Who is this course for?  

The MSc in Business and Hospitality is tailored for individuals from a wide range of academic and professional backgrounds who aspire to pursue careers in the business and hospitality industries. Whether you are a recent graduate seeking to develop specialized knowledge, a seasoned professional aiming to enhance your career prospects, or someone exploring a new path within the hospitality sector, this programme equips you with the essential skills and expertise to achieve your goals. 

This course welcomes applicants with a second-class honours degree or higher. Having relevant work experience is preferable but not necessary.  

This programme features a curriculum that focuses on practical, real-world applications, covering key areas such as project management, international human resource management, and strategy and innovation. It is specifically designed for individuals aiming to thrive in the dynamic fields of business and hospitality. 

What will I study?  

The full-time programme consists of three semesters. Semesters 1 and 2 are delivered through in-class instruction and focus on core modules, while Semester 3 offers elective options, including research or an internship. Part-time students will complete half of these modules each academic year. 

The course may be taken as a full-time degree over a twelve-month period (September to August) OR as a Part-Time Degree taken over a twenty-four-month period. The year is divided into two teaching semesters (September to December and January to April). The summer period (Year 2 in the Part-Time programme) will be used to complete a 3-month paid internship OR undertake a research thesis OR participate in a Summer School, alongside a business consultancy project.  

Core modules: 

• Business Analytics Fundamentals
• Performance and Revenue Management
• Global Business and International Human Resource Management
• Information Technology for Hospitality
• Project Management
• Hotel Asset Management
• Strategy and Innovation for Business
• Intercultural Communication for Business 

Optional Modules may include: 

• Internship
• Research Thesis
• Summer School & Business Consultancy Project

Curriculum Information

 Work Experience: Gain hands-on experience, industry connections, and a competitive edge by opting to complete a 3-month paid internship with one of our prestigious partner hotel groups. 

• Range of modules: Study a range of modules such as international human resource management, information technology for business, and hotel asset management.
• Industry connections:  Benefit from valuable insights and real-world perspectives shared by the numerous guest speakers regularly invited to campus.
• Enhance analytical skills: Learn how to interpret and analyse data in order to make smarter decisions and drive real impact.
• Improve intercultural communication skills: Learn how to collaborate effectively with people from diverse backgrounds - an essential asset for today’s international workplace.

With a focus on real-world application, industry-relevant modules, and opportunities for internships and research, this degree prepares you for a wide range of dynamic careers in business and hospitality.  

Gain a competitive edge with industry-focused modules like Strategy and Innovation for Business and Data Analytics Fundamentals. These courses equip you with the high-demand skills employers seek in today’s data-driven business world. 

Graduates have found employment in a range of business and hospitality industries including hotels, travel agencies, and retail.  

One of the electives for Semester 3 is a 3-month internship.  

In Semester 3, students may opt for a 3-month paid internship, commencing on May 1st. This pathway offers a unique opportunity to gain real-world experience with leading hospitality organisations in Ireland and worldwide if possible. 

Shannon College has long-standing partnerships with over 100 prestigious hotels across more than 16 countries, including top-tier brands. These placements give students the chance to apply their academic learning in dynamic, fast-paced hospitality environments developing practical skills, professional networks, and a strong foundation for global careers. 

Access to internship opportunities is competitive and subject to a screening and interview process managed by Shannon’s Placement Office. Selection is also influenced by individual eligibility to work legally in specific countries, and students are supported in understanding their visa or work permit options during the placement planning process. 

This carefully structured internship enhances employability, fosters leadership, and builds confidence ensuring that graduates from the University of Galway leave Shannon College ready to thrive in the international hospitality industry. 

Accrediting Body 

While completing the module, Performance and Revenue Management, students will be given the opportunity to sit an exam to receive a Certification in Hotel Industry Analytics (CHIA). 

The CHIA certification is a powerful credential for general managers, revenue managers, sales leaders, and corporate professionals. It is widely recognised by many organisations including AH&LA, HFTP, ICHRIE, IoH and PATA.   

• Dr Sean T. Ruane
• Dr Maria Palma-Fahey
• Dr Finian O’Driscoll
• Adrian Sylver
• Tracy Hegarty
• Celine Ryan
• Danielle Martin
• Sarah Ryan
• David O’Donovan 

Group projects and collaborative activities will enhance your teamwork and communication skills, while individual assignments and the final dissertation will help you develop independence and critical thinking.  

Throughout the programme, you will have access to cutting-edge resources, including industry-standard software and real-world datasets, to support your learning and professional growth.

How Will I Be Assessed? 

Throughout the programme, your progress is assessed through various coursework and exams, including reports, essays, presentations, and in-class assessments. 

Continuous Assessment - Regular coursework, including essays, presentations, in-class tests, portfolios and research. 

New Scholarships have been announced for 2026  

Shannon College Hospitality Excellence Scholarship  

This international student scholarship will be awarded to the postgraduate students who achieve excellent academic results and shows their drive and determination to succeed in the hospitality industry. 

Scholarships up to 50% 

Visit Scholarships page to learn more 

At Shannon College of Hotel Management, research underpins our commitment to advancing knowledge and best practice in the global hospitality and business sectors. Our faculty and postgraduate students engage in applied and industry-relevant research that explores innovation, sustainability, leadership, and customer experience within hospitality management. 

As part of the MSc in Business and Hospitality, students have the opportunity to develop their research skills during Semester 3, where they may choose the Business and Hospitality Research option. This pathway allows students to undertake a focused research project, applying academic frameworks to real-world industry challenges. Supported by expert supervision, students gain valuable experience in critical analysis, data interpretation, and evidence-based decision-making - skills that enhance both professional practice and career progression. 

Through this research-led approach, Shannon College continues to contribute to the evolving body of knowledge that shapes the future of international hospitality management. 

Course queries: 
loraine.kavanagh@universityofgalway.ie  

sarah.omahony@universityofgalway.ie 

Programme Director(s):  

Loraine Kavanagh 
Lecturer (above the bar)  
Shannon College of Hotel Management 
E: loraine.kavanagh@universityofgalway.ie 
T: 091 497238 

Q: Where will my classes take place?
A: All modules at taught on the Shannon College Campus located at Shannon International Airport, Shannon. Co Clare.  

Q: How can I pay my fees? 
A: Please visit the fees section of the website to learn more about fee payments.  

Q: Are there any scholarships available for this course?
A: Yes, we have exciting new scholarships available for 2026. Take a look at our Scholarships Page to learn more.

Q. Can I study online? 
A: This Masters programme is not available online, but we do have some excellent Continue Professional Development Programmes that are available online- Take a look at our CPD page to learn more.

University of Galway recognises that knowledge and skills can be acquired from a range of learning experiences. This is in line with the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) goals which aim to recognise all learning achievements by supporting the development of alternative pathways to qualifications (or awards) and by facilitating the recognition of prior learning (RPL). 

This programme builds on students’ existing experience while gaining the advanced skills and knowledge needed to lead and innovate in today’s businesses and hospitality industry. 
 
Candidates who have completed professional training (certified &/or in-house) while gaining extensive experience in the areas of business and hospitality are eligible for consideration. 

• Graduates of the MSc in Business and Hospitality will be able to:
• Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of core business disciplines, including strategy, finance, marketing, and leadership, within both hospitality and wider organisational contexts. 
• Evaluate complex business and management challenges, and formulate effective, evidence-based solutions to drive sustainable organisational success. 
• Apply advanced analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills across diverse business environments. 
• Retrieve, interpret, and synthesise a range of data and research sources to support informed, strategic decision-making. 
• Lead and collaborate effectively in multicultural and interdisciplinary teams, demonstrating strong communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills. 
• Plan, manage, and deliver substantial independent and team-based projects with professionalism and accountability. 
• Adapt and innovate in response to emerging business trends, technological developments, and global market dynamics. 
• Reflect critically on personal and professional development, exhibiting the capacity for lifelong learning, self-assessment, and career progression across a wide range of business and leadership roles. 

Minimum Entry Requirements

Candidates must hold at least a Second-Class Honours Level 8 primary degree with some relevant work experience. 

Academic entry requirements standardised per country are available here.  

English Language Entry Requirements

For applicants whose first language is not English, an English language proficiency of IELTS score of 6.5 is required (with no band less than 5.5) or equivalent.  

More information on English language test equivalency is available here.  

Supporting Documents 

You will be required to provide supporting documentation as part of your application. You can check here what supporting documents are required for this course.  

You can apply online to the University of Galway application portal here.  

Please review the entry requirements set out in the section above.  

You will be required to upload supporting documentation to your application electronically. See the section above on entry requirements for further information on the supporting documentation required for this course.  

Closing Dates 

For this programme, there is no specific closing date for receipt of applications. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and course quotes will be reviewed continuously throughout the application cycle.  

Notes 

• You will need an active email account to use the website and you'll be guided through the system, step by step, until you complete the online form.
• Browse the FAQ's section for further guidance.  

Fees for Academic Year 2026/27

For 26/27 entrants, where the course duration is greater than 1 year, there is an inflationary increase approved of 1.8% per annum for continuing years fees.

Postgraduate students in receipt of a SUSI grant – please note an F4 grant is where SUSI will pay €4,500 towards your tuition (2026/27).  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.

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

Workbook 
You may be asked to purchase a workbook for Information Technology for Business at a cost of €20 approx.

Certification in Hotel Industry Analytics 
This exam currently costs $90 (US). Please note that this can change due to currency values.

Shannon College Hospitality Excellence Scholarship  

This scholarship will be awarded to the postgraduate students who achieve excellent academic results and shows their drive and determination to succeed in the hospitality industry. 

Scholarships up to 50% 

For more details visit

Application Process 

Students applying for full time postgraduate programmes from outside of the European Union (EU), You can apply online to the University of Galway application portal here.  

Our application portal opens on the 1st October each year for entry the following September.   

Further Information 

Please visit the postgraduate admissions webpage for further information on closing dates, documentation requirements, application fees and the application process.