This two-semester International Foundation Programme is designed to help you build your English language ability, develop academic skills, and gain subject knowledge aligned with your future degree. 

You can choose from four tailored routes, depending on your English level, academic background, and future goals. 
 
Each route is designed to suit different starting points and career goals. The English Route is ideal if you want to improve your English while gaining a strong introduction to business. The Non-English Route is for students who already have a good level of English and want to focus more on academic, research, and business skills. The Accounting Route with English combines English development with specialised preparation for accounting and finance degrees. The Arts Route is suited to students interested in humanities and social sciences, offering a pathway into a wide range of arts-related degree programmes. 

Route	Semester 1	Semester 2
English Route	English for Life  English for Specific Purpose  Academic English 1  Introduction to Business & Management  Introduction to Accounting  Intercultural Communication	English for Life  English for Specific Purpose  Academic English 2  Economics  Personal Development  Introduction to Business Mathematics
Non-English Route	Introduction to Business Skills  Introduction to Research  Irish Culture  Introduction to Business & Management  Introduction to Accounting  Intercultural Communication	Academic English 2  Applied Project  Economics  Personal Development  Introduction to Business Mathematics
Accounting Route (with English)	English for Life  English for Specific Purpose  Academic English 1  Introduction to Management Accounting  Introduction to Business & Management  Intercultural Communication	English for Life  English for Specific Purpose  Academic English 2  Economics  Financial Accounting  Introduction to Business Mathematics
Arts / Humanities  Route	English for Life  English for Specific Purpose  Academic English 1  Introduction to Social Science  Introduction to Humanities  Intercultural Communication	English for Life  English for Specific Purpose  Academic English 2  Introduction to Social Science  Personal Development  Introduction to Humanities

Please see 'What will I study', above.

• Four tailored study routes to match your academic goals  

• Pathway to degree programmes with a conditional offer from the start  

• Strong focus on English and academic skills development  

• Specialist pathways in Business, Accounting, and Arts & Humanities  

• Integrated personal development and communication skills  

• Small class sizes with personalised support 

• Direct access to University of Galway facilities and student life  

• Opportunities to connect with future lecturers during your studies  

• Applied learning through projects and practical assessments  

• Cultural experiences and Irish immersion beyond the classroom  

• Supportive, multicultural learning environment  

• Smooth transition into undergraduate study

The International Foundation Programme at Shannon College is designed to prepare you for progression into undergraduate study and future career success. By building strong English proficiency, academic knowledge, and practical skills, the programme equips you with the confidence to thrive at university and beyond. 

Depending on your chosen route, you can progress to degrees in business, accounting, finance, humanities, or social sciences, opening doors to a wide range of global career opportunities. Graduates go on to careers in areas such as business management, marketing, finance, education, public service, and international organisations after they complete their degree. 

With a strong academic foundation, intercultural awareness, and professional skills, you will be well prepared to succeed in today’s competitive global workplace. 

Take a look at your chosen degree course page to explore the specific career opportunities available after graduation. 

As part of the International Foundation Programme, you will experience studying in Ireland as an international student while preparing for your degree at the University of Galway. Based at Shannon College, you will enjoy a welcoming, multicultural environment and the opportunity to immerse yourself in Irish culture. 

Throughout the programme, you will take part in cultural activities and excursions, helping you explore Ireland, build friendships, and develop global awareness. Studying abroad not only enhances your academic journey but also builds independence, confidence, and valuable life experience that will support your future studies and career. 

The International Foundation Business Programme at Shannon College is a Level 6 accredited qualification on Ireland’s National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ). The qualification is awarded by the University of Galway, which ensures high academic standards and makes the transition to your undergraduate degree at the University of Galway smooth and straightforward, as students are already familiar with university expectations, systems, and supports. 

Global Recognition
The University of Galway is recognised internationally for its excellence in teaching and research, consistently ranking among the top universities in Ireland and global.

• Pamela Likely  

• David O’ Donovan 

 

• Interactive Classes: Small group activities, discussions, and presentations keep learning dynamic and engaging. 

• Project-Based Learning: Apply your skills to real-world tasks, research projects, and case studies. 

• Practical Skills Development: From teamwork and communication to business simulations, financial exercises, and humanities-based analysis, you will develop skills you can use right away. 

• Personalised Support: Teachers provide guidance and feedback tailored to your learning style and progress. 

Assessment Methods 

Across all routes, assessment is designed to support your learning and progression: 

• Written Assignments & Essays: Demonstrate understanding, critical thinking, and research skills. 

• Presentations: Build confidence in communicating ideas clearly to your peers and teachers. 

• Projects & Case Studies: Apply knowledge to solve practical problems in business, research, accounting, or humanities contexts. 

• Quizzes & Exams: Test knowledge of core concepts in English, mathematics, accounting, economics, and social sciences. 

• Continuous Assessment: Participation, teamwork, and reflective tasks help track your progress throughout the programme. 

Route Assessment Focus 

• English Route: Focus on developing English communication and academic skills through presentations, essays, and language tasks, alongside practical business exercises. 

• Non-English Route: Emphasis on applied learning, including research projects, academic writing, and problem-solving in business, economics, and mathematics. 

• Accounting Route with English: Combines English development with accounting and business assessments, including financial exercises, case studies, exams, and presentations. 

• Arts Route: Focus on critical thinking, academic writing, and analysis within social sciences and humanities, supported by presentations, essays, and project-based work. 

Why Our Approach Works 

• Encourages active participation and confidence in learning 

• Combines practical experience with academic knowledge 

• Supports growth in communication, teamwork, and problem-solving 

• Prepares you for future study and career paths with a strong academic foundation 

Celebrating 75 Years

In 2026, we celebrate 75 years of hospitality  education. Founded in 1951 by Dr Brendan O’Regan, Shannon College of Hotel Management has grown from an ambitious idea in the Shannon region to become a world-renowned school as part of University of Galway which has a distinctive place in Irish and global hospitality education.

We hosted an event on May 13th 2026 to mark this milestone and welcomed over 150 alumni, partners and friends back to Shannon College. We were especially glad to welcome Dr Brendan O’Regan’s family as well as former staff members. Our students who have finished college for the year volunteered to come back and help out on this very special occasion which made it extra special.

The event was centered around the launch of a new ambitious vision for the future of Shannon College, including an outline of plans for a new purpose-built, state-of-the-art learning building and the launch of a new undergraduate degree – Bachelor of Business Studies (BBS) in Global Luxury and Experience Management.

Read all about both of these exciting developments in this brochure - Shannon-75th-Anniversary-Booklet.pdf

As part of our celebrations, we hosted 2 panels. The first panel was titled ‘Down Memory Lane‘ and included graduates and a current student. Daniel McLoughlin (Class of 2012), Kate O’Connell (1980) and current Year 3 student Erin Brady. It was moderated by Tracy Hegarty (Class of 1990, Deputy Head of Shannon College) and was a great conversation of chatting about their different experiences as students – so much has changed but the core remains the same. Lots of laughter and the audience certainly got a feel for life as a SCHM student from 1980 to 2026!

The celebrations then moved into the Forte Auditorium where Head of Shannon College. Adrian Sylver welcomed all attendees and opened the session. The President of University of Galway, Professor David Burn, then spoke and shared the vision for the future of Shannon College, including an outline of plans for a new purpose-built, state-of-the-art learning building. He also launched of a new undergraduate degree – Bachelor of Business Studies (BBS) in Global Luxury and Experience Management.

Following his exciting speech, we welcomed a Panel of Alumni – all working in the luxury sector. Nicky Logue (1995), Christine Murphy (1998) and Ruth Scanlan (2001). Andrew Langford (2002 and Head of Placement Studies) moderated the session and all 3 spoke about their careers, the impact Shannon College has had (and continues to have) and their endorsement of the new degree just launched.

The session was closed by Professor Alma McCarthy, Executive Dean of the College of Business Public Policy and Law in the University of Galway and all attendees then made their way to the atrium where the students were serving delicious light bites and bubbles.

Former Head of Shannon College Dr Phillip J. Smyth proposed a toast to mark the occasion and the oldest graduate attending – Liam Silke (Class of 1964) cut the cake along with 2 Year 4 students – Hannah O’Flanagan and Laura Shanahan.

It is an incredibly exciting time for Shannon College of Hotel Management, and we are so grateful to everyone who joined us on the day to celebrate both our legacy and the beginning of an even brighter future.
A special thank you to our students who volunteered their time and energy to help prepare and deliver the event. Our students are the true reflection of why Shannon graduates continue to succeed across the world.
Thank you also to our dedicated staff for your enthusiasm and commitment, and finally, to all our guests who travelled near and far to celebrate this milestone with us.
Here’s to the next chapter. 

For course enquiries, please contact a member of our Marketing Team.  

Sarah O’Mahony 
Marketing Manager  
E. sarah.omahony@universityofgalway.ie  
T:00353 91 497 211 

Emma Daly  
School Liaison Officer 
E. edaly@universityofgalway.ie  
T:00353 91 497 216 

Joan Markham  
Admissions Officer  
E. joan.markham@universityofgalway.ie      
T:00353 91 497 212  

What are the routes available, and how do I choose? 

• English Route – Ideal if you want to improve your English while learning business and intercultural skills. 

• Non-English Route – Best if you already have strong English and want to focus on business, research, and academic modules. 

• Accounting with English Route – Perfect if you want to combine English improvement with accounting and finance skills. 

• Arts Route – Suited to students interested in humanities and social sciences, with a focus on critical thinking and academic development. 

Tip: Choose the route that matches your English level and your future study or career goals. 

 What will I study in Semester 1 & 2?

• English Route: English for Life, English for Specific Purpose, Academic English, Business & Management, Accounting, Intercultural Communication, Economics, Personal Development, Maths. 

• Non-English Route: Business & Management, Business Skills, Research, Intercultural Communication, Irish Culture, Accounting, Applied Project, Economics, Personal Development, Maths. 

• Accounting with English Route: English for Life, English for Specific Purpose, Academic English, Management & Financial Accounting, Intercultural Communication, Economics, Maths. 

• Arts Route: English for Life, English for Specific Purpose, Academic English, Introduction to Social Science, Introduction to Humanities, Intercultural Communication, Personal Development. 

Tip: Each route gradually builds your skills in English, academic study, and your chosen subject area. 

 How will I be taught?

• Small, interactive classes 

• Group discussions, projects, and presentations 

• Practical exercises in business, accounting, and humanities 

• Personalised guidance and support from experienced teachers 

• Modules that connect learning with real-life experiences 

 How will I be assessed?

• Written assignments and essays 

• Presentations and group projects 

• Quizzes, exams, and case studies 

• Continuous assessment including teamwork and participation 

Assessments are designed to support your learning, not just test it. 

Will this course help me get ready for university or a career?

Yes! All routes are designed to give you: 

• Strong English and communication skills 

• Academic skills for study success 

• Practical, transferable skills in business, accounting, or humanities 

• Confidence to progress to your degree programme 

 Can I make friends and experience Irish culture while studying?

Absolutely! 

• Study in a multicultural classroom with students from around the world 

• Modules like Irish Culture and Intercultural Communication build global awareness 

• Take part in cultural activities and excursions across Ireland 

 What support is available if I need help?

• Friendly teachers offering one-to-one guidance 

• Extra support in English, Maths, and academic skills 

• Help with research, writing, and projects 

• Advice on progression to degree programmes and careers 

• Personal development support for confidence, teamwork, and leadership 

An International Foundation Programme (IFP) is a preparatory course designed for international students who do not yet meet the academic, English language, or subject-specific entry requirements for direct admission to an undergraduate degree in Ireland. 

In summary: An International Foundation Programme acts as a pathway to degree studies in Ireland, helping international students transition smoothly into undergraduate education and meet university entry requirements. 

Academic : Satisfactory Highschool results.

English Language requirement : IELSTS : 5.0 or equivalent with no band less than 4.5  

Step 1:
To begin, please submit your application for the International Foundation Programme through the University of Galway online applications system here. 

You will find this programme listed under:  

Academic Level : Bachelors 
College / Interest Type : Shannon College of Hotel Management  
 
All application details and supporting documents should be uploaded directly to the online applications system. The system will guide you through each stage of the application process. Once your Foundation application has been submitted, you can then apply for your degree programme for the following academic year using the application fee waiver code provided. 

Step 2: Apply for Your Degree Programme 

Following successful completion of the application for the International Foundation Programme, you can apply for your chosen degree programme through the same online applications system. 

Using your existing account, submit an application for the undergraduate degree programme you intend to progress to following the Foundation Programme. All application details and supporting documents should be uploaded directly to the online applications system. The application fee waiver code provided after your Foundation Programme application should be used when submitting your degree application. 

The following degree programmes are available as progression options from the International Foundation Programme: 

Shannon College of Hotel Management 

• Bachelor of Business Studies in International Hotel Management 

• Bachelor of Commerce in International Hotel Management 

• Bachelor of Business Studies in Global Luxury & Experience Management (New) 

J.E. Cairnes School of Business & Economics 

• Bachelor of Commerce 

• Bachelor of Commerce (Global Experience) 

• Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting) 

• Bachelor of Science (Business Information Systems) 

School of Law 

• Law (BCL) 

• Law (BCL) and Business 

• Law (BCL) and Human Rights 

• Law (BCL), Criminology and Criminal Justice 

College of Arts, Social Sciences & Celtic Studies 

• Bachelor of Arts (Joint Honours) 

• Bachelor of Arts (Child, Youth and Family: Policy and Practice) 

• Bachelor of Arts (Drama, Theatre, and Performance Studies) 

• Bachelor of Arts (English and Creative Writing) 

• Bachelor of Arts (Film & Digital Media) 

• Bachelor of Arts (Global Experience) 

• Bachelor of Arts (Global Languages) 

• Bachelor of Arts (Global Media) 

• Bachelor of Arts (History) 

• Bachelor of Arts (Journalism) 

• Bachelor of Arts (Music) 

• Bachelor of Arts Children’s Studies 

• Bachelor of Arts with Human Rights 

• Bachelor of Science (Psychology) 

• Bachelor of Science (Social Science) 

• Bachelor of Science (Geography and Geosystems) 

• Government (Politics, Economics and Law) 

• Bachelor of Arts (Cumarsáid agus Gaeilge) 

• Bachelor of Arts (Gaeilge agus Léann an Aistriúcháin) 

Please note that progression to a degree programme is subject to successful completion of the International Foundation Programme and the achievement of any programme-specific progression requirements. 

Fees for Academic Year 2027/28

Course Type	Year	EU Tuition	Student Contribution	Non-EU Tuition	Levy	Total Fee	Total EU Fee	Total Non-EU Fee
UG Cert	1	€-	€-	€14,100	€150	€150	€150	€14,250

Programme Fee 
The tuition fee for the International Foundation Programme is €13,700. 

Uniform 
Students enrolled on the International Foundation Programme are required to wear the College uniform for classes. The cost of the uniform for the 2026 academic year was €143. Please note that this fee is subject to change for future intakes. 

While scholarships are not available for the Foundation Programme, students can explore a wide range of scholarship opportunities at the degree level within the University of Galway. Each year, the University offers an extensive selection of scholarships across its undergraduate programmes, recognising academic excellence and providing valuable financial support. 

English Language requirement : IELSTS : 5.0 or equivalent with no band less than 4.5 

Following successful completion of the Foundation Programme at Shannon College, you can progress directly to a wide range of undergraduate degree programmes at the University of Galway. 

Whether your ambition lies in hospitality and luxury management, business and economics, law, or the arts and social sciences, there is a pathway to match your goals.  

With this broad range of options, the Foundation Programme opens the door to a flexible and rewarding academic journey, helping you shape a future aligned with your interests and career ambitions.