Commerce / Business Studies

A Commerce or Business Studies degree gives you a broad grounding in how organisations operate, covering areas such as accounting, economics, marketing, management, and business law. In the first two years you build core knowledge across all these disciplines before choosing a specialisation — such as finance, human resource management, marketing, or international business — in years three and four. Most programmes include significant group projects, case studies, and presentations that mirror real workplace demands. Many universities offer a Erasmus or international exchange semester, and some programmes include a work placement year. A typical week combines lectures, tutorials, and group work, with increasing independent research as you progress.

Entry is typically through the CAO and requires a Leaving Certificate with a minimum of six subjects, including English and Maths (Ordinary level at minimum, though Higher-level Maths can strengthen your application and may be required for certain finance specialisations). Points requirements at universities such as UCD, UCC, and DCU are generally competitive to highly competitive depending on the institution and programme. Useful Leaving Certificate subjects include Accounting, Business, Economics, and Mathematics at Higher level. If you do not meet direct entry requirements, a relevant QQI Level 5 or Level 6 PLC award in Business Studies or a related area can provide a progression route into Year 1 of many programmes. Mature student applicants (aged 23 or over) may apply through the mature student CAO pathway, and access schemes such as HEAR and DARE are available for eligible applicants.

Commerce and business graduates in Ireland enjoy strong employment prospects, with most finding graduate-level roles within six to twelve months of graduating. Starting salaries typically range from approximately €28,000 to €38,000 gross per annum, with significant growth potential as you gain experience and professional qualifications. Ireland's position as a European hub for multinational corporations in finance, tech, and pharma means ongoing demand for well-rounded business graduates. Specialising in high-demand areas such as data analytics, financial technology, or sustainability can further enhance your prospects.