NCI Blog

With nearly 75 years’ of experience in providing practical, career-focused management education, and a faculty made up of seasoned educators and international business professionals, the Master of Business Administration (MBA) at National College of Ireland offers real advantages for both your career and personal growth.

But with so many MBA options available to interested students in Dublin, what makes the MBA programme at NCI stand out?

We spoke with Dr Breda McTaggart, Dean of Business at National College of Ireland, to get answers to the most frequently asked questions about the MBA.

What is unique about the NCI MBA?

The programme is built to shape strategic thinkers who are both creative and articulate, with strong analytical abilities and interpersonal skills- leaders who can thrive in a global business environment.

Today’s organisations seek individuals who are not just value creators but also game changers - and we believe the MBA at NCI prepares graduates to meet that challenge exceptionally well.

What topics are covered by the NCI MBA?

The MBA offers a comprehensive foundation in management theory, combined with a strong emphasis on practical application through real-world case studies and scenarios.

Students can tailor their learning through a diverse selection of electives in areas such as marketing and international business, human resource management, entrepreneurship, and information technology.

In the final semester, participants also take part in a dynamic management simulation, where they navigate a real-life business challenge - from concept to market - using cutting-edge technology to integrate and apply the knowledge gained throughout the programme.

Our MBA Hub outlines everything you need to know about the programme, including course content, how to apply and student testimonials. Visit NCI MBA Hub to learn more.

Who is the NCI MBA designed for?

The MBA is aimed at people who have gained high-quality work experience, but who are at a relatively early stage in their career. Essentially, the programme is suitable for people who want to increase their knowledge of business and management to:

• Enhance their existing career and accelerate their promotion prospects
• Change career by changing function or industry
• Start their own business

What are the entry requirements?

Applicants are required to hold a minimum of a 2.2 honours degree in either a cognate or non-cognate area at level 8 on the National Framework of Qualifications and a minimum of three years’ work experience, ideally but not necessarily, in management.

Admission may be granted to candidates with less than three years work experience if they can demonstrate superior academic credentials and outstanding evidence of management through professional and personal experiences.

The college operates a Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning (RPEL) scheme, meaning that non-graduates with extensive professional experience and other prior qualifications may also be considered for the course.

What are the benefits of the NCI MBA for students?

At NCI, our MBA programme will provide you with a strong theoretical foundation in the broader disciplines of management as well as focusing on the practical application of theory in real world settings and cases.

You will be exposed to the latest thinking in the core disciplines of enterprise, leadership, organisational management, people management, strategy, decision-making, management of financial resources and economics.

What is the typical profile of an MBA participant?

MBA students at National College of Ireland come from a broad spectrum of industries, but they all share a common goal – a strong drive to succeed and advance their careers, whether by stepping into senior leadership roles or launching their own ventures.

We’ve found that students from every sector gain immense value from the diverse insights and experiences of their peers.

To give you a sense of who takes on the MBA journey at NCI, here’s a snapshot of a recent class profile.

• Chief Financial Officer, working for an Infrastructure Group
• Business Development Manager, working in the Development Sector
• Client Services Manager, working in Financial Services
• Director of Operations and Supply Chain, working in the Food Sector
• Graphic Designer, working for a Not-For-Profit

A key feature of the MBA is the stimulating and varied international participant mix. Each year approximately 85% of the class come from Ireland, with the remaining 15% made up of participants from different countries.

Further information can be found on our MBA Student Profile page.

"How the MBA Helped Me Achieve My Career Ambitions". Read NCI Alumni Alan Roche's story as he explains how the MBA gave him the confidence and credibility to lead and drive the growth and success of his organisation. Read Alan's Story.

What is the average age group of participants on the MBA programme?

The average age profile ranges from late 20s through to mid-50s.

Any final words for someone considering doing the MBA programme at NCI?

While the MBA programme will challenge you, it will also inspire you and give you confidence to move forward in your career. Put simply, an MBA is a milestone in both your personal and professional development.

We hope to see you in September!

Still have questions about the MBA at National College of Ireland? Come along to  our upcoming "Virtual Taste of an MBA" event on Thursday 29th May 2025, or email our Admissions team at admissions@ncirl.ie.