The MSc International Accounting and Analytics - Pathway A is tailored for high-achieving business or commerce graduates who have not yet specialised in accounting but now want to pivot into a professional accounting career with a strong analytics edge. 

The programme is ideally suited to:  

• General business graduates seeking to deepen their expertise in accounting and analytics.
• International students looking for a globally recognised qualification with strong industry links.
• Career changers aiming to enter the accounting profession with practical skills in audit analytics and data interrogation.
• Ambitious professionals who want exemptions from ACCA/CPA exams and fast-track their entry into top-tier firms.
• This course suits those who are ready for an intensive, future-focused programme that blends technical accounting knowledge with cutting-edge analytics tools. 

What will I study?  

The MSc International Accounting and Analytics - Pathway A is an intensive 10–11 month programme designed for high-calibre business and commerce graduates who have not previously specialised in accounting but now wish to pursue a professional career in the field. 

Delivered over two taught semesters, the programme combines practical, technical, and research-led insights from a team of experienced academics and industry practitioners. Students gain deep knowledge across key business areas essential for success in today’s data-driven financial landscape. 

As part of the module AY5141 Accounting and Management Control for Sustainable Organizations, students participate in a unique three-week virtual collaboration with peers from Groningen, Ghent, and Galway. Working in multicultural teams, students explore key topics in management control of innovation and sustainability - reflecting the realities of today’s global, digitised workforce. 

Through collaborative online learning, each team meets at least once to discuss challenges and opportunities in controlling innovation and sustainability. The experience culminates in a reflective submission, helping students build essential skills in cross-cultural communication, virtual teamwork, and strategic thinking - skills increasingly vital in international finance and accounting roles. 

The final phase of the programme includes two practitioner-led summer schools* in May and June, offering a capstone experience that consolidates the technical skills developed throughout the year.  

The overall objective of the summer school module is to familiarise students with a range of contemporary issues that influence how businesses operate, and how management both accounts for the stewardship of the business, and, assesses the management of organisational performance. In 2025 students participated in the following summer schools:  

1. Financing Net Zero - delivered by Barry Gavin 
   This summer school aims to provide students with the ability to hold their own with professionals working in the Sustainability sector in terms understanding the Concepts, Language, Structures, Process, Risks, Challenges and Opportunities, essential to navigate the sector. Through real-world case studies and expert-led discussions, participants develop a clear understanding of how finance enables the transition to Net Zero. 
2. Analytics in Accounting and Auditing - delivered by KPMG
   This summer school provides participants with 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.   

Speakers included:  

• The growing importance of innovations in technology for business, finance and accounting - Laurence May, Partner KPMG Galway 
• Digitalisation, AI and the Future of Work” Mr. David Bermingham, Director of Engineering, Consultancy in AI Implementation  
• AI Delivery and deployment in the world of Work”  Mr. Alan Lavery, Director of 
  Analytics and AI at KPMG Belfast 
• Data Analytics and Technology in Audit - Colm Supple (Senior Associate, IRM Team KPMG) and Luke Finn, KPMG   
• Advanced Analytics Tools for Finance Professionals - Jennifer Loftus, Group CFO Acorn Life, Ireland 
• Using MS Excel to Analyse & Manage Data in audit environmentMs. Roisin Nic Fhearghusa, Programme Lead, KPMG Business School, Saoirse Higgins and Patrick Robilliard, KPMG  
• How a Galway Company is protecting the world through Data, Analytics & AI - David Stafford, Siren IO
• Cybersecurity as Financial Risk: What Every Future CFO Needs to Know” Sean Morris, CTO, Titan HQ
• Approaching data with a critical mind - Mark Gantly, adjunct professor, University of Galway
• Applied Intelligence: Census Insights and Opportunities for Regional and Urban Planning - Stephen Purcell, Director and Co-Head, KPMG Future Analytics 
• Smart Start- Up: How Cityswift Leverages Data Analytics for Growth’ - Conor Quaine, CFO Cityswift 

Graduates benefit from substantial exemptions from ACCA examinations, including papers F1, F2, F3, F5, F7, F8, and F9. CPA exemptions are also available.** 

*Summer School topics may vary from year to year. 

**Please note: exemptions from professional accounting bodies are subject to change based on syllabus and content updates. 

Curriculum Information

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

Industry-led summer schools: Learn directly from Big Four firms and global finance leaders in immersive, practitioner-led sessions. 

Audit analytics specialism: First in Ireland and the UK to offer hands-on training in audit analytics tools tailored for accountants. 

Real-world application: Apply data interrogation and financial reporting skills to contemporary global business challenges. 

Professional exam exemptions: Secure exemptions from key ACCA and CPA papers, accelerating your path to qualification. 

Sustainability focus: Explore modules like Accounting & Management Control for Sustainable Organisations and Sustainable Finance and Accounting 

Career-ready skillset: Develop expertise in R, SQL, Python, Tableau, and big data analytics - highly sought after by employers. 

With a focus on real-world application, industry-relevant modules, and practitioner-led summer schools, the MSc International Accounting and Analytics – Pathway A prepares graduates for a wide range of exciting careers in accounting, finance, and data analytics.  

Global Career Opportunities 

Graduates are in demand across sectors such as: 

• Accounting and audit firms (e.g. KPMG, Grant Thornton, HedgeServ, Mazars, Arthur Bell Limited)
• Financial services and fintech (e.g. Planet, CMS Distribution, ICON plc)
• Multinational corporations and consulting firms
• Technology-driven companies seeking finance professionals with analytics expertise 

Roles for New Graduates 

Typical entry-level positions include: 

• Financial Analyst
• Audit Associate
• Management Accountant
• Data Analyst (Finance)
• Fund Accountant
• Trainee Accountant 

Career Progression Pathways 

With experience, graduates can advance into: 

• Senior Financial Accountant
• Finance Manager or Controller
• Risk and Compliance Analyst
• Corporate Finance Consultant
• Head of Analytics or CFO roles in data-driven organisations 

Skills Employers Want 

This programme equips students with: 

• Technical accounting knowledge aligned with ACCA and CPA standards
• Data analytics proficiency in R, SQL, Python, Tableau, and SAP BW
• Strategic thinking and communication skills for leadership roles
• Sustainability-focused financial expertise through modules like Sustainable Finance and Accounting 

Industry Trends & Emerging Opportunities 

The accounting profession is rapidly evolving with: 

• A growing demand for data-literate accountants
• Skills shortages in audit analytics and financial data interrogation
• Increased focus on sustainable reporting and ESG compliance  

Further Study & Academic Pathways 

Graduates may progress to: 

• PhD programmes in accounting, finance, or analytics
• Lecturer or researcher roles in third-level institutions
• Professional qualifications with Chartered Accountants Ireland, ACCA, or CPA Ireland (with exemptions available) 

ACCA Accelerate Programme 

KPMG led Summer School 

• Prof Breda Sweeney
• Dr Orla Lenihan 
• Dr Patricia Martyn
• Dr Anatoli Nachev
• Dr Anastasia Griva
• Dr Umair ul Hassan
• Prof Eoin Whelan 

Lecturers may change from year to year. 

Assessment methods include exams, individual and group assignments, presentations, and a hands-on analytics project. These are designed to reflect the practical demands of the profession and help you build confidence in applying your skills.

Programme Director 
Dr Patricia Martyn 
E: patricia.martyn@universityofgalway.ie 

Programme Administrators 
Ms Sharon Gilmartin and Ms Tracy Coloe Cloonan 
E: accountancy@universityofgalway.ie 

Q: Who is this course suitable for?
A: This programme is designed for high-achieving business or commerce graduates who haven’t specialised in accounting but now want to pivot into a professional accounting career with a strong analytics focus. If you're ready for an intensive, future-focused qualification that blends accounting with data-driven decision-making, this is for you. 

Q: What will I study on this programme?
A: You’ll study a mix of accounting, finance, and analytics modules across two semesters, followed by practitioner-led summer schools. Topics include corporate finance, auditing, international financial reporting, sustainable accounting, and big data analytics. You’ll also choose electives like storytelling through data and customer analytics to tailor your learning. 

Q: How is the programme assessed?
A: Assessment methods include exams, individual and group assignments, presentations, and a hands-on analytics project. These are designed to reflect the practical demands of the profession and help you build confidence in applying your skills.

Q: What kind of practical experience will I gain?
A: You’ll gain hands-on experience with audit analytics tools and financial software. The summer schools, led by industry professionals, offer real-world exposure to current practices in global finance and accounting. 

Q: What roles do graduates go on to?
A: Graduates typically start in roles such as Financial Analyst, Audit Associate, Management Accountant, or Data Analyst (Finance). With experience, many progress to senior positions like Finance Manager, Corporate Finance Consultant, or Head of Analytics. 

Q: What types of companies hire MSc International Accounting and Analytics graduates?
A: Graduates are hired by top firms including KPMG, Grant Thornton, Abbott and UPS. Opportunities span accounting practices, financial services, consulting, and tech-driven companies across Ireland and internationally. 

Q: Are industry connections part of the programme?
A: Yes, they are an integral part of it. The programme features practitioner led summer schools and guest lectures from industry experts. These connections provide valuable insights, networking opportunities, and exposure to current trends in finance and analytics. 

Q: What transferable skills will I develop?
A: You’ll build a robust set of skills including analytical reasoning, digital fluency, strategic thinking, professional communication, and collaborative competence. These skills are highly valued across industries and will support your career growth wherever you go.

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). 

Analytical Reasoning Graduates will be equipped to critically evaluate complex financial and operational data, enabling informed decision-making in dynamic business environments. 

Technological Proficiency The programme provides hands-on experience with industry-standard tools such as R, Python, SQL, Tableau, and SAP BW, fostering digital competence in financial analytics. 

Problem-Solving Capability Through applied coursework and case-based learning, students will develop the ability to identify challenges and implement effective, evidence-based solutions. 

Professional Communication Emphasis is placed on developing clear and persuasive communication skills, enabling graduates to convey technical insights to diverse audiences, including stakeholders and senior management. 

Strategic Thinking Students will gain an understanding of how financial and analytical practices align with broader organisational goals, including sustainability and long-term value creation. 

Adaptability and Resilience Exposure to global accounting standards, emerging technologies, and evolving industry practices ensures graduates are prepared to navigate change and complexity. 

Collaborative Competence Group projects, practitioner-led summer schools, and interactive modules foster teamwork and interpersonal skills essential for professional success. 

These transferrable skills position graduates to contribute meaningfully across a wide range of roles and sectors, and to adapt effectively to the evolving demands of the global financial landscape. 

Minimum Entry Requirements

A First or Second Class Honours Grade 1 in a commerce/ business degree (or equivalent qualification) will be required. IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent, if applicable. 

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 less than 6.5 in Writing and no less than 6.0 in any other band) or equivalent.  

More information on English language test equivalency are 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 quotas 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 2025/2026

Course Type	Year	EU Tuition	Student Contribution	Non-EU Tuition	Levy	Total Fee	Total EU Fee	Total Non-EU Fee
Masters Full Time	1	€11,500		€20,500	€140		€11,640	€20,640

For 25/26 entrants, where the course duration is greater than 1 year, there is an inflationary increase approved of 3.4% per annum for continuing years fees.

Postgraduate students in receipt of a SUSI grant – please note an F4 grant is where SUSI will pay €4,000 towards your tuition (2025/26).  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. 

Postgraduate Excellence Scholarships 

This scholarship is valued at €1,500 for EU students applying for full-time taught master's postgraduate courses. You will be eligible if: 

• You have been accepted to a full-time taught master's course at University of Galway,
• You have attained a first class honours (or equivalent) in a Level 8 primary degree.  

An application for the scholarship scheme is required (separate to the application for a place on the programme). The application portal for 2025 is now open and available here. Applications will close on the 30th September 2025. Full details available here.  

Global Scholarships

University of Galway offers a range of merit-based scholarships to students from a number of countries outside of the EU. Visit here for schemes currently available.  

Business Merit Scholarships  

J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics is committed to attracting high calibre students from around the world. We are offering Merit Scholarships across all of our Taught Master's programmes. To be eligible candidates must have achieved a H1 (or international equivalent) in their primary degree and scholarships are offered on a competitive basis. All candidates who meet these criteria and have accepted a place on the programme are automatically considered for a scholarship. Scholarships are awarded up to 50% of the programme tuition fees. Click here to learn more .

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.