Who is this course for?

The Higher Diploma in Financial Analysis at University of Galway is designed for graduates from non-business disciplines who want to pivot into the world of finance, banking, and business. It’s especially suited to: 

Career changers looking to build a foundation in accounting and economics 

Graduates seeking practical analytical skills for roles in financial services 

Aspiring professionals aiming to progress to MSc-level study in finance 

Those targeting ACCA exemptions and a pathway into accountancy 

Whether you are a humanities graduate with a knack for numbers or a science major curious about financial markets, this conversion diploma opens the door to a dynamic and rewarding career path.

What will I study?  

Students on the Higher Diploma in Financial Analysis will study a carefully structured mix of accounting, economics, and business modules designed to build strong analytical and decision-making skills. 

Core Curriculum Highlights 

• Accounting & Financial Analysis Learn the principles of financial reporting, management accounting, and financial decision-making.
• Economics Understand macroeconomic and microeconomic frameworks, and how they apply to financial markets.
• Management Explore organisational behaviour and strategic thinking in business contexts.
• Marketing & Information Systems Gain insight into market dynamics and the role of digital systems in financial analysis. 

Elective Options (Semester 2) 

Students choose one elective module from options such as: 

• AY209 International Financial Reporting
• EC362 Economics of Financial Markets
• EC3100 Economics and Philosophy
• MS319 Enterprise Systems 

This blend of theory and applied learning prepares graduates for careers in finance, banking, and business or for progression to MSc-level study.

Curriculum Information

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

ACCA exemptions for career acceleration Secure up to four exam exemptions with the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants. 

Conversion course for non-business graduates Designed for students from diverse academic backgrounds seeking entry into finance. 

Hands-on group project experience Modules like Innovation: Creativity & Enterprise include practical teamwork and problem-solving. 

Pathway to MSc-level study Graduates are primed for progression to the MSc in Corporate Finance or MSc in International Finance. 

Applied analytical skill development Build expertise in financial decision-making through accounting, economics, and business modules. 

Real-world relevance and employability Curriculum tailored to roles in banking, financial services, and business sectors.

With a focus on real-world application, industry-relevant modules, and a strong foundation in both accounting and economics, the Higher Diploma in Financial Analysis prepares graduates for a wide range of dynamic careers in finance, banking, and business. 

Sectors and Industries in demand 

Graduates are sought after in: 

• Commercial and investment banking
• Financial services and insurance
• Corporate finance and consultancy
• Public sector finance and policy
• International business and economics 

Employers include regional and global firms such as: 

• Permanent TSB (PTSB)
• Bank of Ireland
• Deloitte, PwC, and KPMG
• Irish government departments and agencies
• Multinational corporations with finance operations across Europe and beyond 

Roles for New Graduates 

Graduates typically enter roles such as: 

• Financial Analyst
• Junior Accountant
• Business Banking Manager
• Economic Research Assistant
• Corporate Finance Associate
• Risk Analyst 

Career Progression Pathways 

With experience and further qualifications, graduates can grow into: 

• Senior Financial Consultant
• Chartered Accountant (via ACCA pathway)
• Investment Manager
• Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
• Policy Advisor in economic development 

Skills & Expertise Employers Value 

This diploma equips students with: 

• Analytical thinking and financial modelling
• Decision-making grounded in economic principles
• Proficiency in financial reporting and management accounting
• Teamwork and communication through group projects 

Emerging Trends & Growth Areas 

The financial sector is rapidly evolving with increased demand for: 

• Data-driven financial analysis
• Sustainable finance and ESG reporting
• Digital transformation in banking
• Economic forecasting in uncertain global markets 

Graduates are well-positioned to meet these challenges with adaptable, interdisciplinary skills. 

Further Study & Academic Pathways 

The diploma provides a strong foundation for progression to: 

• MSc in Corporate Finance
• MSc in International Finance
• PhD programmes in economics, finance, or business disciplines 

Mary Cosgrove
Dr Johanna Clancy
Dr. Johanna Clancy 
Dzmitry Brychkov 
Pierangelo Rosati  
John Currie 
Gerard Turley 
Aidan Kane 
Breda Lally 

How will I learn?

Students on the Higher Diploma in Financial Analysis will engage in a dynamic and applied learning experience designed to build real-world financial expertise. 

Applied, interdisciplinary approach 

The course blends accounting, economics, and business modules to develop analytical and decision-making skills relevant to finance and banking sectors. Students have approximately 25 contact hours per week, across Monday to Friday.  

Continuous assessment Students benefit from ongoing evaluation throughout the year, easing pressure at final exams and encouraging consistent engagement. Semester 1 exams take place during the month of December, and Semester 2 exams take place during April/May. Autumn exams take place during the month of August. End of semester exams take place in-person at various locations across the University of Galway campus. 

Hands-on group projects Modules like Innovation: Creativity & Enterprise include collaborative projects that simulate real business challenges. 

Choice and flexibility In Semester 2, students select one elective module - such as International Financial Reporting or Economics of Financial Markets - to tailor their learning to specific interests. 

Industry-relevant curriculum The programme is designed to meet employer needs, with a focus on practical financial analysis and strategic thinking. 

This learning model ensures students graduate with both the theoretical foundation and the practical skills needed to thrive in the financial world.

Programme Director: 

Natasha Caulfield, Lecturer, Accountancy & Finance 
E: natasha.caulfield@universityofgalway.ie 

Q: Who is this course suitable for?
A: This course is perfect for graduates from non-business backgrounds who want to pivot into finance, banking, or business. Whether you studied arts, science, or engineering, if you are curious about financial decision-making and want a career in the financial sector, this diploma is your launchpad. 

Q: What will I study on this programme?
A: You will dive into modules covering accounting, economics, and business. Expect to explore financial reporting, management accounting, macro and microeconomics, marketing, and enterprise systems. You’ll also choose an elective in Semester 2 to tailor your learning - options include International Financial Reporting and Economics of Financial Markets. 

Q: How is the programme assessed?
A: Assessment is continuous throughout the year, which helps ease the pressure of final exams. You will be evaluated through a mix of exams, individual and group assignments, presentations, and a final applied project. It’s a balanced approach that supports consistent learning and development. 

Q: What kind of practical experience will I gain?
A: You will work on hands-on group projects, especially in modules like Innovation: Creativity & Enterprise, where you will tackle real-world business challenges. The course focuses on applied learning, so you will build practical skills in financial analysis, decision-making, and teamwork. 

Q: What roles do graduates go on to?
A: Graduates typically step into roles such as Financial Analyst, Junior Accountant, Business Banking Manager, Risk Analyst, or Economic Research Assistant. With experience, many progress to senior roles like Investment Manager, Chartered Accountant, or even CFO2. 

Q: What companies hire graduates of the programme?
A: Graduates have gone on to work with major players like Permanent TSB, Bank of Ireland, Deloitte, PwC, and KPMG. Others find opportunities in government departments, multinational corporations, and financial consultancies across Ireland and internationally. 

Q: What transferable skills will I develop? 
A: You will leave with a toolkit of valuable skills: 

• Analytical thinking and financial modelling
• Communication and presentation skills
• Team collaboration and project management
• Critical reasoning and strategic insight
• Digital fluency and time management 

These skills are in high demand across industries - not just in finance, and will serve you well wherever your career takes you. 

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). 

Graduates of the Higher Diploma in Financial Analysis at University of Galway develop a robust set of transferrable skills that are highly valued across industries - not just in finance. These skills prepare students for dynamic roles and future career growth in a variety of sectors. 

Transferrable Skills You will gain include:  

Analytical thinking Ability to interpret financial data and economic trends to inform strategic decisions. 

Numerical literacy Confidence working with figures, budgets, and financial models. 

Problem-solving Applying accounting and economic principles to tackle real-world business challenges. 

Communication skills Presenting complex financial concepts clearly to diverse audiences. 

Team collaboration Working effectively in group projects, especially in modules like Innovation: Creativity & Enterprise. 

Time management Balancing continuous assessment and deadlines across multiple modules. 

Digital fluency Exposure to enterprise systems and financial software tools. 

Critical reasoning Evaluating financial strategies and economic policies with a logical, evidence-based approach. 

Adaptability Transitioning from a non-business background into a finance-focused skill set. 

These skills not only open doors in banking and finance but also transfer seamlessly into roles in consulting, public policy, tech, and beyond. 

Minimum Entry Requirements 

Candidates must hold at least a Second Class Honours Level 8 primary degree in a related subject area or hold a primary degree in a related area (which is acceptable to the college) without honours and have three years’ relevant practical experience in the subject area.

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 quotes 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
PG Diploma Full Time	1	€5,860			€140		€6,000

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. 

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.