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Bachelor of Business Studies (International Hotel Management)
Business Studies (International Hotel Management)
College of Business, Public Policy & Law, Shannon College of Hotel Management- Title of Award
- Bachelor of Business Studies
- CAO Code
- GY261
- CAO Points
- #474 (including interview points) (2025)
- Average Intake
- 85
- Delivery
- On Campus
- NFQ
- Level 8
- QQI/FET/FETAC Places
- 3
- Award Type
- Major
- Next Intake
- September 2026
- Duration
- 4 years and 9 months
Why Choose This Course?
Course Information
Experience a business degree with a difference
Combine business education with real-world experience through practical training, language studies, and paid work placements in Ireland and abroad. Over four years, you will develop the knowledge, skills, and global perspective needed to succeed in hospitality and a wide range of international business careers.
Year 1: Study at Shannon College of Hotel Management
Build a foundation in hospitality operations through practical training across seven professional areas, rotating every two to three weeks. You will also study core business subjects including Financial & Management Accounting, Marketing, and Quantitative Methods, alongside a second language (French, German, Spanish, English, or Intercultural Communication).
Year 2: Professional Operative Work Placement
Undertake a 12-month paid work placement in leading hotels in Ireland and across Europe. This immersive experience reinforces your practical training while developing your understanding of industry operations, systems, and professional practice.
Year 3: Study at Shannon College of Hotel Management
Develop your management expertise through subjects such as Rooms Division Management and Business & Hospitality Law. Continue your language studies while expanding your business knowledge in areas including Management, Human Resource Management, Information Technology, and Business Finance.
Year 4: Study at Shannon College of Hotel Management
Focus on advanced business and strategic management subjects, including Performance Management & Control, Revenue Management, Entrepreneurship, and Strategic Management. Students can also tailor their studies through elective modules such as Advanced Culinary Studies, Facilities Management, Event Management, Languages, and Hotel Asset Management.
End of Year 4: Trainee Management Work Placement
Begin a paid trainee management placement of at least nine months (typically 12–18 months) with leading international hotel companies. Many employers visit Shannon College specifically to recruit students for management development programmes and graduate roles worldwide. Following completion of the placement and a Viva Voce examination, students graduate with valuable management experience and a strong professional network
Experience a business degree with a difference
Combine business education with real-world experience through practical training, language studies, and paid work placements in Ireland and abroad. Over four years, you will develop the knowledge, skills, and global perspective needed to succeed in hospitality and a wide range of international business careers.
Year 1: Study at Shannon College of Hotel Management
Build a foundation in hospitality operations through practical training across seven professional areas, rotating every two to three weeks. You will also study core business subjects including Financial & Management Accounting, Marketing, and Quantitative Methods, alongside a second language (French, German, Spanish, English, or Intercultural Communication).
Year 2: Professional Operative Work Placement
Undertake a 12-month paid work placement in leading hotels in Ireland and across Europe. This immersive experience reinforces your practical training while developing your understanding of industry operations, systems, and professional practice.
Year 3: Study at Shannon College of Hotel Management
Develop your management expertise through subjects such as Rooms Division Management and Business & Hospitality Law. Continue your language studies while expanding your business knowledge in areas including Management, Human Resource Management, Information Technology, and Business Finance.
Year 4: Study at Shannon College of Hotel Management
Focus on advanced business and strategic management subjects, including Performance Management & Control, Revenue Management, Entrepreneurship, and Strategic Management. Students can also tailor their studies through elective modules such as Advanced Culinary Studies, Facilities Management, Event Management, Languages, and Hotel Asset Management.
End of Year 4: Trainee Management Work Placement
Begin a paid trainee management placement of at least nine months (typically 12–18 months) with leading international hotel companies. Many employers visit Shannon College specifically to recruit students for management development programmes and graduate roles worldwide. Following completion of the placement and a Viva Voce examination, students graduate with valuable management experience and a strong professional network.
Curriculum Information
Curriculum information relates to the current academic year (in most cases).Course and module offerings and details may be subject to change.
Glossary of Terms
- Credits
- You must earn a defined number of credits (aka ECTS) to complete each year of your course. You do this by taking all of its required modules as well as the correct number of optional modules to obtain that year's total number of credits.
- Module
- An examinable portion of a subject or course, for which you attend lectures and/or tutorials and carry out assignments. E.g. Algebra and Calculus could be modules within the subject Mathematics. Each module has a unique module code eg. MA140.
- Subject
- Some courses allow you to choose subjects, where related modules are grouped together. Subjects have their own required number of credits, so you must take all that subject's required modules and may also need to obtain the remainder of the subject's total credits by choosing from its available optional modules.
- Optional
- A module you may choose to study.
- Required
- A module that you must study if you choose this course (or subject).
- Required Core Subject
- A subject you must study because it's integral to that course.
- Semester
- Most courses have 2 semesters (aka terms) per year, so a three-year course will have six semesters in total. For clarity, this page will refer to the first semester of year 2 as 'Semester 3'.
Year 1 (60 Credits)
OptionalSC1111: French - 10 Credits - Semester 1OptionalSC1112: Spanish - 10 Credits - Semester 1
OptionalSC1114: Intercultural Communications - 10 Credits - Semester 1
OptionalSC1113: German - 10 Credits - Semester 1
OptionalSC1110: English as a Foreign Language - 10 Credits - Semester 1
RequiredSC1123: Principles of Marketing - 5 Credits - Semester 1
RequiredSC1100: Accommodation Services/Front Office Operations - 5 Credits - Semester 1
RequiredSC1120: Introduction to Management Accounting - 5 Credits - Semester 1
RequiredSC1121: Culinary Kitchen Practical - 5 Credits - Semester 1
RequiredSC1105: Food and Beverage 1 - 5 Credits - Semester 1
RequiredSC1102: Skills for Work Life - 5 Credits - Semester 1
RequiredSC1101: Information Technology - 5 Credits - Semester 1
RequiredSC1104: F & B1 - Restaurant Service Practical - 5 Credits - Semester 1
RequiredSC1119: Introduction to Financial Accounting - 5 Credits - Semester 2
RequiredSC1107: Quantitative Methods - 5 Credits - Semester 2
Year 2 (30 Credits)
OptionalSC2103: French - 10 Credits - Semester 3OptionalSC2105: German - 10 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalSC2106: Intercultural Communications - 10 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalSC2102: English as a Foreign Language - 10 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalSC2104: Spanish - 10 Credits - Semester 3
RequiredSC2100: Progress Reports - 10 Credits - Semester 3
RequiredSC2101: Placement Project - 10 Credits - Semester 3
Year 3 (60 Credits)
OptionalSC3207: English as a Foreign Lanuage - 10 Credits - Semester 5OptionalSC3206: French - 10 Credits - Semester 5
OptionalSC3208: German - 10 Credits - Semester 5
OptionalSC3209: Spanish - 10 Credits - Semester 5
OptionalSC3210: Intercultural Communications 2 - 10 Credits - Semester 5
RequiredSC3222: Management Accounting 1 - 5 Credits - Semester 5
RequiredSC3200: Food & Beverage 2 - 5 Credits - Semester 5
RequiredSC3201: Principles of Marketing - 5 Credits - Semester 5
RequiredSC3202: Business Skills Development - 5 Credits - Semester 5
RequiredSC3205: Economics for the Hospitality Industry - 5 Credits - Semester 5
RequiredSC3212: Hospitality and Business Law - 5 Credits - Semester 6
RequiredSC3204: Business Finance - 5 Credits - Semester 6
RequiredSC3211: Rooms Division Management - 5 Credits - Semester 6
RequiredSC3213: Human Resource Management - 5 Credits - Semester 6
RequiredSC3214: Information Technology for Business - 5 Credits - Semester 6
Year 4 (60 Credits)
OptionalSC4131: Advanced Beverage Studies - 5 Credits - Semester 7OptionalSC4133: Spanish - 5 Credits - Semester 7
OptionalSC4134: Facilities Management - 5 Credits - Semester 7
OptionalSC4115: Management of Organisational Change - 5 Credits - Semester 7
OptionalSC4108: English as a Foreign Language - 5 Credits - Semester 7
OptionalSC4109: German - 5 Credits - Semester 7
OptionalSC4107: French - 5 Credits - Semester 7
OptionalSC4139: Culinary Entrepreneurship - 5 Credits - Semester 7
RequiredSC4129: Performance Management and Cost Control - 5 Credits - Semester 7
RequiredSC4100: Applied Research Methods - 5 Credits - Semester 7
RequiredSC4102: Strategic Management and Hotel Simulation - 5 Credits - Semester 7
RequiredSC4103: Marketing Management - 5 Credits - Semester 7
RequiredSC4118: Revenue Management - 5 Credits - Semester 7
OptionalSC4128: Intercultural Communication and Management - 5 Credits - Semester 8
OptionalSC4113: Event Management - 5 Credits - Semester 8
OptionalSC4119: Asset Management - 5 Credits - Semester 8
OptionalSC4112: Organisational Behaviour for Managers - 5 Credits - Semester 8
OptionalSC4135: Final Year Research Project - 10 Credits - Semester 8
OptionalSC4136: Public Speaking for Hotel Professionals - 5 Credits - Semester 8
RequiredSC4138: Entrepreneurship - 5 Credits - Semester 8
RequiredSC4130: Head of College Keynote Speaker Programme - 5 Credits - Semester 8
RequiredSC4105: Principles of Tourism - 5 Credits - Semester 8
RequiredSC4104: International HRM - 5 Credits - Semester 8
Year 5 (30 Credits)
RequiredSC5102: Placement Reports - 15 Credits - Semester 9RequiredSC5103: Viva Voce Interview - 15 Credits - Semester 9
- Earn while you learn through two paid industry placements.
- Combine a full business degree with hands-on hospitality management training.
- Develop international experience, language skills, and leadership capability.
- Build connections with leading employers through our extensive industry and alumni network.
- Graduate with the skills, confidence, and experience to succeed anywhere in the world.
- Join a college with a reputation for outstanding graduate employment and career progression.
The BBS (International Hotel Management) prepares graduates for exciting careers in hotel management and hospitality across the world. Combining business education, practical training, language studies, and paid international work placements, students graduate with the knowledge, experience, and confidence sought by leading employers worldwide.
With a 100% graduate employment record since 1951, Shannon College graduates go on to build careers in leading hotels and resorts across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, the Americas, and beyond. The skills developed through hotel management are highly transferable, opening doors to opportunities in tourism, consulting, entrepreneurship, finance, real estate, retail, education, and many other sectors.
Throughout the programme, students develop:
- Leadership and people management skills
- Business expertise in finance, marketing, HRM, entrepreneurship, and strategy
- Commercial awareness and analytical thinking
- Language skills and intercultural competence for international careers
- Professional confidence, adaptability, and problem-solving skills
Whether your ambition is to lead a world-class hotel, launch your own business, or pursue opportunities in other industries, the BBS (International Hotel Management) provides a strong foundation for a successful global career.
Your Global Classroom
With international work placements built into the programme, the BBS (International Hotel Management) offers a truly global learning experience. Students have the opportunity to live, learn, and work abroad while gaining valuable professional experience with leading hospitality employers. These placements allow students to apply their learning in real-world environments, develop international networks, and build the confidence to succeed in a global industry.
Your International Experience
Year 2: Professional Operative Placement
Spend 12 months on a paid placement in a leading hotel in Ireland or Europe. This immersive experience develops practical skills, industry knowledge, and professional confidence while providing first-hand exposure to international hospitality operations.
End of Year 4: Trainee Management Placement
Following final examinations, students undertake a paid trainee management placement of 9–18 months with leading hospitality employers. Opportunities are available in destinations across The United Kingdom, Europe, North America, the Middle East, Asia-Pacific, Australia and beyond, with many students progressing into graduate roles upon completion.
Summer Opportunities Abroad
Students may also take advantage of additional international work opportunities during the summer months.
Why It Matters
By graduation, students will have gained up to 21 months of paid industry experience, giving them a significant advantage as they begin their careers. Along the way, they will:
- Develop international professional experience and industry expertise
- Strengthen language and intercultural communication skills
- Build a global network of industry contacts and mentors
- Gain confidence working in diverse, multicultural environments
- Develop the adaptability, independence, and leadership skills valued by employers worldwide
More than a study abroad opportunity, this is a degree designed to prepare students for international careers and global leadership opportunities.
A defining feature of the BBS (International Hotel Management) is the opportunity to gain 21 months of paid industry experience before graduation. These placements allow students to apply their learning in real-world environments, develop professional confidence, and build valuable international networks.
Year 2: Professional Operative Work Placement
Duration: 12 months (July – June)
What will I do?
The Year 2 placement is a paid professional operative placement designed to build on the practical training and language studies completed in Year 1. Students gain hands-on experience in at least two hotel departments, developing an understanding of industry operations, guest service, and business systems while working as part of a professional team.
Where will I be placed?
Placements are offered with leading hospitality employers across Europe, including France, Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg, Spain, Ireland, and the United Kingdom. Placement destinations are determined by students’ language choice, visa requirements, and available opportunities.
How does the placement process work?
The Shannon College Placement Office works closely with students and employer partners to organise placements. Most employers conduct interviews as part of the recruitment process, and students are fully prepared through dedicated employability and interview training during Year 1. Academic performance, language ability, and career goals are all considered when matching students with placement opportunities.
Erasmus Funding
Students undertaking eligible European placements may apply for Erasmus+ funding to support their international work experience. Funding levels vary depending on the host country and current programme guidelines.
Practice Education
Paid work placements form an integral part of the degree and are a key reason why Shannon College graduates are so highly regarded by employers.
Students complete:
- Year 2: 12-month Professional Operative Placement
- End of Year 4: Minimum 9-month Trainee Management Placement
Together, these structured placements provide 21 months of paid industry experience, with opportunities spanning Europe in Year 2 and destinations around the world for the final management placement.
Accreditation & Recognition
Shannon College of Hotel Management has built an international reputation for excellence in hospitality business education, earning recognition from industry bodies and global rankings alike.
Global Recognition
Shannon College is part of the University of Galway, which was ranked among the Top 50–100 institutions globally for Hospitality & Leisure Management in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026. This recognition reflects the quality of our programmes, industry engagement, and graduate outcomes.
Professional Recognition
In addition to graduating with a Bachelor of Business Studies (International Hotel Management), graduates are awarded full professional membership of the Irish Hospitality Institute (IHI), recognising their academic achievement and professional preparation for careers in hospitality management.
Industry Connections
Shannon College is a member of the International Council on Hotel, Restaurant and Institutional Education (ICHRIE), the global association for hospitality and tourism education. Through these industry connections, students benefit from a programme that remains closely aligned with international best practice and employer needs
- Suzanne Kennedy
- Pamela Likely
- Deborah O’ Hanlon
- Brian Hegarty
- Sarah Ryan
- Eithne Costello
- Keith Carden
- Orla Cullinane
- Tracy Hegarty
- David O’ Donovan
- Celine Ryan
- Loraine Kavanagh
- Edmeia Onda Kearney
- Dr Clément Desbos
- Dr Anais Guittonny
- Danielle Martin
- Dr Maria Palma-Fahy
- Stella Sloane
- Dr Finian O’ Driscol
- Celine Ryan
- Dr Sean T. Ruane
- Andrew Langford
The BBS (International Hotel Management) combines business education with practical hospitality training, language studies, and international industry experience. Learning takes place both in the classroom and in the workplace, allowing students to apply theory in real-world environments while developing the leadership, communication, and commercial skills valued by employers worldwide.
How Will I Learn?
Practical, Hands-On Learning
From Year 1, students develop professional skills through practical training in areas such as Food & Beverage Service, Front Office Operations, Culinary Studies, Accommodation Services, and Skills for Work Life. These experiences build confidence and provide a strong understanding of hospitality operations.
Business-Focused Education
Students study a broad range of business subjects including finance, marketing, human resource management, entrepreneurship, strategy, and leadership, developing the knowledge required to manage successful organisations.
Industry Engagement
Regular guest lectures and employer presentations provide insights from industry professionals, helping students understand emerging trends, build professional networks, and explore career opportunities.
Paid Work Placements
Two integrated paid work placements allow students to apply their learning in leading hospitality businesses in Ireland and internationally, gaining valuable professional experience before graduation.
Languages & Intercultural Learning
Students develop language and intercultural communication skills that prepare them to work confidently in international and multicultural environments.
How Will I Be Assessed?
Assessment is designed to reflect both academic learning and professional practice and may include:
- Individual and group assignments
- Presentations and oral assessments
- Practical evaluations
- In-class tests and language assessments
- Project work and placement reports
- Written examinations
Formal examinations take place at the end of each academic semester in Years 1, 3, and 4. During Year 2, students complete a placement project that allows them to reflect on their professional experience and apply their learning in a real-world context.
Throughout the programme, students receive regular feedback to support their academic, personal, and professional development.
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.
Alumni Awards
Isabella Condon – Gold Service Scholar 2025
Isabella Condon, originally from Newcastle West, Co. Limerick, and a graduate of Shannon College of Hotel Management in 2023 has been named the Gold Service Scholar 2025 .
Currently working as junior assistant manager at the two-Michelin-starred Dinner by Heston Blumenthal in London, Isabella previously joined the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park as part of its risingfan management training programme before her promotion in 2024 .
Selected from a record 10 finalists in a prestigious competition final held in January at the Corinthia London and recognised at an awards ceremony on 10 February at Claridge’s, Isabella stood out in live service tests before VIP guests.
As Scholar, she will enjoy a curated programme of professional development opportunities: exclusive work placements at Mandarin Oriental properties in Bangkok and Hong Kong, a Rocco Forte hotel, the Waterside Inn in Berkshire, visits to LaurentPerrier, EHL Lausanne, Graham’s Port in Porto, and even a Buckingham Palace garden party—along with lifelong membership in the “Team Gold” network.
An Interview with 2025 Scholar, Isabella Condon - The Gold Service Scholarship
Course queries:
Joan Markham – Admissions Officer , Shannon College of Hotel Management
E: joan.markham@universityofgalway.ie
T: 0353 91 497212
Programme Director(s):
David O’ Donovan
Accounting & Finance Lecturer
Programme Leader BBS & BComm Programmes
Shannon College of Hotel Management
College of Business , Public Policy and Law
E: david.odonovan@universityofgalway.ie
T: 00353 91 497234
Q: What is the difference between the BBS (International Hotel Management) and the BComm (International Hotel Management)?
A: Both programmes are Level 8 business degrees and students study and complete placements together during Years 1, 2, 3, and the Final Placement. The key difference is in Year 4. BBS students remain at Shannon College, focusing on advanced hospitality management, strategic leadership, and business modules. BComm students study on the University of Galway campus, specialising in a chosen business discipline such as marketing, finance, management, or accounting, without further hotel management modules.
Q: Can I transfer between the BBS and BComm programmes?
A: Yes. Students may apply to transfer between programmes after Year 1, subject to academic requirements and the availability of places.
- Students wishing to transfer from the BBS to the BComm must achieve a minimum average of 70% in Year 1 examinations.
- Students wishing to transfer from the BComm to the BBS must successfully pass all Year 1 modules.
Transfer requests must be submitted in writing to the Programme Leader before enrolling in Year 3.
Q: What careers can I pursue with this degree.
A: Graduates of the BBS (International Hotel Management) build successful careers in hotel management and hospitality across the world, with many progressing into leadership roles with leading international employers. The business, leadership, and people management skills developed throughout the programme are highly transferable, creating opportunities across a wide range of industries. Shannon College graduates have gone on to careers in tourism, consulting, entrepreneurship, finance, real estate, retail, education, technology, and many other sectors. Whether your ambition is to manage a world-class hotel, launch your own business, or pursue opportunities in another industry, this degree provides the knowledge, experience, and global perspective to support your career ambitions.
Q: Do I need to have studied Business or Accounting before applying?
A: No. Many students begin the programme without prior experience in business subjects. Modules are designed to support students from a wide range of educational backgrounds, with concepts introduced from the fundamentals and additional tutorial support available throughout the programme.
Q: Where will I study throughout the programme?
A: The BBS (International Hotel Management) combines learning on campus with valuable industry experience.
- Year 1: Study at Shannon College of Hotel Management, where you'll build your practical hospitality skills, business knowledge, and language capabilities.
- Year 2: Complete a 12-month paid professional work placement with a leading hotel in Ireland or Europe.
- Year 3: Return to Shannon College to deepen your knowledge of hospitality management, business, and leadership while continuing your language studies.
- Year 4: Continue your studies at Shannon College, focusing on advanced business and hospitality management, strategic leadership, and elective modules.
- After Year 4: Begin a paid trainee management placement with a leading hospitality employer in Ireland or overseas before graduating.
This unique structure allows you to combine practical industry experience with advanced hospitality management education, graduating with the skills, confidence, and international experience to succeed in hospitality, business, and beyond.
Accreditations & Awards
Meet our Employers
Entry Requirements and Fees
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, Mathematics, a third language, and any two other subjects recognised for entry purposes.
Additional Requirements
Interview Details - All applicants must attend a selection interview, for which up to 300 points may be awarded. Shannon College will contact all students directly by post after the CAO closing dates to arrange their interview. Please notify Shannon College’s Admissions Office if you do not receive correspondence shortly after the CAO closing dates. Interviews are normally held in April and July. Courses are not restricted.
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
There are 3 places available on GY261Business Studies (International Hotel Management).
All level 5 and level 6 awards accepted
*Additional Conditions: only those applicants with a Distinction (80% or better) in a minimum of five modules in the qualification including a pass in the module 5N1833/C20139 Mathematics or Grade O6 in Mathematics Leaving Certificate Ordinary Level, or better will be considered for entry to first year Business Studies (International Hotel Management – Shannon College) GY261.
Other Qualifications
If you are a school leaver presenting results other than Leaving Cert results, please review the entry requirements relevant to you:
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 2026/27
| Course Type | Year | EU Tuition | Student Contribution | Non-EU Tuition | Levy | Total Fee | Total EU Fee | Total Non-EU Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| All | €4,950 | €2,500 | €15,300 | €340 | €2,840 | €7,790 | €15,640 |
- 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 €2,500 on your behalf.
- The Student Levy It is payable by all students and it is not covered by SUSI. Student levy for year 1 includes a €200 meal charge
- Where the course duration is greater than 1 year, there is an inflationary increase approved of 1.8% per annum for continuing year fees. This applies to non-EU tuition.
- You can find additional detail on the Fees Office webpage including FAQs and how fee status is assessed.
Students may be eligible to receive an Erasmus Mobility Grant to support their Placement, funded by the EU Lifelong Learning Programme: Erasmus. Erasmus is the EU’s flagship education and training programme enabling 300,000 students to study and work abroad each year. The grant amount varies and will be based on the recognised cost of living in each country.
|
|
Year 1 |
Year 2 |
Year 3 |
Year 4 |
Final Year |
Total |
| Tuition Fees |
€15,300 |
€4,750 |
€15,300 |
€15,300 |
No Fees |
€50,650 |
| Placement Salaries |
|
Approx. €23,500 |
|
|
Range from €26,000- €50,000 |
|
College Fees
The following fees are payable by both BBS and BComm students: Student Levy
A student levy is payable by all students at the beginning of each of the first four years of the degree studies. In 2026/2027 the student levy was €140 Meal Charge
Year 1 students are provided with lunch in the college on Wednesday and Thursday during the 10 weeks of practical training (total of 20 meals). Each lunch is a three-course meal. In 2026/2027 the meal charge was €200.
Other Costs
| Costs |
Approx. Amount |
Details |
| Accommodation |
twin/
single per week |
For the 2026 2027 academic year, year 1 students are living in Thomond Village, old cratloe road and Cratloe wood student village, old cratloe road, Limerick. This purpose built student accommodation is privately managed by PMI. It offers a range of bedroom options to include, twin, single, double and ensuite rooms. Each apartment has 3 bedrooms and a shared living space. Both accommodations offer on site security, reception and maintenance. Costs range (per student per year) from €5,110 to €6,730 approx. Please see links here - https://www.pmi.ie/Student-Accommodation/Locations/Booking/11 Booking fee is €400 |
| Utilities Deposit |
€500 |
A utilities deposit of €500 is payable and will be offset against the utility bills. |
| Uniforms |
€697 |
Includes college business suit, restaurant uniform, accommodation uniform, chef uniform, kitchen knives and kitchen safety shoes. |
| Books |
Approx €160 |
Most books are available online and in the college library. You will be required to purchase some lecture packs during orientation. |
| Health Insurance |
|
Health insurance is mandatory for visa purposes. The cost will differ depending on the type of health insurance you choose to purchase. Please see the link below for further information. www.universityofgalway.ie/international-students/offerholders/immigration |
The breakdown to costs for International Students
Non EU Fees
| Year |
Non-EU Tuition |
Levy |
Total Non-EU Fee |
| Year 1 |
€16,000 |
€340 |
€16,340 |
| Year 2 – 12 month work placement |
€5,550 |
€140 |
€5,690 |
| Year 3 |
€16,000 |
€140 |
€16,140 |
| Year 4 |
€16,000 |
€140 |
€16,140 |
| 9 month Work Placement |
|
|
|
| Total Cost : |
€53,500 |
€760 |
€54,310 |
The above summary is based on 2026/2027 costs and expenses. However, there may be changes in costs for the 2027/2028 academic year.
Updated July 2026
Fee Regulations
Full details of all regulations relating to fees including the refund policy can be found on the University of Galway website: www.universityofgalway.ie/international-students/offerholders/fees-and-registration/
Disclaimer
Shannon College reserves the right to change regulations, academic structure, placement arrangements, fees, deposits and fee structure at any time.
Updated August 2026
At Shannon College of Hotel Management, we are committed to recognising talent, rewarding achievement, and supporting students to reach their full potential. A range of scholarships are available for Irish, EU, and international students, helping to make a Shannon College education even more accessible.
University of Galway Excellence Scholarship
As part of the University of Galway Excellence Scholarship Scheme, two scholarships are awarded annually to high-achieving students entering Shannon College undergraduate programmes. Award Value: €1,500. Scholarships are awarded based on exceptional performance in the Leaving Certificate or A-Level examinations.
Shannon College Hospitality Rising Star Scholarship
This prestigious international scholarship recognises students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, passion for hospitality, and strong potential for future success in the industry. Award Value: €15,000, distributed across Years 1, 3 and 4 of the programme. No additional scholarship application is required. Recipients are selected through the admissions and interview process.
Shannon College Global Achievement Scholarship
Designed for high-achieving international students, this scholarship recognises academic excellence, ambition, and a commitment to personal and professional success. Award Value: €5,000. No additional scholarship application is required. Recipients are identified during the admissions process.
The Address Collective Excellence Scholarship
The Address Collective Excellence Scholarship supports high-achieving undergraduate students who qualify for SUSI funding and are pursuing studies in hospitality, business, or related fields. Award Value: €2,000 per student (€1,000 in Year 1 and €1,000 in Year 3) Four scholarships are awarded annually, helping students achieve their educational and career ambitions.
Kilkea Castle Scholarship
Open to both domestic and international undergraduate students, the Kilkea Castle Scholarship recognises academic potential and a commitment to excellence in hospitality education. Award Value: €2,000. Four scholarships are available each year for students commencing their studies at Shannon College.
Additional Scholarships & Awards
Throughout their studies, students may also have opportunities to apply for or be recognised through a range of scholarships, prizes, and industry-sponsored awards supported by Shannon College alumni and hospitality partners. In 2026, more than €30,000 in scholarships and awards were presented to graduating students in recognition of academic excellence, leadership, and achievement.
Students applying for full undergraduate degree programmes from outside of the European Union (EU), should apply directly through the University of Galway Online Application System - https://nuigalway.elluciancrmrecruit.com/Apply/Account/Login
Applications open on the 1st October each year for the following September.
Please contact Joan Markham – Admissions Officer at Shannon College of Hotel Management - joan.markham@universityofgalway.ie if you have any queries or need more information
Further Information
Please visit the international application webpage for further information on closing dates, documentation requirements, application fees and the application proces
Why University of Galway?
World renowned research led university nestled in the vibrant heart of Galway city on Ireland's scenic West Coast.
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Meet Our Alumni
Course Introduction
Your Passport to the World
If you're passionate about business and enjoy working with people in a dynamic, fast-paced industry with global opportunities, this course is the perfect choice. Our Bachelor of Business Studies in International Hotel Management is a unique programme that combines a comprehensive business degree with practical hospitality training, paid international work placements, and language studies.
With a 100% graduate employment rate, strong industry partnerships, and an extensive global alumni network, this degree will equip you with the skills, experience, and connections to build a successful international career. Whether your ambitions lie in hospitality, business, tourism, entrepreneurship, or beyond, this programme is your passport to a world of exciting opportunities.









