BA (Hons) Business – Part-time

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  • Course Content
  • Structure
  • Career Opportunities
  • Fees
  • Next Steps
  • General
  • BA (Hons) Business

    BA (Hons) Business | Evening

    Overview

    The BA (Hons) in Business is a four year part-time programme (180 ECTS) offering a flexible curriculum with common first-year subjects followed by specialisation in later years, culminating in a final capstone project. The interdisciplinary programme equips both domestic and international students with core business knowledge, processes, strategies, and transferable skills for a dynamic business environment, preparing them for management roles or further Level 9 study at DBS (including various MSc programmes and the MBA). This programme is aimed at both domestic and international learners who seek an underpinning in key business theories, concepts and business processes, strategies and skills. The programme ensures learners acquire an integrated, balanced, and dynamic business education, enabling the development of business knowledge, including previously acquired knowledge and experience. Graduates will be eligible for junior management roles or higher administrative roles within a specific subfield of business complementing their previous experience and learning.  The part-time programme features four pathways: General Business, Management, Human Resource Management, and Supply Chain Management.

     

     

    On completion of this programme, graduates will be able to effectively demonstrate the following attributes:

    ● Communication Skills

    ● Literacy Skills

    ● Effective communication comprising of clarity of verbal and written material

    ● Independent learning

    ● Capable of synthesising diverse academic theories and practices

    ● Problem-solving and analytical skills

    ● Ability to collaborate effectively

    ● Ability to demonstrate and formulate initiative

    ● Negotiation

    ● Leadership

    ● Managerial qualities

    ● Adaptability

    ● Ethical judgement

     

    Employability Skills:

    ● Project Management

    ● Technological proficiency

    ● Mathematical ability

    ● Financial accounting ability

    ● Business and Management

    ● Knowledge of Marketing and the Law

    ● Strategic development

    ● Research capability

    ● Report writing

    ● Document preparation and verbal presentation

    ● Political awareness

    ● Intercultural awareness

    ● Comprehension of global issues

    ● Understanding of environmental issues

    ● Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship

     

    They will also possess the following competencies:

    ● Excellent at building relationships and able to work with people at all levels in a dynamic environment.

    ● Able to work well as part of a team and individually in a demanding environment whilst meeting tight deadlines.

    ● Critical and able to derive meaning from academic theories and concepts.

    ● Clear communicators with the ability to use the fundamental concepts and strategic development of the business function

    The specific programme objectives are to:

    1. Build a Strong Foundation in Business Knowledge: Equip learners with a comprehensive understanding of contemporary business theories, concepts, and methodologies, providing an in-depth academic grounding in core disciplines essential for a successful career in general Business.

    1. Cultivate Expertise in Key Business Disciplines: Foster expertise in critical areas of business while encouraging an awareness of how these disciplines evolve and how to evaluate emerging knowledge effectively.

    1. Enhance Problem-Solving and Decision-Making Skills: Develop learners’ ability to approach business challenges methodically and rationally, enabling them to apply their knowledge and skills effectively in real-world scenarios.

    1. Strengthen Intellectual and Communication Skills: Encourage the development of reasoning,

    evaluative, and communication skills to enhance interpersonal abilities, enabling learners to engage effectively in diverse business contexts.

    1. Promote Information Organisation and Acumen: Equip learners with the skills to organise information, construct and defend arguments, and present conclusions clearly and Coherently.

    1. Encourage Critical and Analytical Thinking: Instil the ability to critically assess knowledge and ideas, empowering learners to evaluate perspectives using both qualitative and quantitative research findings.

    1. Facilitate Additional Opportunities: Provide learners with the chance to experience additional areas of business, such as Management, Human Resource Management, Supply Chain Management, complementing their foundational knowledge with targeted expertise.

    Delivery

    This programme is delivered through both online and face-to-face modes of delivery, including classroom sessions (in-person and Zoom lectures) and practical computer lab sessions.

    Minimum Entry Requirements

    To apply, you need to submit an application form, verified degrees and transcripts, and any supporting materials. International applicants whose first language isn't English must prove English proficiency (B2+ CEFR) with a recognised test (IELTS, Cambridge, DBS) taken within the last two years. Overseas qualifications are assessed using NARIC Ireland and Anabin Germany.

    Minimum entry requirements for the BA (Hons) in Business vary:

    ●        Leaving Certificate: Minimum 2 H5s and 4 O6/H7s (including a language; some courses need O6/H7 in Maths).

    ●        A-Levels/GCSE: Minimum four GCSE passes (grade C, including Maths and English) and two A-level passes (grade C or higher).

    ●        BTEC: Minimum BTEC National Diploma in a relevant field.

    ●        FETAC/QQI: Full Level 5 award with Distinction in at least three modules.

    ●        German and other EU: Standard applicants are assessed on school leaving certificates. German applicants need Abitur with specific subject grades, including minimum grades in Maths and English. Other EU qualifications are evaluated against the Irish Leaving Certificate.

    ●        Mature Applicants: If you're over 23 by January 1st of the admission year and don't meet standard requirements, you can apply based on age, experience, education, motivation, and commitment.

    ●        English Language Requirement (EU/Non-EU non-native speakers): Minimum IELTS 6.0 or equivalent for Honours Degrees (Level 8).

    ●        Non-EU: Apply directly to the International Admissions Office and meet course entry requirements and the English language requirement (B2+ CEFR).

  • Human Resource Management
  • BA (Hons) Business (Human Resource Management) 

    Human Resource Management

    Overview

    The BA (Hons) in Business is a four year part-time programme (180 ECTS) offering a flexible curriculum with common first-year subjects followed by specialisation in later years, culminating in a final capstone project. The interdisciplinary programme equips both domestic and international students with core business knowledge, processes, strategies, and transferable skills for a dynamic business environment, preparing them for management roles or further Level 9 study at DBS (including various MSc programmes and the MBA). This programme is aimed at both domestic and international learners who seek an underpinning in key business theories, concepts and business processes, strategies and skills. The programme ensures learners acquire an integrated, balanced, and dynamic business education, enabling the development of business knowledge, including previously acquired knowledge and experience. Graduates will be eligible for junior management roles or higher administrative roles within a specific subfield of business complementing their previous experience and learning.  The part-time programme features four pathways: General Business, Management, Human Resource Management, and Supply Chain Management.

     

     

    On completion of this programme, graduates will be able to effectively demonstrate the following attributes:

    ● Communication Skills

    ● Literacy Skills

    ● Effective communication comprising of clarity of verbal and written material

    ● Independent learning

    ● Capable of synthesising diverse academic theories and practices

    ● Problem-solving and analytical skills

    ● Ability to collaborate effectively

    ● Ability to demonstrate and formulate initiative

    ● Negotiation

    ● Leadership

    ● Managerial qualities

    ● Adaptability

    ● Ethical judgement

     

    Employability Skills:

    ● Project Management

    ● Technological proficiency

    ● Mathematical ability

    ● Financial accounting ability

    ● Business and Management

    ● Knowledge of Marketing and the Law

    ● Strategic development

    ● Research capability

    ● Report writing

    ● Document preparation and verbal presentation

    ● Political awareness

    ● Intercultural awareness

    ● Comprehension of global issues

    ● Understanding of environmental issues

    ● Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship

     

    They will also possess the following competencies:

    ● Excellent at building relationships and able to work with people at all levels in a dynamic environment.

    ● Able to work well as part of a team and individually in a demanding environment whilst meeting tight deadlines.

    ● Critical and able to derive meaning from academic theories and concepts.

    ● Clear communicators with the ability to use the fundamental concepts and strategic development of the business function

    The specific programme objectives are to:

    1. Build a Strong Foundation in Business Knowledge: Equip learners with a comprehensive understanding of contemporary business theories, concepts, and methodologies, providing an in-depth academic grounding in core disciplines essential for a successful career in general Business.

    1. Cultivate Expertise in Key Business Disciplines: Foster expertise in critical areas of business while encouraging an awareness of how these disciplines evolve and how to evaluate emerging knowledge effectively.

    1. Enhance Problem-Solving and Decision-Making Skills: Develop learners’ ability to approach business challenges methodically and rationally, enabling them to apply their knowledge and skills effectively in real-world scenarios.

    1. Strengthen Intellectual and Communication Skills: Encourage the development of reasoning,

    evaluative, and communication skills to enhance interpersonal abilities, enabling learners to engage effectively in diverse business contexts.

    1. Promote Information Organisation and Acumen: Equip learners with the skills to organise information, construct and defend arguments, and present conclusions clearly and Coherently.

    1. Encourage Critical and Analytical Thinking: Instil the ability to critically assess knowledge and ideas, empowering learners to evaluate perspectives using both qualitative and quantitative research findings.

    1. Facilitate Additional Opportunities: Provide learners with the chance to experience additional areas of business, such as Management, Human Resource Management, Supply Chain Management, complementing their foundational knowledge with targeted expertise.

    Delivery

    This programme is delivered through both online and face-to-face modes of delivery, including classroom sessions (in-person and Zoom lectures) and practical computer lab sessions.

    Minimum Entry Requirements

    To apply, you need to submit an application form, verified degrees and transcripts, and any supporting materials. International applicants whose first language isn't English must prove English proficiency (B2+ CEFR) with a recognised test (IELTS, Cambridge, DBS) taken within the last two years. Overseas qualifications are assessed using NARIC Ireland and Anabin Germany.

    Minimum entry requirements for the BA (Hons) in Business vary:

    ●        Leaving Certificate: Minimum 2 H5s and 4 O6/H7s (including a language; some courses need O6/H7 in Maths).

    ●        A-Levels/GCSE: Minimum four GCSE passes (grade C, including Maths and English) and two A-level passes (grade C or higher).

    ●        BTEC: Minimum BTEC National Diploma in a relevant field.

    ●        FETAC/QQI: Full Level 5 award with Distinction in at least three modules.

    ●        German and other EU: Standard applicants are assessed on school leaving certificates. German applicants need Abitur with specific subject grades, including minimum grades in Maths and English. Other EU qualifications are evaluated against the Irish Leaving Certificate.

    ●        Mature Applicants: If you're over 23 by January 1st of the admission year and don't meet standard requirements, you can apply based on age, experience, education, motivation, and commitment.

    ●        English Language Requirement (EU/Non-EU non-native speakers): Minimum IELTS 6.0 or equivalent for Honours Degrees (Level 8).

    ●        Non-EU: Apply directly to the International Admissions Office and meet course entry requirements and the English language requirement (B2+ CEFR).

  • Management
  • BA (Hons) Business (Management)

    BA (Hons) Business | Management

    Overview

    The BA (Hons) in Business is a four year part-time programme (180 ECTS) offering a flexible curriculum with common first-year subjects followed by specialisation in later years, culminating in a final capstone project. The interdisciplinary programme equips both domestic and international students with core business knowledge, processes, strategies, and transferable skills for a dynamic business environment, preparing them for management roles or further Level 9 study at DBS (including various MSc programmes and the MBA). This programme is aimed at both domestic and international learners who seek an underpinning in key business theories, concepts and business processes, strategies and skills. The programme ensures learners acquire an integrated, balanced, and dynamic business education, enabling the development of business knowledge, including previously acquired knowledge and experience. Graduates will be eligible for junior management roles or higher administrative roles within a specific subfield of business complementing their previous experience and learning.  The part-time programme features four pathways: General Business, Management, Human Resource Management, and Supply Chain Management.

     

     

    On completion of this programme, graduates will be able to effectively demonstrate the following attributes:

    ● Communication Skills

    ● Literacy Skills

    ● Effective communication comprising of clarity of verbal and written material

    ● Independent learning

    ● Capable of synthesising diverse academic theories and practices

    ● Problem-solving and analytical skills

    ● Ability to collaborate effectively

    ● Ability to demonstrate and formulate initiative

    ● Negotiation

    ● Leadership

    ● Managerial qualities

    ● Adaptability

    ● Ethical judgement

     

    Employability Skills:

    ● Project Management

    ● Technological proficiency

    ● Mathematical ability

    ● Financial accounting ability

    ● Business and Management

    ● Knowledge of Marketing and the Law

    ● Strategic development

    ● Research capability

    ● Report writing

    ● Document preparation and verbal presentation

    ● Political awareness

    ● Intercultural awareness

    ● Comprehension of global issues

    ● Understanding of environmental issues

    ● Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship

     

    They will also possess the following competencies:

    ● Excellent at building relationships and able to work with people at all levels in a dynamic environment.

    ● Able to work well as part of a team and individually in a demanding environment whilst meeting tight deadlines.

    ● Critical and able to derive meaning from academic theories and concepts.

    ● Clear communicators with the ability to use the fundamental concepts and strategic development of the business function

    The specific programme objectives are to:

    1. Build a Strong Foundation in Business Knowledge: Equip learners with a comprehensive understanding of contemporary business theories, concepts, and methodologies, providing an in-depth academic grounding in core disciplines essential for a successful career in general Business.

    1. Cultivate Expertise in Key Business Disciplines: Foster expertise in critical areas of business while encouraging an awareness of how these disciplines evolve and how to evaluate emerging knowledge effectively.

    1. Enhance Problem-Solving and Decision-Making Skills: Develop learners’ ability to approach business challenges methodically and rationally, enabling them to apply their knowledge and skills effectively in real-world scenarios.

    1. Strengthen Intellectual and Communication Skills: Encourage the development of reasoning,

    evaluative, and communication skills to enhance interpersonal abilities, enabling learners to engage effectively in diverse business contexts.

    1. Promote Information Organisation and Acumen: Equip learners with the skills to organise information, construct and defend arguments, and present conclusions clearly and Coherently.

    1. Encourage Critical and Analytical Thinking: Instil the ability to critically assess knowledge and ideas, empowering learners to evaluate perspectives using both qualitative and quantitative research findings.

    1. Facilitate Additional Opportunities: Provide learners with the chance to experience additional areas of business, such as Management, Human Resource Management, Supply Chain Management, complementing their foundational knowledge with targeted expertise.

    Delivery

    This programme is delivered through both online and face-to-face modes of delivery, including classroom sessions (in-person and Zoom lectures) and practical computer lab sessions.

    Minimum Entry Requirements

    To apply, you need to submit an application form, verified degrees and transcripts, and any supporting materials. International applicants whose first language isn't English must prove English proficiency (B2+ CEFR) with a recognised test (IELTS, Cambridge, DBS) taken within the last two years. Overseas qualifications are assessed using NARIC Ireland and Anabin Germany.

    Minimum entry requirements for the BA (Hons) in Business vary:

    ●        Leaving Certificate: Minimum 2 H5s and 4 O6/H7s (including a language; some courses need O6/H7 in Maths).

    ●        A-Levels/GCSE: Minimum four GCSE passes (grade C, including Maths and English) and two A-level passes (grade C or higher).

    ●        BTEC: Minimum BTEC National Diploma in a relevant field.

    ●        FETAC/QQI: Full Level 5 award with Distinction in at least three modules.

    ●        German and other EU: Standard applicants are assessed on school leaving certificates. German applicants need Abitur with specific subject grades, including minimum grades in Maths and English. Other EU qualifications are evaluated against the Irish Leaving Certificate.

    ●        Mature Applicants: If you're over 23 by January 1st of the admission year and don't meet standard requirements, you can apply based on age, experience, education, motivation, and commitment.

    ●        English Language Requirement (EU/Non-EU non-native speakers): Minimum IELTS 6.0 or equivalent for Honours Degrees (Level 8).

    ●        Non-EU: Apply directly to the International Admissions Office and meet course entry requirements and the English language requirement (B2+ CEFR).

    Student Testimonial

    "I chose DBS because of the city centre location and good reviews online. Companies are queried as to what skills they look for and courses are amended to reflect same. The lecturers are very passionate and know students names.        

    I chose the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Business (Management) because the subject is broad - you can move into many areas with a business degree.        

    My favourite module was Business Finance, The lecturer's name was Nora, she was very passionate about the subject and sparked me to move into a role relating to finance.        

    I would recommend DBS, it is a well known college amongst companies and recruitment agencies; they focus on what skills companies want in candidates. It has benefited my career - I moved from retail management to banking during my time."


    Shane Barry
    Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Business (Management)

     

  • Supply Chain Management
  • BA (Hons) Business (Supply Chain Management)

    BA (Hons) Business | Evening

    Overview

    The BA (Hons) in Business is a four year part-time programme (180 ECTS) offering a flexible curriculum with common first-year subjects followed by specialisation in later years, culminating in a final capstone project. The interdisciplinary programme equips both domestic and international students with core business knowledge, processes, strategies, and transferable skills for a dynamic business environment, preparing them for management roles or further Level 9 study at DBS (including various MSc programmes and the MBA). This programme is aimed at both domestic and international learners who seek an underpinning in key business theories, concepts and business processes, strategies and skills. The programme ensures learners acquire an integrated, balanced, and dynamic business education, enabling the development of business knowledge, including previously acquired knowledge and experience. Graduates will be eligible for junior management roles or higher administrative roles within a specific subfield of business complementing their previous experience and learning.  The part-time programme features four pathways: General Business, Management, Human Resource Management, and Supply Chain Management.

     

     

    On completion of this programme, graduates will be able to effectively demonstrate the following attributes:

    ● Communication Skills

    ● Literacy Skills

    ● Effective communication comprising of clarity of verbal and written material

    ● Independent learning

    ● Capable of synthesising diverse academic theories and practices

    ● Problem-solving and analytical skills

    ● Ability to collaborate effectively

    ● Ability to demonstrate and formulate initiative

    ● Negotiation

    ● Leadership

    ● Managerial qualities

    ● Adaptability

    ● Ethical judgement

     

    Employability Skills:

    ● Project Management

    ● Technological proficiency

    ● Mathematical ability

    ● Financial accounting ability

    ● Business and Management

    ● Knowledge of Marketing and the Law

    ● Strategic development

    ● Research capability

    ● Report writing

    ● Document preparation and verbal presentation

    ● Political awareness

    ● Intercultural awareness

    ● Comprehension of global issues

    ● Understanding of environmental issues

    ● Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship

     

    They will also possess the following competencies:

    ● Excellent at building relationships and able to work with people at all levels in a dynamic environment.

    ● Able to work well as part of a team and individually in a demanding environment whilst meeting tight deadlines.

    ● Critical and able to derive meaning from academic theories and concepts.

    ● Clear communicators with the ability to use the fundamental concepts and strategic development of the business function

    The specific programme objectives are to:

    1. Build a Strong Foundation in Business Knowledge: Equip learners with a comprehensive understanding of contemporary business theories, concepts, and methodologies, providing an in-depth academic grounding in core disciplines essential for a successful career in general Business.

    1. Cultivate Expertise in Key Business Disciplines: Foster expertise in critical areas of business while encouraging an awareness of how these disciplines evolve and how to evaluate emerging knowledge effectively.

    1. Enhance Problem-Solving and Decision-Making Skills: Develop learners’ ability to approach business challenges methodically and rationally, enabling them to apply their knowledge and skills effectively in real-world scenarios.

    1. Strengthen Intellectual and Communication Skills: Encourage the development of reasoning,

    evaluative, and communication skills to enhance interpersonal abilities, enabling learners to engage effectively in diverse business contexts.

    1. Promote Information Organisation and Acumen: Equip learners with the skills to organise information, construct and defend arguments, and present conclusions clearly and Coherently.

    1. Encourage Critical and Analytical Thinking: Instil the ability to critically assess knowledge and ideas, empowering learners to evaluate perspectives using both qualitative and quantitative research findings.

    1. Facilitate Additional Opportunities: Provide learners with the chance to experience additional areas of business, such as Management, Human Resource Management, Supply Chain Management, complementing their foundational knowledge with targeted expertise.

    Delivery

    This programme is delivered through both online and face-to-face modes of delivery, including classroom sessions (in-person and Zoom lectures) and practical computer lab sessions.

    Minimum Entry Requirements

    To apply, you need to submit an application form, verified degrees and transcripts, and any supporting materials. International applicants whose first language isn't English must prove English proficiency (B2+ CEFR) with a recognised test (IELTS, Cambridge, DBS) taken within the last two years. Overseas qualifications are assessed using NARIC Ireland and Anabin Germany.

    Minimum entry requirements for the BA (Hons) in Business vary:

    ●        Leaving Certificate: Minimum 2 H5s and 4 O6/H7s (including a language; some courses need O6/H7 in Maths).

    ●        A-Levels/GCSE: Minimum four GCSE passes (grade C, including Maths and English) and two A-level passes (grade C or higher).

    ●        BTEC: Minimum BTEC National Diploma in a relevant field.

    ●        FETAC/QQI: Full Level 5 award with Distinction in at least three modules.

    ●        German and other EU: Standard applicants are assessed on school leaving certificates. German applicants need Abitur with specific subject grades, including minimum grades in Maths and English. Other EU qualifications are evaluated against the Irish Leaving Certificate.

    ●        Mature Applicants: If you're over 23 by January 1st of the admission year and don't meet standard requirements, you can apply based on age, experience, education, motivation, and commitment.

    ●        English Language Requirement (EU/Non-EU non-native speakers): Minimum IELTS 6.0 or equivalent for Honours Degrees (Level 8).

    ●        Non-EU: Apply directly to the International Admissions Office and meet course entry requirements and the English language requirement (B2+ CEFR).

    Student Testimonial

    "I chose DBS because it was close to my work and also offered different business streams. There were some fantastic lecturers.    

    I learned a lot and I did enjoy it immensely. The sense of accomplishment when I finished it and got my results was like nothing I’d ever felt before. Part-time lecturers are fantastic in helping you understand things and if you put the work and effort in you will get to know them personally.

    I felt I just needed that piece of paper to say I have a degree but now I just want to keep learning new things and expanding my knowledge. I will display my DBS qualification proudly on my wall and CV, and always be reminded of what I achieved and that I never gave up."

    Jack O’Rourke
    Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Business | Part-Time

Categories:
  • Part-Time
  • Business & Management
  • 8
  • Evening Degrees

Course overview

Awarding Body: 
Quality & Qualifications Ireland (QQI)
QQI AWARD LOGO (1)
Award: Honours Bachelor Degree 
NFQ Level: 
Level 8
Award Title: 
BA (Hons) in Business
Award Type: Major
Duration: 4 Years (2 evenings per week)
Next Intake: September 2026

Contact Us

We are now accepting applications for programmes taking place in 2026.
Email: admissions@dbs.ie
Phone: 01 417 7500
Opening times: