The BSc in Business Information Systems is a dynamic four-year degree that blends business knowledge with cutting-edge technology skills. It equips students with the technical, analytical, and managerial skills required to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital economy.

Year 1
First year provides a foundation in business, computing, and digital systems. You will explore key areas such as economics, accounting, management and programming, while being introduced to systems design and cybersecurity. Sample modules include:
• Principles of Microeconomics
• Introduction to Financial Accounting
• Business Information Systems
• Business Application Development
• Systems Design
• Cybersecurity Fundamentals

Year 2
Second year focuses on applying technology to solve real business problems. You’ll work on team-based projects and begin tailoring your learning through optional modules in areas like sustainability and media design. Sample modules include:
• Contemporary Project Management
• Web & Interactive Media Design
• Database Technologies
• Introduction to Sustainability
• Decision Modelling & Analytics

Year 3
In third year, students gain valuable real-world experience.
• Semester 1: Study abroad at a global partner university or, in some cases, complete an international work placement.
• Semester 2: Complete a paid work placement (3–8 months), secured through a competitive process and supported by our strong industry links.

Year 4
Final year prepares you for graduate employment or further study. You’ll explore emerging themes like UX design and the future of technology in work and society, while completing a major capstone project. Optional modules allow you to specialise in areas such as entrepreneurship or global business. Sample modules include:
• Business Intelligence & Analytics
• User Experience Design
• The Future of Technology in Work and Society
• Lean Principles for the IS Professional
• Final Year Project

Throughout the programme, students engage in individual and team-based project work, benefit from industry guest lectures, and gain access to enterprise software through our SAP and Microsoft University Alliance memberships. Our Industry Advisory Board ensures that course content remains aligned with current and future business needs.

Curriculum Information

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

• Paid work placement with global employers such as SAP, Dell, EY, and OnePageCRM.
• Study abroad at leading international universities in the US, France, Italy, Finland, and more.
• Industry-informed curriculum co-designed with leaders via our Industry Advisory Board, ensuring your learning stays career-relevant and future-focused.
• Member institution of the Amazon Web Services (AWS) Educate Programme, giving students free credits, training, and access to cloud-based labs and learning resources.
• First-year team-building day trip to bond with your classmates and develop collaboration skills from day one.
• Access to enterprise software used by global companies, including SAP and Microsoft tools, through our University Alliance partnerships.
• Degree tailoring options with electives in areas like entrepreneurship, marketing, and global business to match your career ambitions.
• Practical experience in user experience design, coding, data analytics, and decision modelling, equipping you with in-demand professional skills.
• Outstanding 100% graduate employability rate, with BIS graduates working across consulting, tech, finance, and business strategy roles in Ireland and abroad.

We’re living in an increasingly digital world, and organisations of every kind are investing in technology to improve how they operate, connect with customers, and make decisions. As a result, there’s a growing demand for graduates who understand both business and technology, and can bring the two together to drive innovation.

Graduates of the BSc in Business Information Systems are uniquely positioned to meet this demand. You’ll be equipped with a rare mix of analytical, technical and interpersonal skills—making you highly sought-after in sectors like tech, finance, healthcare, consulting, retail, and the public sector.

Typical graduate roles include:

• Business Analyst
• Project Manager
• Cyber Security Specialist
• IT Consultant
• Data Analyst
• UX Designer
• Systems Analyst
• Digital Transformation Specialist
• eCommerce Consultant
• Specialist IS Consultant
• Software Tester/Developer
• IS Manager

100% of BIS graduates secure degree-related employment, which is a testament to the strength and industry relevance of the programme. Many of our students are offered graduate roles by their placement employers, meaning they often graduate with jobs already secured. These offers often come before final year is complete, giving students real peace of mind as they finish their studies. Others go on to further study in areas such as data science, artificial intelligence, or cybersecurity. Some graduates also use their skills to launch their own businesses or join early-stage start-ups.

Our BIS graduates have gone on to work with leading companies such
SAP, Accenture, Avaya, CISCO, Google, KPMG, Deloitte, Intel, Lawler Developments, Lionbridge, Pramerica, IBM, and many more.

With digital skills now central to how the world works, a degree in Business Information Systems puts you at the heart of the future of business.

The BSc in Business Information Systems includes a mandatory semester abroad in Year 3, giving students the chance to live and study in a new country while continuing their education through a global lens.

When It Happens
Your study abroad experience takes place in Semester 1 of Year 3 and is a built-in, credited part of the programme.

Where Can You Go?

BIS students can study at one of our trusted international partner institutions. Recent destinations have included:

• Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), Hong Kong
• Kogod School of Business, Washington DC, USA
• Montana State University, USA
• Lehigh University, New York, USA
• ESC Rennes, France

Please Note: Partner institutions may vary year to year based on active agreements.

Language of Study

Modules are taught through English, allowing you to fully engage with the academic experience, regardless of language background.

Skills Development & Outcomes

Your semester abroad isn’t just a change of scenery, it’s a major step in your personal and professional development. It’s an opportunity to:

• Gain international exposure to business and digital technologies
• Strengthen key soft skills like adaptability, communication, and resilience
• Build confidence living and working in new cultural contexts
• Develop a broader global perspective on business practices
• Stand out to employers with a unique global experience
• Grow in independence, both personally and academically
• Travel, explore new places, and make lifelong friends
• Build an international network that can open doors to global career opportunities

Financial Support

Students studying in Europe typically qualify for Erasmus+ funding, which provides financial support for travel and living expenses. Additional funding may be available depending on your host institution and country.

Why It Matters

In a world that’s growing more digital and globally connected by the day, this experience ensures you graduate with a global mindset, an international network, and the kind of real-world adaptability that employers actively seek. 

In Semester 2 of Year 3, all BIS students undertake a paid work placement in a leading business or technology organisation. This is a competitive process, with students applying and interviewing for available roles. Placements typically last between 3 to 8 months, depending on the employer and the nature of the role.

Where Can You Go?
Placements take place across Ireland and occasionally abroad, depending on company needs and student interest.

Sample Placement Partners:
Students have recently completed placements with top employers including:

• SAP
• Dell
• EY (Ernst & Young)
• OnePageCRM
• Avaya
• Pramerica
• Portwest
• Accenture
• Medtronic
• Pepsi
• Google
• Wayfair
• Ericsson

Pathway to Employment
Many students impress their placement employers so much that they receive job offers before graduation. This work placement is an excellent way to gain practical experience, build your confidence, and launch a successful career in business information systems.

The BSc Business Information Systems (BIS) programme is accredited by the European Foundation for Management Development (EFMD), a globally recognised body that sets rigorous standards for business and management education.

About EFMD Accreditation:
EFMD accreditation recognises programmes that meet highest standards across all aspects of delivery, including curriculum design, teaching quality, assessment, academic rigour, practical relevance, and alignment with global best practices. This accreditation is awarded following a comprehensive review process that evaluates internationalisation, ethical standards, and the programme’s overall impact on graduate outcomes.

Graduate Opportunities
EFMD accreditation assures students and employers of the high quality and strong employability of BIS graduates. It signals to leading multinational companies and recruiters that our graduates have been trained in a rigorous, industry-aligned, and globally relevant programme.

International Recognition
EFMD accreditation is respected worldwide, with accredited programmes spanning over 40 countries. This recognition supports graduate mobility and international career opportunities.

Post-Graduation Requirements:
There are no additional exams or qualifications required to benefit from this accreditation. All students who successfully complete the programme graduate with an internationally recognised EFMD-accredited business degree.

Tom Acton
Noel Carroll
Kieran Conboy
Sharon Coyle
William Golden
Anastasia Griva
Mairéad Hogan
Martin Hughes
David Kreps
Michael Lang
Mona Mashinchi
Lorraine Morgan
Anatoli Nachev
Mahya Ostovar
Pierangelo Rosati
Murray Scott
Umair Ul Hassan
Azka Umair
Simeon Vidolov
Blair Wang
Eoin Whelan

How Will I Learn?

Blended Lectures and Labs — Core concepts are taught through interactive lectures, supported by computer lab sessions where students apply their learning using platforms such as SAP and Microsoft Dynamics.

Industry-Led Projects and Case Studies — Students work on practical assignments that simulate real-world business challenges, often guided by input from industry partners on our advisory board.

Technology-Enhanced Learning — Students engage with digital platforms, coding environments, enterprise systems, and business analytics tools to support independent and group-based learning.

Work Placement and Site Visits — Semester 2 of Year 3 includes a paid work placement with leading multinationals, providing valuable professional experience. Site visits and guest speakers ensure alignment with current industry practices.

Global Experience Option — Students have the opportunity to spend a full academic year abroad studying or working in an international context, further broadening their perspectives and skills.

How Will I Be Assessed?

Continuous Assessment — Includes regular assignments, presentations, in-class quizzes, and technical exercises.

Examinations — Formal exams assess theoretical knowledge and problem-solving skills. Exams are usually held at the end of each semester.

Project Work — Group and individual projects involve the design, development or analysis of business systems, giving students the opportunity to demonstrate both technical and strategic thinking.

Work Placement Assessment — The professional placement is graded on a pass/fail basis and includes employer feedback and a student reflection.

Participation and Skills Development —Practical workshops, seminars, and tutorials contribute to continuous assessment and professional growth.

Course Queries: 
business@universityofgalway.ie   

Programme Director:  
Prof Lorraine Morgan
J.E. Cairnes School of Business & Economics
College of Business, Public Policy & Law
lorraine.morgan@universityofgalway.ie

Q: What kind of student is this course suited for?
A: This course is ideal for students who enjoy problem-solving, working with technology, and thinking about how digital tools can improve how businesses operate. Students should have an interest in business, technology, logic, and how systems work.

Q: Do I need to know how to code before starting this course?
A: No prior coding experience is needed. You’ll be introduced to coding, databases, and business technology from the ground up, with plenty of support through labs and tutorials.

Q: How technical is the BIS degree?
A: BIS is a business degree with a strong technology focus. Alongside modules in coding, databases, cybersecurity, and analytics, you’ll study core business subjects such as economics, management, accounting, and marketing. The emphasis is on how technology supports decision-making, innovation, and business performance - making it ideal for students who want to work at the intersection of business and tech.

Q: What kind of work placement is included?
A: In Year 3, you’ll complete a paid, semester-long work placement with one of our industry partners — including multinationals and local tech companies. You’ll apply what you’ve learned in a real-world setting and build valuable industry experience and contacts.

Q: What kind of careers do graduates go into?
A: Graduates work in roles like business analyst, project manager, data analyst, systems consultant, and more. Many work with multinational tech companies, consulting firms, and financial services organisations.

Q: Is the BIS programme accredited?
A: Yes. The BIS programme is EFMD-accredited, which is an international quality mark recognising high standards in curriculum, industry relevance, teaching, and graduate employability.

 

Minimum Entry Requirements
Minimum Grade H5 in two subjects and passes in four other subjects at O6/H7 level in the Leaving Certificate, including Irish, English, another language, Mathematics, and any two other subjects recognised for entry purposes. 

Alternative Pathways
The Access Centre at University of Galway provides a number of alternative entry routes to undergraduate programmes. See below some useful links:

• QQI/FET/FETAC Places
• Mature Students
• Access and Foundation programmes
• HEAR Scheme
• DARE Scheme

Other Qualifications
If you are a school leaver presenting results other than Leaving Cert results, please review the entry requirements relevant to you:

• A Level students
• International Baccalaureate students
• EU students

For applicants whose first language is not English, it is important to check our English Language Requirements.

Admissions Office
Our Admissions Office provides additional detail relevant to CAO applicants including key dates, FAQs and instructions for non-school leavers.

 

Irish and European (EU/EFTA/UK) Applicants
Apply via the CAO. See the CAO Handbook for useful information on applying through the CAO.

Mature Applicants
Apply via the CAO by 1 February. To apply for a place as a mature student, you must be 23 years of age on or before 1 January of the year of entry. Further information available here.

QQI/FET/FETAC Applicants
Apply via the CAO. See our QQI/FET/FETAC Applicants page for information on places available and entry requirements,  

 

 

Fees for Academic Year 2025/2026

Course Type	Year	EU Tuition	Student Contribution	Non-EU Tuition	Levy	Total Fee	Total EU Fee	Total Non-EU Fee
	All	€2,598	€3,000	€19,000	€140	€3,140	€5,738	€19,140

• Most EU students applying through the CAO will be eligible for the ‘Free Fees Initiative’. You can find out more here.
• If you are eligible for a means tested SUSI grant this may cover 100% of this Student Contribution Charge. If you are 100% eligible SUSI will pay the Student Contribution Charge of €3,000 on your behalf. 
• The Student Levy It is payable by all students and it is not covered by SUSI
• Where the course duration is greater than 1 year, there is an inflationary increase approved of 3.4% per annum for continuing year fees. This applies to non-EU fees.
• You can find additional detail on the Fees Office webpage including FAQs and how fee status is assessed.

Application Process
Students applying for full undergraduate degree programmes from outside of the European Union (EU), and who are liable for full non-EU tuition fees, should apply online via Apply to University of Galway. Our application portal opens on the 1^st October each year for each the following September.  

Further Information
Please visit the international application webpage for further information on closing dates, documentation requirements, application fees and the application process.

 

Business Information Systems