An MS in International Business is a graduate-level programme is specifically designed for individuals interested in understanding the complexities of global business landscape. Several Irish universities have come forward to train and prepare students for intriguing careers in the field offering specialised International Business degree courses. These courses are majorly focused on integrating key business principles with subjects such as finance, trade, business administration, innovation technology, marketing, and supply chains, emphasising the need to broaden one’s perspective and incorporate cross-cultural decision-making.
With a rich cultural tapestry, Ireland has become one of the most sought-after destinations for higher education, being the only English-speaking country in the European Union with only a year-long master courses, aimed at saving resources and efforts. The following article will provide you with a complete guide on points to ponder if you wish to build a career in International Business.
A hub for international business, choosing Ireland to pursue a course in business is a straightforward choice. The following are a few other reasons for the same:
Given such a high industry presence, it appears natural for students in the country to get exposure and opportunities to stay at the forefront of the field. The MS in International Business equips students with skills and knowledge, practical as well as theoretical so that the students not only possess vital skills but are capable of handling risks and the dynamic nature of global trade.
The general eligibility criteria to be admitted to this prestigious course may vary depending on the requirements laid out by your targeted university. However, most of the universities in the country require a minimum score in your previous degree, preferably in a related stream apart from clearing English language proficiency tests such as PTE/IELTS. Typically, one is required to score a minimum of 6.5 overall with no individual band below 6.0. In some cases, one might also need to appear for an interview and submit proof of relevant work experience.
For example, University College Dublin requires students to get either a minimum second-class honours degree (or equivalent) in Business, Commerce, Business Administration, International Economics (where a number of business modules were taken in that Economics degree) or a closely related area or a primary degree with a minimum of three years’ relevant work experience. On the other hand, the National College of Ireland requires students to hold a minimum of a 2.2 honours degree in either a cognate or non-cognate area at level 8 on the National Framework of Qualifications along with English language requirements.
The first step to applying for the MS in International Business is choosing the university whose curriculum aligns with your career aspirations. You must be eligible to be admitted to the programme. Then, you can simply get your documents in line and fill out the individual application form available on the course website. The form is then reviewed, and you will hear from the admission committee shortly afterwards. Once, you are offered an unconditional offer letter, the student is required to accept the offer letter and pay the deposit fee. You can then move on to apply for a student visa.
The following is a list of the few documents that you may need while applying for this course in Ireland:
This particular course requires applicants to hold a business, management or marketing degree, or a closely related business degree with 2.2 honours or equivalent scores. In case, one holds a non-business degree, the students are required to have at least five years of relevant work experience apart from a proven proficiency in the English language. The annual fee for this course is 18,000 Euros for international students.
Apart from these, several universities in Ireland offer related courses as well such as Griffith College Dublin’s MSc in International Business Management, TCD’s MSc in International Management, etc.
The MS in International Business course majorly focuses on modules such as Cross-Cultural Management, International Business Administration, International Corporate Finance and Business Transactions, Business Analytics, Strategy & Innovation, etc. These modules are designed with the objective of instilling a sense of responsibility and work ethic among learners while enriching their academic profiles with practical as well as theoretical knowledge. The business world thrives at the intersection of several fields, and these modules ensure that the students are able to draw connections and analyse the impacts of social, financial, technological and political decisions on business.
Usually, the courses are designed in a way that the students can tailor them to their interests and goals. Therefore, the elective modules vary from university to university. For example, UCD offers electives such as Entrepreneurship, Leadership, Organisation & Me, Technology and Innovation Strategy, Sustainable Production & Consumption, etc. The University of Limerick offers electives such as Corporate Responsibility and Project Management in Practice, etc. On the other hand, the National College of Ireland has electives such as Commercial Law, Strategic Management of Human Capital, Strategic Project Management, etc.
A number of universities mandate a capstone project, research paper or internship in the last semester to complete the course. These opportunities are meant to help students gain practical experience before moving on to full-time roles. Expansive research also helps students carve their niche skills in the field, serving as an asset for future opportunities. The University of Limerick requires students to complete a Research Paper and attend an International Workshop, while UCD gives students the option to choose among three pathways i.e., International Business Consultancy Project/Internship/Two Elective Modules.
The University of Limerick also provides a dual degree option to its students with its French partner universities including Audencia Business School (Nantes), Excelia Business School (La Rochelle), Neoma Business School (Reims or Rouen), Rennes Business School, and Toulouse Business School. This requires students to study for another year at the partner university to be awarded two degrees i.e., MSc from Limerick and another master’s degree from the partner university.
The annual tuition fee for an MS in International Business course in Ireland ranges from 18,000 Euros to 24,000 Euros, depending on the university. The fee structures are revised annually; therefore, it is important to keep track of the same on the official website of the university.
The cost of living in Ireland is highly variable depending upon the location and the city of the university as well as the student preferences for accommodation, etc. Capital cities such as Dublin are more expensive than the rest of the country given the high industry presence and opportunities leading to the need for more accommodation for students. Normally, the living cost for a student in the capital city goes up to €12,500 Euros while one can make do in €10,500 Euros in the rest of the country.
Planning one’s stay in the country in advance is extremely necessary. Some universities also offer their economic hostels and dorm rooms to international students; however, their availability is usually subject to first come-first serve basis. In the case of private accommodations, students often end up overpaying rent amounts, landing unsuitable accommodations and even spending nights in cramped spaces in extreme cases given the lack of preparation. Therefore, it is necessary to book one’s lodgings ahead of time to avoid any last-minute hassles.
Apart from accommodation, students also need to bear food and transportation costs, it is advised to look for accommodation near the university premises to save up on day-to-day transportation costs as well as time.
Irish Government has remained highly considerate of international students coming to study in the country. In an attempt to financially aid students, the Irish government offers several state-funded scholarships such as the Government of Ireland Scholarship which is a fully funded scholarship by the Irish Government and offers a full tuition fee waiver and a 10,000 Euros stipend for one year’s study.
There are university scholarships and bursaries as well which vary from university to university. A few of them are the following:
Any student who pursues an MS in International Business course in Ireland is set to establish themselves at the global level. They have a wide scope of career options to choose from such as International Business Analyst, Commercial Analyst, Business Development Manager, etc. to work with international agencies, import and export businesses, government institutions, NGOs, foreign subsidiaries, consulting, etc.
Universities organise several events, career fairs, and counselling sessions in order to help students have the best job opportunities. These placement groups also help students with mock interviews and tailoring their CVs as per the market requirements. Further, these universities are partnered with major industry names that visit the campus in order to recruit fresh talents. This includes the likes of Oracle, Zurich, Google, Enterprise Ireland, Dell, Accenture, Henkel, Diageo, etc.
Students also have the option to pursue further education, going forward with research groups. The country’s commitment to generating new knowledge can be easily witnessed by the vastness of research activities currently ongoing here. Students can harness these opportunities and the state-of-the-art facilities to empower themselves and create a better tomorrow.
The country provides a post-study work visa of up to two years after the completion of one’s course as a golden chance to stay in the country and gain valuable work experience. One is eligible for residency after living in the country for several years.
Pursuing a course in Ireland is not just about academia, it is an experience where one gets access to world-class facilities and infrastructure. The universities in Ireland roll out several initiatives every year ensuring a platform for students to explore their interests outside academia as well. Irish universities are well-equipped with gyms, sports complexes, auditoriums, libraries, food outlets, etc. along with various student groups flourishing on the campus. These student groups include sports clubs and societies where students can interact with peers with similar interests and build opportunities for themselves. Not only do these recreational activities aid students in creating a space for themselves in foreign lands but also help them to positively handle any stress of moving away from home.
Living in a foreign country can be challenging, especially when one has to leave their comfort space behind and navigate on one’s own while managing the academia. Universities recognise the complexity of the situations often faced by international students, therefore, there are specialised well-being centres to help students. These centres typically offer counselling, therapy, workshops, and resources to assist students in managing stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. They attempt to ensure stability for their students by promoting a holistic approach by inculcating mental health support into the academic environment and encouraging staff to recognise and assist students in stressful situations.
Ireland is a beautiful country with a plethora of green lands that are not only visually appealing but also create a serene and peaceful environment, suitable for education. Besides, the country is renowned for its cultural heritage, ranging from traditional art and music to modern buildings and events. The country is also known for celebrating a number of festivals throughout the year with St. Patrick’s Day being one of the most widely celebrated festivals in the country. It is also known for hosting international film and art festivals such as the Dublin Theatre Festival, etc. The students studying in the country get the opportunity to experience these festivals first-hand.
Yes, the Irish government offers several state-funded scholarships such as the Government of Ireland Scholarship which is a fully funded scholarship by the Irish Government and offers a full tuition fee waiver and a 10,000 Euros stipend for one year’s study.
Any student who pursues an MS in International Business course in Ireland is set to establish themselves at the global level. They have a wide scope of career options to choose from such as International Business Analyst, Commercial Analyst, Business Development Manager, etc. to work with international agencies, import and export businesses, government institutions, NGOs, foreign subsidiaries, consulting, etc.
The annual tuition fee for an MS in International Business course in Ireland ranges from 18,000 Euros to 24,000 Euros, depending on the university. The fee structures are revised annually; therefore, it is important to keep track of the same on the official website of the university.