Programme Overview
As a manager or leader, you might be wondering what all the hype is about artificial intelligence (AI)? You might be trying to understand what AI really can and cannot do? You might be pondering how you can apply machine learning (ML) or analytics to your business? Perhaps Generative AI and Chat-GPT has caught your attention?
New digital technologies are rapidly changing the expectations of customers, employees, and other stakeholders. Though many of today’s business leaders are neither technology experts nor digital natives, technology is critical to their ability to keep a business competitive and drive growth. You might be considering delegating these technology decisions to someone more technically savvy, and perhaps more numerate. This would be a mistake.
Today, no matter what industry you’re in, as a business leader you need to grasp what it takes to transform your organisation to reap the full benefits of digital tools and data. And when we enter the realm of AI and analytics, there are also ethical and legal issues to consider that you need to be aware of.
The objective of this diploma is to provide participants with the knowledge, tools, and insights to demystify AI and business analytics and explore their application in their organisation. Real-world examples will be presented to demonstrate the capabilities, limitations, and opportunities provided by these technologies. Participants will discover how to leverage these to create a competitive edge for their business. They will learn how to anticipate trends and outcomes and make informed decisions. Importantly, participants will explore what it takes for success with AI and analytics by analysing cases across diverse industries and organisations.
Key Details
March 2026
Next Intake
€8,890 & *€8,445 (*UCD Business Alumni)
Fees
9 Months
Duration
6 X 2 day modules
Delivery
NFQ Level 9 / 30 ECTS
Accredited / Credits
Module Dates
|
MODULE |
DATES |
FACULTY |
|
Module 1: Foundations in AI and Business Analytics |
Thurs. 12th & Fri. 13th March 2026 |
Prof Mike O’Neill |
|
Module 2: How to leverage AI and Analytics |
Thurs. 23rd & Fri. 24th April 2026 |
Prof Mike O’Neill |
|
Module 3: Demystifying Business Analytics Technology |
Thurs. 11th & Fri. 12th June 2026 |
Dr. Annunziata Esposito Amideo |
| Module 4: Demystifying Artificial Intelligence Technology |
Thurs. 3rd & Fri. 4th September 2026 |
Dr. Mark Connor |
|
Module 5: Ethics, Regulations and Managing Risk |
Thur. 22nd & Fri. 23rd October 2026 |
Prof Mike O'Neill |
|
Module 6: What success looks like |
Thurs. 3rd & Fri. 4th December 2026 |
Prof Joe Peppard |
Please note - 100% attendance is required at all modules. Should you miss a module due to unexpected circumstances, there is no longer an option to take that module with another intake of the programme – visit www.smurfitschool.ie/executivedevelopment/contactus/faqs/ for full details. Typical day runs from 9.00am to 5.00pm.
MSc Pathway
This standalone diploma also forms part of the optional MSc in Business (Leadership & Management Practice) Pathway. The pathway framework is comprised of eleven diploma programmes. If participants successfully complete any three of these eleven diplomas within a recommended 5-year timeframe, they are awarded with the MSc in Business (Leadership & Management Practice).
Our portfolio of pathway diplomas build on your existing skill set and add relevant value to your business needs. From corporate governance to leadership development, our diplomas deepen your understanding of contemporary business issues and will help you become a stronger leader who can deal with complex issues in rapidly-changing environments. Our unique teaching method, immersive learning environment and world-class faculty combine to produce an educational experience like no other.
Our diploma programmes are delivered over a series of 6 two-day workshops within a 10-12 month period and are assessed on a module-by-module basis through practical assignments.
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