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Programme Overview

This programme takes advantage of Smurfit’s position as the leading academic research and teaching hub for aviation leasing and finance in Ireland and globally. This combined with Ireland’s leading position as the number one hub for this sector in the world makes this programme truly unique.

The programme has been developed with input from the aviation finance and leasing sector to ensure it addresses the needs of the industry. Participants will acquire a detailed understanding of the financial processes associated with the aviation finance sector including suitable risk assessment and aircraft asset management, accounting issues, financing and credit enhancement, leasing developments and insurance applications. There will be a substantial focus on sustainability issues and how finance can support the sectors proposed Net Zero targets. They will also develop the necessary knowledge and skills to reach the highest level in the aircraft and airline financing industry.

Key Details

20th April 2026

Next Intake

€11,420 & €10,850*(*UCD Business Alumni)

Fees

9 Months

Duration

6 X 2 day modules

Delivery

NFQ Level 9 / 30 ECTS

Accredited / Credits

Module Dates

 

Module 1: Introduction to Aviation Finance and Leasing

Format: In person on site at Smurfit Exec. Dev. 

Professor John Cotter/Professor Tom Conlon

Mon. (PM) 20th Apr. 

Tues. 21st & Wed. 22nd Apr.  

Module 2: Aviation Markets and Assets

Format: Live Virtual Module

Prof. John Cotter

4 x 3 hrs virtual sessions, from 09:00am-12:00pm GMT

  • Tues. 12th May
  • Thurs. 14th May
  • Tues. 18th May
  • Thurs.  21st May 

Module 3: Aircraft Finance and Leasing

Format: Live Virtual Module

Prof. Tom Conlon

4 x 3 hrs virtual sessions, from 09:00am-12:00pm GMT

  • Tues. 16th June
  • Thurs. 18th June
  • Tues. 23rd June
  • Thurs. 30th June

Module 4: Advanced Aviation Finance

Format: In person on site at Smurfit Exec. Dev. 

Prof. Tom Conlon

Thurs. 3rd & Fri. 4th Sept. 

Module 5: Corporate Finance for Aviation 

Format: In person on site at Smurfit Exec. Dev. 

Prof. John Cotter

Wed. 14th & Thurs. 15th Oct.  

Module 6: Negotiation Strategies for Aviation Finance and Leasing

Format: In person on site at Smurfit Exec. Dev. 

Stephen Boyle

Fri. 27th & Sat. 28th Nov.  

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.

Timing: Smurfit on site days typically start at 9am and finishes at 5pm

Live Virtual Sessions:  Typically, 09:00am-12:00pm GMT.

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.

The majority of our diploma programmes are delivered over a series of 6 two-day workshops within a 10-12 month period. The majority of our diploma programmes are assessed on a module-by-module basis through a variety of practical assignments. 



Discover our Rankings and Accreditations

Athena Swan
EQUIS
AACSB
AMBA
Financial Times
The Economist
GNFAM
GBSN
PIM
PRME
CEMS
UNICON
IMCA