NCI Course Details

Throughout this programme, you will gain an understanding of the technologies but there is emphasis on the human capabilities, where professional judgement remains essential, such as problem framing, critical evaluation of model assumptions, ethical governance (including the EU Artificial Intelligence Act), persuasive communication, and systems thinking.

The module will include discussion on topics including:

• Introduction to business analytics
• Foundations of underlying technologies 
• Use cases of big data
• Business implications and strategy
• Effective communication of analytics

Note: Funded places on this microcredential are now full

Apply for a Non-Funded Place

If you are interested in applying for this programme via the fee-paying route, please click here.

This course will be particularly relevant for new entrants or management seeking strategic competence in data analytics and AI. It would be a very suitable programme for those in operational, project, or general management roles requiring data informed decision making.

The ability to understand and apply big data is also highly useful for professionals in areas like marketing, HR, and finance, and a smaller group of entrepreneurs and public sector staff responding to AI governance obligations.

There is a strong demand for people with big data, artificial intelligence skills and the ability to apply these in business and other contexts. Deloitte’s State of AI in the Enterprise (2026) identifies the AI skills shortage, and Skillnet Ireland’s Talent Landscape (2025) highlights rising demand for human centred capabilities such as critical thinking, and ethical awareness.

This demand spans almost every sector including financial services, ICT, healthcare, manufacturing, professional services, and the public sector. The combination of technical skills and applied knowledge will be of significant benefit across a wide span of careers.

Applicants are required to hold a minimum of a 2.2 honours degree in either a cognate or noncognate area at level 8 on the National Framework of Qualifications.Applicants. Applicants from both computing and non-computing backgrounds are eligible.

Candidates who do not meet the formal academic requirements may be considered through Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning (RPEL), based on relevant work experience.

Applicants whose first language is not English must attach a certified qualification of proficiency in English.

Assessment is fully through continuous assessment (no exams) and integrates analytical, strategic, and communication skills through case studies and a project requiring learners to translate a real world dataset into a evidence based narrative for senior stakeholders.

A suitable minimum specification is 16GB RAM (32GB recommended), a modern Intel i7 /AMD Ryzen 7/ Apple Silicon equivalent processor, at least 256GB SSD storage (512GB recommended), reliable Wi-Fi, and a recent version of Ubuntu, macOS, or Windows. Students must have full administrator rights on their device to install and configure required software and development tools. Access to a webcam, microphone, and power supply for extended lab sessions is also expected.

The course is a 10 ECTS programme consisting of one module.

• Certificate in Big Data and AI in Business: Strategy and Emerging Trends

Delivered blended online with live lectures and online supporting learnings materials available.

1 Semester from September to December 2026.

Thursday 6 - 9pm with one face-to-face on the Saturday October 17th from 10am-3pm (with 1 hour break)

The Certificate in Big Data and AI in Business: Strategy and Emerging Trends is a NFQ Level 9 Minor award (10 ECTS), accredited by QQI.

Funded Student Fees

Funded by the Micro-credential Learner Fee Subsidy 2026. Programme fees are subsidised at 80% for all eligible learners.

A student contribution fee of €260 is applicable for this course. This must be paid no later than 13th November 2026. If a student withdraws before commencement the full amount is refundable. No refund will be processed once the student commences the course the week beginning 21st September. See NCI New Students for details.

This scheme does not cover any allowance for books and materials. This is NOT a Springboard+ funded course.

Non-Funded Student Fees

€1,300

(Fees revised annually)

You can complete an Employer Sponsorship form if your fees are being paid by your company.