Is a master's in management consultancy from University College Dublin worth its cost compared to an MBA for career opportunities in Ireland?
Yes, the UCD Management Consultancy masters is worth it if you have under three years of experience, since it costs roughly half an MBA's tuition and feeds directly into consulting firms like Accenture, EY and Deloitte. Choose the MBA instead only if you have four or more years of experience.
For most early career students, yes, this program is worth it. UCD's Management Consultancy masters costs close to half of the full time MBA and connects you directly with consulting recruiters in Dublin, while an MBA is really built for someone further along in their career who wants senior leadership roles, not a first step into the industry.
Cost And Fit Compared
| Factor | MSc Consultancy | Full Time MBA |
|---|---|---|
| Non-EU tuition | EUR 23,870 | EUR 38,860 |
| Experience needed | 0 to 3 years | 3 or more years |
| Typical starting salary | EUR 50,000 to 65,000 | EUR 70,000 to 90,000 plus |
How To Decide Between Them
- Choose the MSc if you are early in your career and want a direct route into Dublin consulting firms.
- Choose the MBA if you have four or more years of experience and want a leadership pivot.
- Both degrees grant the same 2 year post study work visa, so visa access is not a deciding factor.
My Advice
If you are within three years of graduation and want consulting specifically, the MSc gives you a faster, cheaper and more direct path, so save the MBA decision for later in your career when you have the experience to justify its higher cost.
Looking for a specific course in Ireland?
We will find the universities that offer it, and whether you will get in.
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