understand the legal dynamics of professional negligence and duty of care.
  2. Prepare a standard audit report. Be capable of assessing the implications for the audit report of circumstances that may impinge on the opinions expressed in the report and whether and what qualification or other amendment would be appropriate.
  3. Demonstrate an understanding of the auditor’s responsibilities in assessing going concern, for fraud detection and for the consideration of laws and regulations relevant to the auditee.
  4. Understand the role of sampling in the audit process and the appropriateness of differing sampling techniques.
  5. Formulate appropriate responses to the challenge of auditing in complex IT environments.
  6. Appreciate contemporary issues in the auditing profession and environment and their implications.
Assessments

This module's usual assessment procedures, outlined below, may be affected by COVID-19 countermeasures. Current students should check Blackboard for up-to-date assessment information.

  • Written Assessment (80%)
  • Continuous Assessment (20%)
Module Director
Lecturers / Tutors
The above information outlines module AY5117: "Auditing II" and is valid from 2022 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.

Required AY5105: Corporate Finance


Semester 2 | Credits: 5

The objectives of this module are to facilitate students in developing and applying a comprehensive understanding of the role of corporate finance in strategic financial decision-making contexts in particular in financing and valuation decisions giving detailed consideration to risk. The module focuses on decision-making under conditions of uncertainty and requires consideration of theoretical and real world conditions in financial decision-making in a strategic context. The module explores the role of finance theory and corporate finance tools and techniques in supporting the strategic investment, financing and related decision-making processes in an organisation.
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes
  1. Analyse current and proposed, structured and unstructured investment, financing and risk management situations in a strategic context and offer corporate financial decision recommendations to senior management teams to facilitate the realisation of corporate strategic goals.
  2. Understand and apply a range of corporate finance tools and techniques to assist in making valuation, financial and strategic decisions under conditions of uncertainty
  3. Critically evaluate the usefulness, relevance and limitations of corporate finance theory in supporting corporate investment, valuation, risk management and financing decision-making.
  4. Apply, and critically evaluate the relevance of financial and non-financial information in a range of corporate finance decision-making situations.
Assessments

This module's usual assessment procedures, outlined below, may be affected by COVID-19 countermeasures. Current students should check Blackboard for up-to-date assessment information.

  • Written Assessment (80%)
  • Continuous Assessment (20%)
Module Director
Lecturers / Tutors
The above information outlines module AY5105: "Corporate Finance" and is valid from 2021 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.

Required AY5101: Taxation II


Semester 2 | Credits: 5

The objective of this course is to provide an insight into and appreciation of the impact of taxation on business and business decisions. It will assist students to understand and apply the legislation, procedure and practices governing Corporation Tax and Capital Acquisitions Tax. It will also build on the content covered in Taxation I (AY5100) to aid students in assessing and evaluating tax policy.
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes
  1. Be able to apply the general principles of corporation tax to prepare a computation and identify the timing and manner of payments required.
  2. Understand the rules relating to corporation tax loss relief and how to calculate and utilise losses
  3. Be able to identify groups for tax purposes and manage group reliefs including loss and payments relief.
  4. Understand the implications of close company rules and their consequences for both the company and for participators/directors.
  5. Understand how foreign taxes may be relieved for companies and be able to advise on the taxation of non-resident companies.
  6. Be able to apply the general principles of capital acquisitions tax to prepare a computation and identify the timing and manner of payments required in relation to gifts and inheritances.
  7. Understand the territorial scope of capital acquisitions tax and identify the circumstances in which gifts and inheritances will be taxable.
  8. Understand the circumstances in which various reliefs and exemptions apply and in particular to be able to apply the rules and reliefs relating to agricultural and business property.
  9. Understand and apply the general principles of stamp duty to prepare a computation and identify the timing and manner of payments required.
  10. Understand the circumstances in which various stamp duty reliefs and exemptions apply and be able to apply the rules in particular in relation to associated parties and the transfer of a business.
  11. Understand how Capital Gains Tax interacts with Capital Acquisitions Tax
  12. Communicate tax related material in a concise, professional manner and have an understanding of some challenges of working on tax matters as part of a team
Assessments

This module's usual assessment procedures, outlined below, may be affected by COVID-19 countermeasures. Current students should check Blackboard for up-to-date assessment information.

  • Written Assessment (85%)
  • Continuous Assessment (15%)
Module Director
Lecturers / Tutors
The above information outlines module AY5101: "Taxation II" and is valid from 2020 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.

Required AY5102: Management Control Systems


Semester 2 | Credits: 5

To address the grand challenge of sustainable global development and innovation, management need effective decision-making processes and suitable tools to measure the multiple dimensions of performance. Topics covered in this course include the types of management control practices adopted by organisations, key issues in performance measurement incorporating triple bottom line outcomes, the role of financial and nonfinancial data in decision-making processes, divisional performance evaluation and transfer pricing mechanisms.
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes
  1. Apply management accounting techniques to prepare information for decision making.
  2. Critically analyse the usefulness of financial and non-financial information for management decision making.
  3. Appraise the tools available for measuring and managing the multiple dimensions of performance that need to be reported to different stakeholder groups.
Assessments

This module's usual assessment procedures, outlined below, may be affected by COVID-19 countermeasures. Current students should check Blackboard for up-to-date assessment information.

  • Written Assessment (80%)
  • Continuous Assessment (20%)
Module Director
Lecturers / Tutors
The above information outlines module AY5102: "Management Control Systems" and is valid from 2022 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.

Required AY5119: Advanced Financial Reporting II


Semester 2 | Credits: 10

The objective of this module is develop students’ conceptual understanding of advanced problems of financial reporting and their ability to apply international financial reporting standards (IFRS) to practical situations. Students will consolidate their ability to prepare complex group financial statements
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes
  1. Discuss the conceptual problems posed by accounting for the IFRS covered on this module
  2. Explain the requirements of IFRS and sections of FRS 102 covered on the module and apply them to practical financial reporting and financial analysis problems
  3. Synthesise the requirements of multiple IFRS in the preparation of complex group financial statements
  4. Critically evaluate the potential for error and misrepresentation of financial statements
  5. Appraise the ethical considerations that are important to international financial reporting
Assessments

This module's usual assessment procedures, outlined below, may be affected by COVID-19 countermeasures. Current students should check Blackboard for up-to-date assessment information.

  • Written Assessment (80%)
  • Continuous Assessment (20%)
Module Director
Lecturers / Tutors
The above information outlines module AY5119: "Advanced Financial Reporting II " and is valid from 2020 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.

Required AY537: Skills for Accounting Research and Practice


Semester 2 | Credits: 5

The objective of this module is to develop students’ skills for a transformed accounting and finance profession. While technical skills remain critical, accountants are increasingly expected to demonstrate robust communication, presentation and analytical skills. This module is designed to address these requirements and thus develop students’ employability skills. Excel is extensively used within the accounting profession, however many users only use a limited range of features. Covering more advanced Excel techniques makes users more productive and efficient enabling manipulation of large complex data sets into useful insights. Advanced Excel skills is a key business proficiency in contemporary organisations, facilitating faster and better decision making.
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes
  1. Analyse complex data sets and present data professionally using Excel.
  2. Present complex data in a visually compelling an insightful manner using Excel.
  3. Analyse data and present insights in a professional format.
  4. Develop and give a professional oral presentation based on complex data sets.
Assessments

This module's usual assessment procedures, outlined below, may be affected by COVID-19 countermeasures. Current students should check Blackboard for up-to-date assessment information.

  • Continuous Assessment (100%)
Module Director
Lecturers / Tutors
The above information outlines module AY537: "Skills for Accounting Research and Practice" and is valid from 2020 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.

Optional MG571: Strategic Management


Semester 1 | Credits: 5


(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes
  1. Demonstrate a mastery of the concepts, techniques and theories of strategic management
  2. Formulate and design strategies, strategic planning systems and strategic implementation activities
  3. Develop an understanding of the complexities of strategic issues in a real world context
  4. Demonstrate evaluative and critical strategic thinking by assessing the strategic profiles of firms at business and industry levels
  5. Apply strategic principles, concepts, theories and frameworks to a wide range of businesses and industry settings
  6. Develop presenation skills, critical analysis, decision-making and working in a team based environment to solve problems in a strategic setting.
Assessments

This module's usual assessment procedures, outlined below, may be affected by COVID-19 countermeasures. Current students should check Blackboard for up-to-date assessment information.

  • Written Assessment (60%)
  • Continuous Assessment (40%)
Module Director
Lecturers / Tutors
The above information outlines module MG571: "Strategic Management" and is valid from 2015 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.

Optional MS5104: Decision Theory & Analysis


Semester 1 | Credits: 5

The objective of this course is to introduce students to the different aspects of decision theory and analysis and specifically how these apply to business.
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes
  1. Critically evaluate the role and types of decision making in enhancing individual and organisational performance.
  2. Evaluate different decision-making methods, models, tools and techniques.
  3. Assess and decide upon the best decision making tools to use in situations of uncertainty and risk.
  4. Appraise the impact of group decision-making techniques to inform leaders during times of uncertainty.
  5. Present data visualisations and dashboards to influence key stakeholder’s decision-making on new opportunities, innovations, and/or potential threats for an organisation.
Assessments

This module's usual assessment procedures, outlined below, may be affected by COVID-19 countermeasures. Current students should check Blackboard for up-to-date assessment information.

  • Written Assessment (70%)
  • Continuous Assessment (30%)
Module Director
Lecturers / Tutors
The above information outlines module MS5104: "Decision Theory & Analysis" and is valid from 2020 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.

Further Education

Exemptions: Graduates of the MAcc are granted full exemption from CAI’s CAP2 examinations, provided they have full exemption from CAI’s CAP1 examination before taking the MAcc.

Why Choose This Course?

Career Opportunities

A wide range of career choices are open to graduates, in particular in the accounting and tax consultancy professions. In fact most participants on the programme are sponsored (and subsequently employed) by major accounting firms, such as KPMG, PricewaterhouseCoopers, Deloitte and EY.

100% Employment

Chartered Accountants Ireland exemptions

This programme has been developed with reference to the Chartered Accountants Ireland (CAI) syllabus. Therefore, significant exemptions from the CAI examinations are available. Graduates of the MAcc are granted full exemption from CAI’s CAP2 examinations, provided that they have full exemption from CAI’s CAP1 examinations before taking the MAcc.

MAcc graduates success in recent professional examinations 

Our graduates consistently achieve very high places in the Final Admitting Examination of Chartered Accountants Ireland and in the final examination of the Irish Tax Institute (AITI). In the recent professional exams, our graduates Aisling Curtin and Sarah Finnegan obtained second and third place respectively in CAI’s Final Admitting Examination and Nora Cosgrove was placed second in the final examinations of the Irish Taxation Institute. 

Summer Schools

The programme  hosts two summer schools which are held after the summer exams, typically in May and June. The topics vary from year to year.  

  • Summer school #1: Analytics in Accounting and Auditing, delivered by KPMG ( 10th - 16th May 2023) This summer school aims to give participants a rich understanding of the use of software and cognitive technologies to analyse audit and accounting data. The summer school demonstrates KPMG tools which were developed to harness the power of technology and bring greater vigour, precision and meaningful insights to the increasing age of data. Students are provided with an opportunity to see how data and analytics are used in a practical setting, bringing meaning, life and understanding into accounting information. 
  • Summer school #2: (Financing Net Zero, delivered by Barry Gavin) (29th May - 2nd June) The objective of this summer school is to enable students to be able to hold their own with professionals working in the sustainability sector by developing a knowledge of the concepts, language, structures, process, risks, challenges and opportunities for corporate sustainability. In particular, students will learn to appreciate the role that finance has in enabling the transition to Net Zero. 

Three Reasons to study the MAcc at University of Galway?  

1. It will enable you to get on the fast track to qualifying as a chartered accountant. 
 
2. In the MAcc we help you develop the interdisciplinary and interpersonal skills you need to succeed in the professional exams and in your professional accounting career. 
 
3. The class size (30 students) is optimal: Small enough that students can receive individual support and mentoring from lecturers, but also big enough that you get to develop the expertise in group working which employers value very highly. 

Who’s Suited to This Course

The MAcc programme could be for you if you hold (or expect to graduate shortly with) at least a 2.1 honours primary degree with a significant specialisation in accounting and expect to have full (or nearly full exemptions) from the CAP1 examinations of CAI. The majority of students on the programme are sponsored by accounting firms who intended to employ them to train as chartered accountants upon graduation from the MAcc.

Learning Outcomes

Transferable Skills Employers Value

Work Placement

Study Abroad

Related Student Organisations

Course Fees

Fees: EU

€10,290 p.a. 2023/24

Fees: Tuition

€10,150 p.a. 2023/24

Fees: Student levy

€140 p.a. 2023/24

Fees: Non EU

€17,590 p.a. 2023/24

 

Postgraduate students in receipt of a SUSI grant – please note an F4 grant is where SUSI will pay €4,000 towards your tuition (2023/24).  You will be liable for the remainder of the total fee.  An F5 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.

Note to non-EU students: learn about the 24-month Stayback Visa here. 

Find out More

Programme Director
Mr John Currie
E: john.currie@universityofgalway.ie

Programme Administrator
Ms Melissa O’Hea
T: +353 91 492 308
E: accounting@universityofgalway.ie

Quick Links

What our Employers Say

Marie

Marie Joyce |   Chief Financial Officer, NTR plc

The finance function is a key driver of analytics and plays a leadership role rather than a supporting role.
Colm

Colm Gorman |   Head of KPMG

Since its inception, KPMG has sponsored students on the Master of Accounting programme in NUI Galway. We are delighted with the results. In its graduates, KPMG looks for rounded individuals with well-developed thinking and interpersonal skills. We really notice these skills in those who have completed the Master of Accounting in NUI Galway. It is the combined focus on technical skills development and personal development that we believe prepares students well for a career in business

What our Students and Graduates Say

Niamh

Niamh Irvine |   Master of Accounting Scholar 2022-23

This Master of Accounting programme offers insightful information on what a trainee accountant does. It gives you the abilities you need to succeed as an accountant when you enter the workforce and you are able to gain full CAP 2 exemptions as a result of taking this course. The modules are both challenging and engaging. In semester three, there is a summer school with KPMG that, I'm told, will be highly beneficial for acquiring the abilities required and sought by potential employers. The J.E. Cairnes Building has excellent facilities, and the resources offered are excellent. The lecturers and teaching staff go above and beyond to assist students with any problems or concerns that may occur. They are always eager and willing to do so. Being awarded the J.E. Cairnes scholarship has greatly reduced the financial strain brought on by the cost of the course. I would highly recommend this course to anyone who is considering it.
Alisha

Alisha Mullin |   Master of Accounting Scholar 2021-22

The Master of Accounting degree at NUI Galway will be incredibly valuable to my future career. The course gave me the opportunity to develop various skills such as research and writing skills from attempting various assignments. As well as this the module “Skills for Accounting Research and Practice” gives students the opportunity to review case studies which I am sure will be of an advantage to me when sitting my FAE’S. The course is taught by a number of brilliant lecturers who have vast amounts of experience in their fields. Each lecturer puts so much time and effort into the preparation and delivery of each module. They provide you with some brilliant real-life examples, drawing on their own experience, making it very easy to understand and apply the content.
John

John Flood |   Master of Accounting Scholar 2021-22

The Master of Accounting at NUI Galway has facilitated a seamless transition into the accounting workplace, particularly after obtaining the CAP 2 exemptions for the professional exams. The course is very much centred around practical skills such as group work, presentations, debates etc, based on relevant real-world problems, as well as having an emphasis on the technical and academic skills which are equally structured well. Having availed of an entire module dedicated to accounting analytical skills as well as an optional 2-week data and analytics summer school run by KPMG, I was very well equipped on the highly demanded skills that employers desire. There are also valuable workshops conducted in semester 2 which offered great insight and preparation for the FAE professional exams. Given the small class size, the lectures are all so approachable and understanding, and really go above and beyond for their class. It was also a pleasure to study alongside my equally ambitious and hardworking classmates, where there’s a real sense of solidarity and strong commitment to work competently.
Sarah

Sarah Gavin |   Master of Accounting Scholar 2020-21

In completing the masters in accounting I can say that it successfully prepares you for the working world as a trainee accountant. The course has provided us with exemptions for the CAP 2 exams. As well as the academic modules, the course has given me the practical skills that is needed for completing the daily tasks in an accountant’s role. It has also provided us with excellent workshops to help us prepare for the FAE’s which I will have to sit to become a chartered accountant. The teaching staff at NUIG are incredibly supportive, they have also made themselves available to us if we have queries and questions about career paths and opportunities. We have also been given great opportunities to give our input into the structure of the course. Being awarded a scholarship from NUIG has enabled me to focus solely on my academics and achieve the best results possible in my exams without financial worry.
Ellen

Ellen Grant |   Master of Accounting Scholar 2020-21

I would absolutely recommend studying the Master of Accounting programme at NUI Galway. The programme is based on the CAP2 syllabus and provides a wide range of exemptions. The coursework is very much aligned to equip students with the skills they will need for their future careers with a specific emphasis on group work and an entire module dedicated to practical skills in Semester 2. This year has been a completely different experience due to the move to virtual learning. However, the lecturers and coordinators have done absolutely everything to facilitate a seamless transition. The teaching staff have been nothing but supportive and have created an open and safe environment for student contributions and feedback. The small class size also means there is a real opportunity to get to know almost everyone, which is something you don’t necessarily get with every course. Finally, it must be said that Galway city is an amazing location to study from. The weather may be unpredictable at times however, it more than makes up for it on the good days.
Emma

Emma Cummins |   Master of Accouting Scholar 2020-21

On completing a level eight Bachelors of Commerce (Accounting) degree in NUIG, I decided to apply for a place in the Master of Accounting programme. Upon securing a place, I applied for a scholarship having met the eligible criteria of achieving a H1. The scholarship process was straightforward which involved filling out a form and writing a short personal statement. The scholarship helped partly finance my studies. The masters cover a range of modules including tax, audit, financial reporting and finance. On completing the masters CAP2 exemptions will apply. The skills for accounting module provide an insight on case studies in the FAEs which will be beneficial in the near future.
Hanhui

Hanhui Wang |   Senior Auditor in Banking Sector

Courses arranged in this programme are essential and helpful for my future career in accountancy. I like that this study year is a challenge for me. I believe the year will help me develop my professional knowledge and skills and will greatly improve my job prospects. All staff teaching on this programme have excellent professional knowledge and teaching skills. They are nice, enthusiastic and helpful to me. I enjoy being here and am having a really good time in Galway. I regard Galway as my second hometown.
Zhang

Zhang Xiaolin |   M.Acc graduate 2016

The subjects in this Master of Accounting programme are very appropriate for your future career. You get to develop and practice your presentation and research skills through various assignments. From the programme, you will not only acquire knowledge but you will also develop an ability to solve real world problems. There is a good mix of international and national students in the class. The group work on various courses allowed me to experience working on problems with students from different cultural backgrounds. Staff are all very professional and friendly. The staff know that as an international student you live far away from your family and friends and they try to help and encourage you.
Alphonsa

Alphonsa Cherukodath |   M.Acc graduate 2016

This programme has helped me to gain practical knowledge through problem solving in the various accounting and finance modules. It has made me more professionally competent as a result of the presentations, case study analysis and debates that are all part of the programme. The teaching faculty of the programme are very professional and all have industry experience which helps me to understand the topics more easily. Galway is a diversified city with very good infrastructural facilities and people are very friendly. The weather in the city was a completely new experience, but I have adjusted!"
Ciarán

Ciarán O’Donnell |   Associate, Ernst & Young

“I would certainly recommend studying the Master of Accounting degree at NUI Galway. My experience and time at Galway was without a doubt a positive and very enjoyable one. The facilities at the J.E Cairnes Business School are top class and are entirely conducive to an effective study environment. The programme lecturers are very much approachable, friendly, and hardworking. Furthermore the course offers a great platform for developing those skills necessary in progressing in the workplace and also with the professional exams. Lastly it needs to be mentioned that Galway City itself is a fantastic location to study in and the contacts you develop during the program are, in my opinion, invaluable.”

AACSB - Global Accreditation

AACSB - Global Business Accreditation 2

AACSB is the longest-serving global accrediting body for business schools, and the largest business education network connecting students, educators, and businesses worldwide

Learn More >‌

Recognised By:

Chartered-Accountants-IrelandR

News

NUI Galway announces Analytics Summer School in conjunction with KPMG

 KPMG Led Analytics Summer School

Irish Accountancy Awards 2019

Finalist of Irish Accountancy Awards 2019Irish Accountancy Awards 2019

Downloads

  • Business Postgraduate Programmes 2023

    Business Postgraduate Programmes 2023 PDF (4.7 MB)

  • Postgraduate Prospectus 2023

    Postgraduate Prospectus 2023 PDF (20.6MB)

  • Professional Accounting Body Exemptions

    Professional Accounting Body Exemptions PDF (8 KB)