Skills Pathway

University of Galway & PwC Partnership

University of Galway and PwC Ireland have joined forces on a significant new strategic partnership to support and promote talent for business. PwC and the J.E. Cairnes School of Business & Economics will collaborate on the University's Bachelor of Commerce Skills Pathway focusing on developing students' innovation and entrepreneurial talent. The programme will comprise three modules across their degree: Skills for Success; Skills for Business & Innovation, Creativity and Enterprise.

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This exciting new strategic partnership focuses on developing students outside of their core academic work. It includes the enhancement of student employability skills, building resilience, and mentoring students to understand the progression of ideas from concept to marketplace. J.E. Cairnes School of Business & Economics hosts numerous events throughout the academic year in conjunction with the Commerce degree’s Skills Pathway in order to aid in students workplace development. This includes academic writing workshops, the creation and managing a professional LinkedIn account and Speed Interview events.

These attributes are vital in the ever-changing competitive job market. Some areas studied include • Theory and practice of innovation in organisations, society, and the economy. • Current thinking and recent developments with respect to innovation. • Social Entrepreneurship and Innovation. • Impact of innovation on individuals and society. • Recognising and developing opportunities for innovation in response to organisational challenges. • Connecting student's individual capacity for creativity and innovation. The overall objective of the module is to encourage students to be self-confident in their ability to be creative and innovative in whatever future business or community settings they are working.

Dr Tom Acton, Head of School, J.E Cairnes School of Business & Economics, NUI Galway said: "We are delighted to announce this exciting partnership with one of our top employers, PwC. We are very proud of our unique Bachelor of Commerce Skills programme, which was initiated by former Aer Arann entrepreneur, Pádraig Ó Céidigh and involves a Dragon's Den-type module where students engage in innovative group-based entrepreneurial projects supported by industry mentors. This support from PwC will enable students to be creative and innovative in their future business careers, and we welcome this opportunity to build on our excellent relationship with PwC, a relationship that extends over many decades."

Emma Scott, People Partner, PwC Ireland commented: "Our research indicates that one of the greatest challenges for business is the lack of key skills. As one of Ireland's largest graduate recruiters, we recognise the importance of developing talent, having the digital skills for the new world of business. This talent development allows students to think beyond the classroom, with the communication, teamwork and emotional skills needed for a fast moving tech enabled environment. We are delighted to partner with the University of Galway to help prepare students for the Irish and international workplace equipping them with the relevant skills to become world-class business advisors."

The support from PwC, one of the world’s leading professional services firms, and largest graduate recruiters, will bring business expertise and valuable insights to NUI Galway students, preparing them for the Irish and International workplace.

L‌earn more about the Skills for Business Speed Interview Event

Learn more about Undergraduate Courses and Careers at University of Galway