University College Cork

The MSc Accounting and Performance Analytics at University College Cork (UCC) blends management accounting with information systems and analytics to help you make better financial and operational decisions using data.

What you’ll focus on

• Management accounting, performance management, and risk and control concepts used in real organisations.
• Practical skills in programming fundamentals, database design, and business data visualisation.
• How information systems support reporting, planning, and decision-making.
• Professional accounting body exemptions may be available (subject to module choice and results).

Professional exemptions are awarded independently by the relevant bodies and may change with syllabus updates.

Duration: 12 months (full-time) Credits: 90 ECTS (typical for a 12-month MSc) Delivery: On-campus (UCC) Programme type: Conversion MSc (for non-accounting graduates) Language of instruction: English Professional exemptions: Potential exemptions may be available from CIMA, ACCA and CAI (subject to module choice and results) Industrial experience: The programme may offer the opportunity for a short industrial internship (where available) Start dates: Check the UCC programme website for the current intake Application deadlines: Check the UCC programme website for the current intake

Programme Structure

This 12-month MSc is delivered full-time and combines core accounting modules with information systems and analytics training.

Indicative modules include:

• Performance Management, Risk and Control
• Programming for Business
• Analysis of Accounting Information
• Database Analysis and Design
• Databases for Management Information Systems

Capstone / assessment

Assessment is typically based on a combination of coursework, problem-based assignments, and data/analysis tasks aligned with the programme learning outcomes. Exact assessment formats and module availability can vary by intake—please confirm details on the UCC programme page.

Curriculum notes

• Module selection may affect the professional accounting body exemptions you can receive.
• Some modules may include practical work using business datasets and reporting/visualisation techniques.

Admission requirements

Academic background

• Applicants must hold a primary honours degree (NFQ Level 8) with a minimum Second Class Honours (Grade II).
• This programme is a conversion MSc for graduates from any discipline except accounting.
• It is not intended for applicants whose prior degree includes high levels of software development and management accounting (for example, certain Business Information Systems or Accounting degrees).

English language requirements

• IELTS (Academic): 6.5 overall (or equivalent).
• TOEFL iBT: 90 overall (or equivalent).
• PTE Academic: 63 overall (or equivalent).
• Duolingo English Test: 120 overall (or equivalent).
• Oxford Test of English (OTE): 140 overall (or equivalent).

Required documents (typical)

• Academic transcripts and degree certificate (or evidence of completion).
• Passport/ID.
• English test results (where required).
• Curriculum vitae (CV) and/or statement of purpose (if requested by UCC).
• Any additional documents requested by the admissions office.

Deadlines and intake: Application deadlines and start dates vary by intake. Please check the UCC programme website for the most up-to-date dates.

Work rights after graduation (Ireland)

Check for any work restrictions

International students who graduate from an eligible programme in Ireland may be able to apply for a post-study work permission, subject to meeting the Irish immigration requirements at the time of application.

• Typical eligibility: You must have completed your programme and hold the appropriate immigration permission to study in Ireland during your studies.
• Duration: Post-study work permissions are granted for a limited period (the exact duration depends on the programme level and the rules in force at the time).
• Application timing: You must apply within the permitted timeframe after graduation and before your current permission expires.
• Conditions: You must continue to meet all eligibility criteria and provide any required documentation (e.g., proof of graduation and identity documents).

Important: Immigration rules can change. Always verify the latest requirements with the Irish immigration authorities and your university’s international student office before planning your next steps.