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International Accounting and Analytics (MSc) - Pathway B (Spring Intake)
International Accounting and Analytics - Pathway B (MSc)
College of Business, Public Policy & Law, J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics- Title of Award
- Master of Science
- Course Code
- MSC-MIAB
- Average Intake
- 25
- Delivery
- On Campus
- NFQ
- Level 9
- Award Type
- Major
- Next Intake
- September 2025
- Duration
- 1 year, full-time
- ECTS Weighting
- 90
Why Choose This Course?
Course Information
The MSc International Accounting and Analytics - Pathway B is a fast-track, seven-month programme that begins in January, offering a streamlined academic experience for fully exam-qualified accountants. Thanks to Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), students are exempted from Semester 1 and complete 45 credits of the 90-credit master's through advanced modules and immersive learning experiences.
As part of the module AY5141 Accounting and Management Control for Sustainable Organizations, students participate in a unique three-week virtual collaboration with peers from Groningen, Ghent, and Galway. Working in multicultural teams, students explore key topics in management control of innovation and sustainability - reflecting the realities of today’s global, digitised workforce.
Students engage with a dynamic blend of accounting, analytics, and strategic communication modules and attend two Summer Schools in May/June.
Programme Schedule
- January-May: Core and Elective taught modules delivered through lectures, workshops, and interactive sessions
- May-June: Two intensive Summer Schools*
In 2025 students participated in:
- Financing Net Zero - delivered by Barry Gavin
This summer school aims to provide students with the ability to hold their own with professionals working in the Sustainability sector in terms understanding the Concepts, Language, Structures, Process, Risks, Challenges and Opportunities, essential to navigate the sector. Through real-world case studies and expert-led discussions, participants develop a clear understanding of how finance enables the transition to Net Zero. - Disruptive Technologies - delivered by Sharon Cotter and Natasha Caulfield
This module aims to familiarise students with a range of contemporary issues that influence how businesses operate, and how management both accounts for the stewardship of the business, and, assesses the management of organisational performance and how this is affected by disruptive technologies currently utilised in the running of organisations including robotic process automation, machine learning/AI, cybersecurity and data analytics. Students will get an opportunity during this workshop to learn how to create a digital robot. Guest speakers in 2025 included Prof Michael Madden, School of Computer Science, who discussed Co-creating with Generative AI and Aine Nola, CFO Microsoft Ireland, who delved into Disruptive Technology and Finance.
*Summer School topics may vary from year to year.
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 (90 Credits)
RequiredRPL045: Recognised Prior Learning
RPL045: Recognised Prior Learning
Semester 1 and Semester 2 | Credits: 45
Assessments
- Continuous Assessment (100%)
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredAY5141: Accounting and Management Control for Sustainable Organizations
AY5141: Accounting and Management Control for Sustainable Organizations
Semester 2 | Credits: 5
To address the grand challenge of sustainable global development and innovation, management need effective decision-making processes and suitable tools to measure the multiple dimensions of performance. Topics covered in this course include the types of management control practices adopted by organisations, key issues in performance measurement incorporating triple bottom line outcomes, the role of financial and nonfinancial data in decision-making processes, divisional performance evaluation and transfer pricing mechanisms.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Apply management accounting techniques to prepare information for decision making.
- Critically analyse the usefulness of financial and non-financial information for management decision making.
- Appraise the tools available for measuring and managing the multiple dimensions of performance that need to be reported to different stakeholder groups.
Assessments
- Written Assessment (80%)
- Continuous Assessment (20%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
The above information outlines module AY5141: "Accounting and Management Control for Sustainable Organizations" and is valid from 2023 onwards.Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredAY5128: Summer Schools in A&F: Contemporary Global Issues
AY5128: Summer Schools in A&F: Contemporary Global Issues
Trimester 3 | Credits: 20
The objective of this module is to familiarise students with a range of contemporary global issues that influence how businesses operate, and how management both accounts for the stewardship of the business, and, assesses the management of organisational performance. This module will involve opportunities for students to gain a deeper understanding of these matters and be able to critically assess the implications these issues have for businesses and performance measurement. The module also aims to broaden students’ skills in assessing organisational performance.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Critically evaluate a range of contemporary global issues in accounting & finance.
- Appraise the opportunities and challenges these issues pose to businesses (either generally or specific to the circumstances outlined in a given scenario) in accounting for the stewardship of the business, and, in measuring performance.
- Examine and synthesise ways in which businesses (either in general or specific to a set of circumstances outlined in a given scenario) could deal with the opportunities and challenges presented by specific global contemporary issues.
Assessments
- Continuous Assessment (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
The above information outlines module AY5128: "Summer Schools in A&F: Contemporary Global Issues" and is valid from 2020 onwards.Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredAY5121: Analytical and Communication Skills Development
AY5121: Analytical and Communication Skills Development
Semester 2 | Credits: 5
The objective of this module is to develop students’ skills for a transformed
accounting and finance profession. While technical skills remain critical,
accountants are increasing expected to demonstrate robust
communication, presentation and analytical skills. This module is designed to
address these requirements and thus develop students’ employability skills.
Excel is extensively used within the accounting profession, however many users
only use a limited range of features. Covering more advanced Excel techniques
makes users more productive and efficient. Transforming huge volumes of
complex data into useful insights is a challenge for all organisations,
Tableau enables users to build visual representations of the analysis conducted to
allow clearer and more succinct communication of key insights.
Advanced Excel and Tableau skills are essential business skills in contemporary organisations, facilitating faster and better decision making.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Analyse complex data sets and present data professionally using Excel.
- Present complex data in a visually compelling an insightful manner using a range of tools, techniques and software including Tableau.
- Analyse data and present insights in a professional format.
- Develop and give a professional oral presentation based on complex data sets.
Assessments
- Continuous Assessment (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
The above information outlines module AY5121: "Analytical and Communication Skills Development" and is valid from 2023 onwards.Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredMS5106: Data Science and Big Data Analytics
MS5106: Data Science and Big Data Analytics
Semester 2 | Credits: 5
This module aims to provide students with knowledge required to become active contributors to big data analytics projects and develop specific skills needed to use and implement big data analytics technology and tools. Topics focus on (i) big data technology and tools: Hadoop, MapReduce, Yarn; (ii) Hadoop ecosystem: HBase, Hive, Pig (iiIi) Spark; (iv) Big data application in businesses; (v) ethical issues around big data; (vi) skills required for the different big data types and projects.
The module focuses on how technologies can be integrated and used an in a business environment through case studies of big data applications.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate detailed understanding of technologies for big data storage and analysis, specifically: big data in AWS/S3 cloud environment, Hadoop, HDFS, MapReduce, and Yarn, Spark, etc.
- Demonstrate understanding of the big data ecosystem technologies, specifically HBase, Hive, Pig, and how these technologies can be integrated into a business intelligence environment.
- Apply analytic techniques and tools to analyse big data, create models, and identify insights that can lead to actionable results.
- Critically reflect on the use of big data in contemporary businesses.
- Understand how several data science techniques can be applied to several business cases and extract value.
- Understand the various analytics skills required in businesses based on their big data usage.
Assessments
- Continuous Assessment (40%)
- Department-based Assessment (60%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
The above information outlines module MS5106: "Data Science and Big Data Analytics" and is valid from 2023 onwards.Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
OptionalMS5129: Storytelling through Data Visualisation
MS5129: Storytelling through Data Visualisation
Semester 2 | Credits: 5
We live in a world increasingly dominated by data. Data are used to make important decisions, to shape business and political policy, and to understand the fundamental workings of nature. But data can be complicated, mysterious, and difficult to understand. It is more important than ever to be able to communicate data in a way that is comprehensible and memorable. This is the essence of data storytelling. Data storytelling is a skill, and the goal of this course is to help you improve this skill. This is a programming-free module taught using different data analysis and visualisation tools.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Explain the psychology of storytelling and visualisations.
- Create impactful data visualisations.
- Apply data visualisation best practices to data stories.
- Construct an engaging and informative story from data.
- Appraise the impact of data storytelling on decision making.
- Apply and evaluate the use of visualisation tools in the context of IS Innovation.
Assessments
- Written Assessment (50%)
- Continuous Assessment (50%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
The above information outlines module MS5129: "Storytelling through Data Visualisation" and is valid from 2025 onwards.Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
OptionalMS5130: Applied Analytics in Business and Society
MS5130: Applied Analytics in Business and Society
Semester 2 | Credits: 5
MS5130 takes an applied approach to data analytics topics, including the processing of various kinds of data, quantitative and qualitative data analysis and interpretation, graphical depiction of data, and the careful and logical documentation of analytics projects. MS5130 approaches these topics from a sociotechnical perspective, i.e., taking into consideration both social and technical aspects. Social aspects are covered through the discussion and application of relevant theories and concepts; technical aspects are covered through the use of the RStudio software tool (including related software packages such as Tidyverse and Quarto).
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Explain the different data types and objects used in statistical programming.
- Develop and test models of business and societal data through statistical programming.
- Install and exploit open source statistical programming packages.
- Combine and reshape multiple datasets.
- Create relevant visualisations using advanced statistical programming plotting packages.
- Use data to identify, analyse, and solve business, policy and societal problems.
Assessments
- Continuous Assessment (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
The above information outlines module MS5130: "Applied Analytics in Business and Society" and is valid from 2025 onwards.Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
OptionalAY5142: Sustainable Accounting, Finance and Governance
AY5142: Sustainable Accounting, Finance and Governance
Semester 2 | Credits: 5
The objectives of the module are twofold: (1) to provide students with a knowledge of sustainability issues within an accounting, finance and governance context; and (2) to stimulate in students an interest in future research that responds to the global challenge of climate change and sustainability. Students will explore common approaches to measuring and reporting corporate sustainability performance. The module will consider how to integrate sustainability-related risks and opportunities into corporate financial decision-making and governance. Students will learn how to critique academic research in the field of sustainable accounting, finance and governance to identify gaps in current knowledge. The module will also introduce students to established research methods in accounting, finance and governance.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Evaluate different approaches to the measurement of corporate sustainability performance.
- Identify regulatory and voluntary frameworks within which sustainability reporting operates.
- Examine how investment and financing decisions can integrate sustainability considerations.
- Appraise established mechanisms for the effective oversight and governance of corporate sustainability.
- Formulate a research proposal that aims to investigate a research question of significance to the sustainable accounting, finance and governance field
Assessments
- Continuous Assessment (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
The above information outlines module AY5142: "Sustainable Accounting, Finance and Governance" and is valid from 2024 onwards.Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
Accelerated format for professionals Complete your master’s in just seven months thanks to exemptions through Recognition of Prior Learning.
Industry-led Summer Schools Learn directly from global firms like KPMG and leading academics through immersive, practitioner-focused sessions.
Real-world analytics expertise Develop hands-on skills in audit analytics, data visualisation, and performance management tailored for accountants.
Sustainability-focused curriculum Explore modules like Sustainable Accounting and Governance, aligning your skills with global ESG priorities.
Career-ready graduates Alumni secure roles in top firms including Deloitte, EY and PwC, with strong demand for analytics-savvy professionals.
Graduates of the MSc International Accounting and Analytics - Pathway B are uniquely positioned to thrive in a rapidly evolving financial landscape where data-driven decision-making is paramount.
Graduates are in high demand across accounting practices like KPMG, Deloitte and PwC, financial services, consultancies in multinationals and global IT firm and in the public sector and NGOs.
Graduate Roles
Typical roles for new graduates include:
- Audit Analytics Specialist
- Financial Data Analyst
- Management Accountant
- Business Intelligence Consultant
- Corporate Finance Associate
Career Progression
With experience, graduates can advance to:
- Finance Transformation Manager
- Head of Performance Analytics
- Director of Strategic Finance
- Partner in Accounting Practice
- Academic Lecturer or Researcher
Skills & Expertise Developed
Employers seek professionals who can:
- Interrogate and interpret complex datasets
- Communicate insights through data visualisation
- Apply analytics to audit, performance, and governance
- Lead digital transformation in finance functions
Modules such as Data Science and Big Data Analytics, Storytelling through Data Visualisation, and Sustainable Accounting and Governance ensure graduates are equipped with the latest tools and thinking.
Emerging Trends & Growth Areas
Analytics in Audit: Increasing demand for professionals who can apply data interrogation to assurance and compliance
ESG Reporting: Sustainability-focused finance roles are expanding rapidly
Digital Finance Transformation: Skills in automation, AI, and cloud-based finance systems are highly sought after
Global Mobility: Graduates are well-prepared for international roles due to the programme’s global focus and industry exposure
Further Study & Academic Pathways
Graduates may progress to:
- PhD programmes in Accounting, Analytics, or Finance
- Academic careers in teaching and research
- Professional development
Programme Director
Dr Patricia Martyn
E: patricia.martyn@universityofgalway.ie
Programme Administrators
Ms Sharon Gilmartin and Ms Tracy Coloe Cloonan
E: accountancy@universityofgalway.ie
Q: Who is this course suitable for?
A: This programme is ideal for early to mid-career accountants who are already qualified members of a recognised professional accountancy body (such as ACCA, CIMA, CPA, ICAI, ICAS, etc.) and want to upskill in analytics and digital technologies. If you're looking to future-proof your career and gain advanced expertise in data-driven accounting, this course is designed for you.
Q: What will I study on this programme?
A: You’ll explore advanced topics in accounting, finance, and analytics, including:
- Accounting & Management Control for Sustainable Organisations
- Data Science and Big Data Analytics
- Analytical & Communication Skills Development
- Sustainable Accounting, Finance and Governance
You’ll also take part in practitioner-led summer schools, where you’ll engage with real-world challenges and learn directly from industry experts.
Q: How is the programme assessed?
A: Assessment methods include exams, individual and group assignments, presentations, and a final applied project or dissertation. These are designed to reflect the practical demands of the profession and help you build confidence in applying your skills.
Q: What kind of practical experience will I gain?
A: You’ll gain hands-on experience with tools like R, Python, SQL, Tableau and learn how to apply analytics in audit, finance, and performance management. The summer schools offer direct exposure to how leading firms use data to drive value.
Q: What roles do graduates go on to?
A: Graduates typically move into roles such as:
- Senior Financial Analyst
- Corporate Finance Consultant
- Audit Manager
- Data Analytics Lead
- Valuations Specialist
- Finance Transformation Advisor
Many alumni have secured senior positions in firms like Deloitte, Grant Thornton, PwC and EYand some progress into leadership roles within months of graduating.
Q: What types of companies hire MSc International Accounting and Analytics graduates?
A: Graduates are recruited by:
- Big Four firms
- Global financial services companies
- Consulting firms
- Tech-driven organisations
- Aircraft leasing and asset management firms
Employers value the unique blend of accounting expertise and analytics capability that this programme delivers.
Q: Are industry connections part of the programme?
A: Yes - very much so. The summer schools are co-designed and delivered with industry leaders, including KPMG and other top firms. You’ll hear directly from professionals using data science and disruptive technologies in their organisations.
Q: What transferable skills will I develop?
A: You’ll build a powerful set of skills, including:
- Advanced data analytics using tools like Tableau and Python
- Strategic thinking for performance management and financial leadership
- Communication and storytelling through data visualisation
- Problem-solving and adaptability in fast-changing environments
- Collaboration and leadership through group projects and industry engagement
These skills are highly valued across sectors and will support your career progression in both practice and industry.
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 is designed to provide early and mid-career accountants with the skills and knowledge needed to engage with big data in a variety of roles in practice and industry.
Candidates who have completed all of the professional accounting examinations and have been admitted as full members by a recognised professional accountancy body including the following: ACCA, CIPFA, CIMA, ICAEW, ICAI, ICAS or other IFAC member body assessed as equivalent by the academic programme director, are eligible for consideration.
Data analysis & interpretation Ability to interrogate large datasets and extract actionable insights using advanced analytics tools.
Strategic decision-making Apply financial and performance data to guide business strategy and operational improvements.
Communication & storytelling Present complex data clearly and persuasively through visualisation and narrative techniques.
Problem-solving & critical thinking Tackle financial and operational challenges using structured, evidence-based approaches.
Digital literacy Proficiency in platforms and tools like R, Python, SQL and Tableau, for modern finance functions.
Leadership & collaboration Work effectively in cross-functional teams and lead initiatives that drive organisational value.
Sustainability awareness Understand ESG principles and integrate sustainable finance practices into decision-making.
Adaptability & innovation Thrive in fast-changing environments by embracing new technologies and methodologies.
These skills prepare graduates for roles in accounting and finance but also in consulting, tech, public sector, and beyond.
Accreditations & Awards
Meet our Employers
Entry Requirements and Fees
Minimum Entry Requirements
Applicants are required to have completed all of the professional accounting examinations and to have been admitted as full members by a recognised professional accountancy body including the following: ACCA, CIPFA, CIMA, ICAEW, ICAI, ICAS or other IFAC member body assessed as equivalent by the academic programme director. A notarised cert of membership must be submitted before an application can be considered.
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 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Masters Full Time | 1 | €7,750 | €13,500 | €140 | €7,890 | €13,640 |
Postgraduate Excellence Scholarships
This scholarship is valued at €1,500 for EU students applying for full-time taught master's postgraduate courses. You will be eligible if:
- You have been accepted to a full-time taught master's course at University of Galway,
- You have attained a first class honours (or equivalent) in a Level 8 primary degree.
An application for the scholarship scheme is required (separate to the application for a place on the programme). The application portal for 2025 is now open and available here. Applications will close on the 30th September 2025. Full details available here.
Global Scholarships
University of Galway offers a range of merit-based scholarships to students from a number of countries outside of the EU. Visit here for schemes currently available.
Business Merit Scholarships
J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics is committed to attracting high calibre students from around the world. We are offering Merit Scholarships across all of our Taught Master's programmes. To be eligible candidates must have achieved a H1 (or international equivalent) in their primary degree and scholarships are offered on a competitive basis. All candidates who meet these criteria and have accepted a place on the programme are automatically considered for a scholarship. Scholarships are awarded up to 50% of the programme tuition fees. Click here to learn more .
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
Transform your accounting career with data-driven expertise
The MSc International Accounting and Analytics - Pathway B at University of Galway empowers qualified accountants to master cutting-edge analytics tools and elevate their strategic impact. With hands-on training, industry-led summer schools, and exemptions through Recognition of Prior Learning, this unique programme bridges accounting excellence with the power of big data.
International Accounting and Analytics - Pathway B Brochure