I completed my Bachelor of Business Studies (BBS) at UCD’s Quinn School of Business, graduating in 2023. With nearly a decade of experience in retail, I had always wanted to achieve a personal milestone—earning a bachelor’s degree. However, committing to full-time study while working was never an option for me. When I discovered UCD’s flexible part-time BBS program, I knew it was the perfect fit.

Throughout the course, I had the opportunity to learn alongside an incredible mix of people—entrepreneurs, accountants, retail professionals, retirees, and parents re-entering the workforce. The program offers a diverse range of modules, including Marketing, Accounting, Economics, Enterprise and Innovation, and Business Law, ensuring there is something for everyone.

Beyond the wealth of Business knowledge I gained, the BBS significantly boosted my confidence in my academic abilities. Now, two years later, I am in the final year of my Postgraduate Master of Education (PME) and on track to become a Business Studies teacher.

For anyone looking to advance their career, pivot into a new field, or simply achieve a long-held academic goal, I highly recommend UCD’s BBS program. It was truly a transformative experience that allowed me to balance work, study, and personal growth seamlessly. 

Holly Cullen 
Bachelor of Business Studies, Class of 2023

As a consultant project manager and father of children with additional needs, the challenge of completing a Bachelor of Business was an out-of-reach dream.  The program's flexibility and support from the program team have allowed me to complete it at a pace that works.  I would highly recommend it for working parents looking to take that next step.

Erick Cleary 
Bachelor of Business Studies, Year 3

I joined the BBS programme in 2021, drawn to UCD for its prestige and the flexibility of the part-time format, which allowed me to work full-time while studying. Returning to education after several years was daunting, but thanks to the programme's structured approach and the lecturers' support, I quickly found my rhythm.

The modules I took, such as Human Resource Management, Project Management, and Strategy, were immediately applicable to my career. The insights from these courses helped me improve my leadership approach, structure my work more effectively, and think more strategically about business challenges. I also saw immediate improvements in my ability to write clearer reports, communicate more effectively, and make well-informed decisions.

Beyond academics, the programme helped me build a strong network. These connections didn’t just stay in the classroom - they led to real career opportunities and collaborations. Since starting BBS, I’ve progressed through three different roles and, more surprisingly, decided to return to UCD once again for the Executive MBA at the Smurfit School of Business - something I wouldn’t have even considered before.

For anyone thinking about joining, I highly recommend reaching out to the faculty team - they were incredibly supportive throughout the application process. 

Lorenzo Paiani 
Bachelor of Business Studies, Class of 2023

Completing my Bachelor’s in Business Studies at UCD Lochlan Quinn School of Business was a turning point in my career. Shortly after graduating, I earned a promotion at work, and the skills I developed gave me the confidence to explore new opportunities. Since then, I’ve pivoted into a new direction and am now studying a Higher Diploma in Psychology. The strong foundation I built during my degree not only helped me advance professionally but also gave me the flexibility to pursue further study in a completely different field.

The program’s combination of practical learning, critical thinking, and industry connections made a lasting impact on my career. It showed me that business skills are not just for traditional corporate roles—they’re valuable across industries and can open unexpected doors. If you’re considering this program, I can confidently say it provides opportunities far beyond what you might initially imagine!

Nicholas Landy  
Bachelor of Business Studies, Class of 2022

"Choosing to do the DBS/BBS programme is probably the best professional decision I’ve made in my 20+ years working in business. It has unlocked my potential, opened my mind to new possibilities and radically improved my self worth. The value of learning while working cannot be underestimated, this has given me a much deeper understanding of the organisational environment. 

I work for a large multinational company, so all of the content has been relevant to me. It surprised me how much I enjoyed economics, and my long standing cynicism of HR has been turned on it’s head! In particular, change management is a fascinating topic which will help me navigate the ever changing environment.

The structure of the programme is very supportive of individuals trying to maintain a work/life/study balance. There is always support on the end of the phone or through email, and student forums are very helpful for thrashing out ideas and creating a shared understanding of what is expected. In short, you’re never alone."

Rory Holohan

Bachelor of Business Studies, Class of 2020

I have been managing in retail for years before commencing this programme. The world of business is fuelled by change and creativity, and I was looking to develop further. This programme allowed me to pursue my academic goals while being full-time employed, and I couldn’t be happier with my choice. DBS offers great support, which was much appreciated. The modules are delivered in an excellent format, and the flexibility of home study suits my current position. Tt is also immensely rewarding.

The modules' direct relevance to the workplace made the material very applicable. I would recommend this to anyone working in a business environment and to those looking to pursue a career in business.

Tatiana Gutu

Bachelor of Business Studies, Graduate