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Hospitality Management (PgCert)
PgCert (Hospitality Management)
College of Business, Public Policy & Law, Shannon College of Hotel Management- Title of Award
- Postgraduate Certificate
- Course Code
- PGC-HM
- Average Intake
- 15
- Delivery
- On Campus
- NFQ
- Level 9
- Award Type
- Minor
- Next Intake
- September 2026
- Duration
- 12 weeks
- ECTS Weighting
- 30
Why Choose This Course?
Course Information
Who is this course for?
This course is suited to individuals who already hold qualifications or experience in hospitality or business and want to advance their understanding of hospitality systems, current trends, and business applications. It is ideal for those looking to deepen their expertise in areas such as revenue management, global human resource management, business analytics, and hospitality technology.
Participants typically include aspiring or current professionals seeking a focused, specialised programme that enhances their analytical, managerial, and operational skills. Delivered full-time over a 12-week semester, the course appeals to learners who value a hands-on approach - combining lectures, industry engagement, field trips, guest speakers, CHIA certification, and practical project work.
What will I study?
The programme will be offered on a full-time basis over one academic semester (September -12 weeks). To be eligible for the award of Postgraduate Certificate in Hospitality Management, candidates must successfully complete modules to a total of 30 ECTS.
- Performance & Revenue Management
- IT for Hospitality
- Business Analytics Fundamentals
- Global Business & International HRM
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.
- Optional
- A module you may choose to study.
- Required
- A module that you must study if you choose this course (or subject).
- Semester
- Most courses have 2 semesters (aka terms) per year.
Year 1 (30 Credits)
RequiredSC6101: Global Business and International HRM
SC6101: Global Business and International HRM
Semester 1 | Credits: 10
We exist in a global business world today, and it could be argued that no other industry sectors are more global that the hospitality and tourism sectors. The success of all businesses is based on the quality of its people management strategy and its ability to show leadership so as to maximise organisational performance, whilst valuing and rewarding their contributions. This module presents an overview on the concepts and theories of globalization and explores the response of the hospitality industry to global and economic pressures from a human resource management perspective. In particular, the cycle of recruitment, selection, reward, employment terms and conditions, development and retention strategies in an international context will be discussed with respect to the corporate social responsibilities of the business.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Understand, analyse and critically evaluate how globalization and international forces shape and impact organisational design, structures, processes and strategies.
- Understand, analyse and critically evaluate the nature of employment in a global industry such as the structure and characteristics of the international hotel industry.
- Understand, analyse and critically explore the process of employee resourcing and development with respect to planning, recruitment, selection, retention and rewarding of the the workforce.
- Understand, analyse and critically evaluate the employment relationship with particular emphasis on quality in the workplace, learning and development, employee wellbeing and the corporate social responsibilities of the organisation.
- Understand, analyse and critically evaluate the importance of International Human Resource Management (IHRM) as a critical managerial function within and across Multinational Enterprises (MNE's).
Assessments
- Department-based Assessment (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
The above information outlines module SC6101: "Global Business and International HRM" and is valid from 2025 onwards.Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredSC6102: Information Technology for Hospitality
SC6102: Information Technology for Hospitality
Semester 1 | Credits: 5
The objective of this module is to equip hospitality business leaders with Information Technology knowledge, awareness and skills to inform business decisions and practices.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Develop an understanding of information systems, cloud services, and solutions for guest-facing applications, devices and connectivity.
- Explore new research and developments in the area of digital transformation, AI integration and service automation.
- Develop and integrate new platform, multimedia and design skills to create a digital project.
- Explore and enhance your competence and understanding of digital competences for the workplace and AI tools for business.
Assessments
- Department-based Assessment (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
The above information outlines module SC6102: "Information Technology for Hospitality" and is valid from 2025 onwards.Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredSC6120: Business Analytics Fundamentals
SC6120: Business Analytics Fundamentals
Semester 1 | Credits: 5
Business Analytics is the process by which businesses use statistical methods and technologies for analysing historical data to gain new insight and improve strategic decision-making. This module introduces studetns to a range of business-analytic concepts, methodologies, techniques, and practices typically employed in a range of business contexts that turn Data into information.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Evaluate the role and importance of Business Analytics as a key strategic function supporting decision-making activities.
- Locate Business Analytics in the wider context of Business Intelligence, Data Mining and Predictive Analytics.
- 3. Evaluate the pillars of analytics: Descriptive, Predictive and Prescriptive Analytics.
- Explore industry-standard frameworks (eg. CRISP_DM) used in knowledge discovery and business analytics projects and apply this to a large data set.
- Explore and apply a range of statistical concepts and techniques to real-world data sets.
- Learn how to utilise a range of popular tools (commercial and Open Source for analysing data sets (eg. Microsoft Excel, KNIME Data Analytics Platform).
Assessments
- Department-based Assessment (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
The above information outlines module SC6120: "Business Analytics Fundamentals" and is valid from 2025 onwards.Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredSC6103: Performance and Revenue Management
SC6103: Performance and Revenue Management
Semester 1 | Credits: 10
The objective of this module is to develop the skills necessary to appraise financial and non-financial performance in a hospitality organisation, along with the ability to devise revenue management strategies to improve an organisation's performance.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Recognise the performance information needs of users in hospitality and other business contexts and understand the key performance indicators in the hospitality sector.
- Appraise and interpret the financial performance and contrast performance with competitors and assess the non-financial performance of a business and consider different performance measurement models.
- Understand the importance of cost control and recommend cost reduction strategies in different business situations.
- Understand the modern role of revenue management in the hospitality sector and its importance in business decision making.
- Apply Revenue Management models and tools to help implement strategies to improve business performance.
Assessments
- Department-based Assessment (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
The above information outlines module SC6103: "Performance and Revenue Management" and is valid from 2025 onwards.Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
- Specialised Focus on Data-Driven Hospitality Management
The programme emphasises performance and revenue management, business analytics fundamentals, and IT for hospitality—equipping students with analytical and technology-focused skills that are increasingly essential in the modern hospitality sector. - Global HR and Industry-Recognised Certification
Students gain insights into human resource management in an international context and have the opportunity to earn CHIA (Certified Hotel Industry Analytics) certification, adding a valuable credential to their professional profile. - Immersive, Industry-Engaged Learning Experience
The course blends academic study with real-world exposure through field trips, guest speakers, experiential learning activities, and industry projects, offering a practical understanding of contemporary hospitality operations.
Completing this PgCert can significantly boost your career by strengthening your expertise in key areas such as revenue management, business analytics, global HRM, and hospitality technology. These specialised skills are highly sought after in roles focused on performance improvement, data-informed decision-making, and operational leadership within the hospitality sector.
The programme’s strong industry connections - through field trips, guest speakers, CHIA certification, and hands-on project work - also help you expand your professional network and gain insights from experienced industry professionals. Whether you are aiming to advance in your current role, move into a management position, or progress to further postgraduate study, this qualification provides a solid platform for career development in the global hospitality industry.
How will I learn?
Group projects and collaborative activities will enhance your teamwork and communication skills, while individual assignments and the final dissertation will help you develop independence and critical thinking.
Throughout the programme, you will have access to cutting-edge resources, including industry-standard software and real-world datasets, to support your learning and professional growth.
How Will I Be Assessed?
Continuous Assessment - Regular coursework, including essays, presentations, in-class tests, portfolios and research.
At Shannon College of Hotel Management, research underpins our commitment to advancing knowledge and best practice in the global hospitality and business sectors. Our faculty and postgraduate students engage in applied and industry-relevant research that explores innovation, sustainability, leadership, and customer experience within hospitality management.
Course queries:
loraine.kavanagh@universityofgalway.ie
sarah.omahony@universityofgalway.ie
Programme Director(s):
Loraine Kavanagh
Lecturer (above the bar)
Shannon College of Hotel Management
E: loraine.kavanagh@universityofgalway.ie
T: 091 497238
Q: Where will my classes takeplace?
A: All modules at taught on the Shannon College Campus located at Shannon International Airport, Shannon. Co Clare
Q: How can I pay my fees?
A: Please visit the fees section of the website to learn more about fee payments.
Q. Can I study online?
A: This programme programme is currently not available online but we do have some excellent Continue Professional Development Programmes that are available online- Take a look at our CPD page to learn more
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).
This programme builds on students’ existing experience while gaining the advanced skills and knowledge needed to lead and innovate in today’s businesses and hospitality industry.
Candidates who have completed professional training (certified &/or in-house) while gaining extensive experience in the areas of business and hospitality are eligible for consideration.
Graduates of the Postgraduate Certificate in Hospitality Management will be able to:
- Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of core business disciplines, including strategy, finance, marketing, and leadership, within both hospitality and wider organisational contexts.
- Evaluate complex business and management challenges, and formulate effective, evidence-based solutions to drive sustainable organisational success.
- Apply advanced analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills across diverse business environments.
- Retrieve, interpret, and synthesise a range of data and research sources to support informed, strategic decision-making.
- Adapt and innovate in response to emerging business trends, technological developments, and global market dynamics.
- Reflect critically on personal and professional development, exhibiting the capacity for lifelong learning, self-assessment, and career progression across a wide range of business and leadership roles.
Accreditations & Awards
Meet our Employers
Entry Requirements and Fees
Minimum Entry Requirements
Official qualifications and exam results (transcripts) to date: required for all non-University of Galway applicants and for University of Galway graduates who did not receive their undergraduate degrees from University of Galway. Applicants who have still to graduate must upload an interim transcript (of results to date) and upload final transcripts on receipt.
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 band less than 5.5) or equivalent.
More information on English language test equivalency is 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 2026/27
| Course Type | Year | EU Tuition | Student Contribution | Non-EU Tuition | Levy | Total Fee | Total EU Fee | Total Non-EU Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PG Cert | 1 | €4,050 | €7,150 | €70 | €4,120 | €7,220 |
For 26/27 entrants, where the course duration is greater than 1 year, there is an inflationary increase approved of 1.8% per annum for continuing years fees.
Postgraduate students in receipt of a SUSI grant – please note an F4 grant is where SUSI will pay €4,500 towards your tuition (2026/27). 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.
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
Bringing your career to the next level
The Postgraduate Certificate in Hospitality Management is designed for those with hospitality and/or business qualifications and/or experience who wish to develop their knowledge of hospitality systems, trends, and business applications to an advanced level. The programme is designed as a specialist course for students who wish to further develop their skills and knowledge in areas such as revenue management, human resource management in a global setting, and business analytics. Modules include: Performance & Revenue Management, IT for Hospitality, Business Analytics Fundamentals, and Global Business & International HRM.
Shannon College PG Prospectus 2025







