Experience a business degree with a difference- where practical learning meets global opportunity
From day one, you will gain real-world skills through hands-on training in hospitality operations, rotating across key departments. A full year of paid work placement in leading European and Irish hotels builds on this foundation, immersing you in industry practice. Back on campus, your business knowledge deepens with modules in management, finance, marketing, and human resource management -alongside continued language development. Your journey concludes with an international trainee management placement, connecting you directly with top hotel brands worldwide. This is more than a degree- it’s a career-focused education designed to launch you into global business leadership in hospitality and a wide range of different industries. 

Year 1: Study at Shannon College of Hotel Management  

Professional, practical training forms an essential part of the Year 1 studies as students rotate between seven professional classes every two/three weeks. Business modules such as Financial & Management Accounting, Marketing and Quantitative Methods are also introduced. Students study their second language (French, German, Spanish, English or Intercultural Communication). 
 
Year 2: Professional Operative Work Placement  
 
The Year 2 work placement is a 12 month paid professional operative work placement in leading European/Irish hotels to reinforce the training in Year 1 and improve knowledge of industry practice and systems.  
 
Year 3: Study at Shannon College of Hotel Management  
 
In Year 3, students advance from their practical training and their introduction to business in Year 1 and instead focus on modules improving their industry knowledge, such as Rooms Division Management, and Business & Hospitality Law. Their language modules are continued and more advanced business modules such as Management , Human Resource Management, Information Technology and Business Finance are studied. 
 
Year 4: Study at Shannon College of Hotel Management  
 
Students concentrate on advanced general business modules such as Performance Management & Control and Revenue Management. Important strategic areas such as Entrepreneurship and Strategic Management prepare students for their future careers in hotel management. In Year 4, students will have the opportunity to choose elective subjects in both semesters. Electives include, Advanced Culinary Studies, Facilities Management, Event Management, Language and Hotel Asset Management.

End of Year 4: Trainee Management Work Placement 
 
At the end of Year 4, students commence a paid trainee management work placement for at least 9 months until graduation (normally a 12-18 month contract). International hotel companies visit Shannon College to recruit students onto management development programmes or as direct hires in properties around the world. At the end of the work placement, students complete a Viva Voce examination before graduating.

Curriculum Information

• The opportunity to gain international work experience as part of your degree programme.
• Develop high demand practical and professional skills.
• Combine your passion for the hospitality industry with a full business degree.
• Launch straight into your global career with the confidence of a 100% employment record. 
• Join a Global Alumni network with industry connections across every continent.

Our BBS (International Hotel Management) launches graduates into exciting careers across the globe; from five-star properties in Europe to luxury resorts in Asia and the Americas. With a 100 % employment record, our alumni step straight into management-track roles with leading global hotel companies. Many begin on paid trainee-management programmes and quickly progress into leadership positions in operations, revenue, and strategy. If you want a business degree that pairs real-world experience with international mobility, this is the perfect degree for you.  

Our BBS (International Hotel Management) equips you with the sought-after skills today’s hospitality and business employers desire: 

• Hands-on leadership: The paid work placements built into the degree programme hone decision-making under real operational pressure.
• Global business acumen: Finance, marketing, HR, and strategic management tailored to hospitality.
• Revenue & data analytics: Mastering the metrics that drive profitability and asset value.
• Multilingual & intercultural fluency: Study French, German, Spanish, English or Intercultural Communication for global opportunities.
• Entrepreneurial mindset: Modules in strategy, revenue and entrepreneurship prepare you to identify and seize new market opportunities.
• Professional resilience: Versatility and problem-solving built through rotating roles and diverse international settings. 

Whether you aim to become a general manager, director of finance, open your own business, or consult on global hospitality projects the BBS (International Hotel Management) gives you the expertise and industry connections to build a successful, worldwide career. 

Your Global Classroom- Learn by Living It! 
With international placements built into your degree, the BBS (International Hotel Management) gives you the chance to live, learn, and work in exciting destinations around the world. These experiences are more than just travel; they are your opportunity to grow professionally, personally, and culturally. 

Your International Experience 
You will complete two major placements during your degree, both offering paid, real-world experience: 

• Year 2: Operative Placement 
  Spend 12 months working in a top hotel in Europe. This paid placement builds your confidence, hones your practical skills, and gives you your first taste of working in the global hospitality industry.
• End of Year 4: Trainee Management Placement
  After your final exams, you’ll step into a management-training programme for 9–18 months in one of our partner hotels. Many students take this opportunity to work in destinations like the USA, UAE, Switzerland, the UK, or Asia-Pacific, often leading to full-time roles after graduation.
• Opportunities for summers working abroad:
  Students may also avail of summer overseas work opportunities.
  

Why This Experience Will Change Your Life 

By the time you graduate, you will have: 

• Worked full time in the global hospitality industry gaining at least 21 months of international experience.
• Improved your language and communication skills, both socially and professionally.
• Built a global network of contacts and mentors in the hospitality industry.
• Learned how to adapt, thrive, and lead in cross-cultural environments.
• Grown in independence and confidence, ready to step into leadership roles worldwide. 

This isn’t just a degree; it’s your passport to a global career in international hospitality and business. Are you ready to pack your bags and take the first step?

Year 2: Professional Operative Work Placement  

12 months (July – June)  

What will I do on placement?  
The placement is a professional operative placement, which reinforces the practical training and language studies of Year one. Students gain experience in at least two departments and will be working at operative level. The work experience improves students’ knowledge of industry practice and systems. Students are paid by the hotel and wages vary from country to country.  

Where will I be placed?
This year the placement partner hotels are located in France, Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg, Spain, Ireland and the UK. A student’s foreign language option and visa requirements determine the placement country. Students benefit both professionally and personally from their work experience during this year. 

How will I be placed?  
The Shannon College Placement Office organises the work placements on behalf of students. Most hotels require an interview and students are prepared for hotel interviews through the Skills for Work Life module in Year 1. Language skills and performance in Year 1 are considered by hotels and Shannon College in finalising placements. Placement locations are generally announced after Year 1 examinations in May. 
 
Erasmus Funding 
Students may be eligible to receive an Erasmus Mobility Grant to support the Year 2 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.

Practice Education  
All students are required to successfully complete 21 months of Paid Work Placement as part of their degree programme. This is broken down into 2 structured work placements.   

• Year 2:  12 Months 
• End of Year 4: 9 months  

Location 
Year 2 placements take place in Europe and the Final Placement offers Global Opportunities across the world. 

Irish Hospitality Institute (IHI)  
In addition to graduating with a Bachelor of Business Studies in International Hotel Management , the Irish Hospitality Institute (IHI) also awards a full professional membership to the Shannon College graduates.  

Industry Recognition 
Shannon College is a member of the International Council on Hotel, Restaurant and Institutional Education (International CHRIE) , the global advocate of hospitality and tourism education for schools, colleges and universities offering programmes in hotel and restaurant management, food service management and culinary arts.

• 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 Bachelor of Business Studies (BBS) in International Hotel Management at Shannon College of Hotel Management is designed to develop students’ expertise in global hospitality management while fostering leadership, cultural awareness, and critical thinking skills. The learning experience is dynamic and internationally focused, combining business theory with hands-on application through practical training and professional placements. With two integrated work placements students gain real-world experience international hospitality environments, preparing them for successful global careers in the international hotel and tourism industry and many other sectors.  

How Will I Learn? 

1. Hands-on Practical Learning 
   The Bachelor of Business Studies in International Hotel Management combines academic excellence with real-world application. Students engage in hands-on learning through practical modules in areas such as food and beverage service, front office operations, Culinary , Accommodation Services and Skills for Worklife developing key operational and managerial skills essential for success in the hospitality industry.
2. Guest Lectures from Global Industry Leaders
   Throughout the programme, students benefit from regular guest lectures delivered by leading professionals from the global hospitality, tourism and business sectors. These sessions provide valuable industry insights, current trends, and networking opportunities, connecting students directly with international experts and future employers.
3. Paid Work Placements
   A distinctive feature of the programme is its two integrated paid work placements.  These placements in prestigious hotels offer students the opportunity to apply their knowledge in real-world settings, develop professional competencies, and gain invaluable experience in international hospitality environments.
4. Language Immersion and intercultural communication  
   Language and communication skills are a key component of the programme, supporting students in developing fluency and confidence in a second language or enhancing their intercultural communication skills. This focus prepares graduates to thrive in diverse, international hospitality settings where cross-cultural understanding is essential. 

How Will I Be Assessed? 

Continuous Assessment 
Assessment is ongoing throughout the programme and includes a variety of methods such as individual and group assignments, presentations, in-class tests, language exercises, and practical evaluations. Students receive regular feedback to support their academic and professional development. 

Examinations 
Formal examinations are held at the end of each academic semester in Years 1, 3, and 4. Depending on the module, these may be written or practical in format and are designed to assess theoretical understanding and applied knowledge. 

Oral Assessments 
Certain modules include oral components, such as presentations, language assessments, and evaluations related to placement preparation and reflection. These develop students’ communication and public speaking skills, which are essential in the hospitality industry and business in general. 

Project Work 
During Year 2, students complete a project as part of their placement assessment. This allows them to reflect on their professional experience, apply theoretical knowledge, and demonstrate critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. 

Professional Development 
While not formally assessed, professional development is an integral part of the programme and is fostered throughout the student journey. Through practical training, placements, group work, and industry engagement, students continuously build key professional skills such as leadership, communication, adaptability, and cultural awareness, essential for success in international business management.  

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 Bachelor Business Studies in International Hotel Management (BBS)and the Bachelor of Commerce in International Hotel Management (BComm)?   

A: The BBS and BComm are very similar courses. Both are Level 8 business degrees and students spend Years 1, 2, 3 and Final Year Placement studying and working together. In Year 4, the BBS students study at Shannon College and focus on general business and advanced hospitality modules and developing strategic hotel management skills. In Year 4, the BComm students study on the Galway Campus, specialising in one business discipline. The BComm students do not take any hotel management modules during Year 4. 

Q: Can I transfer between the two programmes offered at Shanonn College ?  

A: BBS students who wish to transfer to the BComm must achieve a minimum grade average of 70% in Year 1 examinations. Transfer requests must be made in writing to the Programme Leader prior to enrolling in Year 3. The number of transfer places available is limited each year. 2. 

BComm students who wish to transfer to the BBS must pass all modules in Year 1 examinations. Transfer requests must be made in writing to the Programme Leader prior to enrolling in Year 3. 

Q. Do graduates of this programme only work in Hotels ?

A: Shannon College graduates have made their mark not only in the hotel, tourism and travel industries but also in other fields such as law, accounting, banking and IT etc. The professional management education at Shannon College gives graduates the grounding to become business leaders in a host of different industries. There are many graduates who operate at the highest level and hold prominent positions in Irish and global hotel properties and companies. 

Q: Is it essential to have studied Business or Accounting before applying ?  

A: Many students have not studied any business subjects before starting their degree at Shannon College and the course is designed with this in mind. All the business modules start from the beginning. Tutorials are also provided in smaller groups to offer additional support.  

Q: Will I study on the Shannon or Galway Campus ?  

A: All lectures are delivered on the Shannon Campus located next to Shannon International airport in Co Clare. 

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
• Mature Students
• Access and Foundation programmes
• HEAR Scheme
• DARE Scheme 

Other Qualifications 

If you are a school leaver presenting results other than Leaving Cert results, please review the entry requirements relevant to you:  

• A Level students
• International Baccalaureate students 
• EU students 

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 2025/2026

• 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 €3,000 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 3.4% 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.

Uniforms  
Students will be required to purchase a set of uniforms for this programme. This includes college business suit, restaurant uniform, chef uniform, accommodation services uniform, kitchen knives and kitchen safety shoes. (€676.40 for 2023/2024)  

Funding : 

Erasmus Funding  

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.

University of Galway Excellence Scholarship 

University of Galway is a globally focused research-led university, internationally renowned for the quality and impact of our teaching, research and innovation.  We strive for excellence and impact, underpinned by integrity and professionalism. As part of University of Galway's commitment to rewarding achievement and supporting ambition, our academic scholarship scheme for new entrant undergraduate students; the University of Galway Excellence Scholarship, is awarded each year.Students may also avail of summer overseas work opportunities

About the Scholarship: 
Awardees of the scholarship will receive €1,500 in recognition of their academic success. 

Scholarship Awarding: 
The University of Galway Excellence Scholarships will be awarded to high achieving entrants to the full-time degree courses offered by University of Galway, commencing in 2025. A total of 2 scholarships will be awarded to students at Shannon Collee of Hotel Management.  Scholarships will be awarded based on the results of the Leaving Certificate or A Level exams examinations taken in any one year in the Republic of Ireland or Northern Ireland. 

International Student Scholarships: 

Shannon College Hospitality Rising Star Scholarship  
This 50% scholarship will be awarded to the undergraduate student who shows exceptional passion and commitment to succeed in the hospitality industry. Apply Here  

Shannon College Global Achievement Scholarship  

This €2000 scholarship will be awarded to the undergraduate students who achieves excellent academic results and demonstrates their commitment to achieving excellence during their Shannon College Interview. 

There is no additional application process for this scholarship . If you hold an offer for an Undergraduate programme at Shannon College of Hotel Management you will be considered for this scholarship. 

Application Process 

Students applying for full undergraduate degree programmes from outside of the European Union (EU), and who are liable for full non-EU tuition fees, should apply directly to Shannon College of Hotel Management.  

Our applications open on the 1st October each year for the following September.  

How to Apply  

International applications for Undergraduate programmes at Shannon College of Hotel Management can be made directly to the admissions office at Shannon College of Hotel Management. Applying is very simple and FREE.  

• Complete International Application Form which you can download here and return to Ms Joan Markham- joan.markham@universityofgalway.ie

Please include the following supporting documents with your application. 

• Certified transcripts of all educational results/qualifications to date 
• IELTS certificate (or equivalent) 
• A copy of your passport

Please contact Joan Markham – Admissions Officer - joan.markham@universityofgalway.ie if you have any queries or need more information