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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

Tuesday 1st April 2025

Next Intake

€11,140 & €10,610*(*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

 

Wednesday 2nd (PM),Thursday 3rd and Friday 4th April 2025 

 

Prof John Cotter / Prof Tom Conlon 

 

Module 2: Aviation Markets and Assets

Wednesday 7th - Thursday 8th May 2025 

Prof John Cotter 

Module 3: Aircraft Finance and Leasing

Thursday 19th - Friday 20th June 2025 

Prof Tom Conlon

Module 4: Advanced Aviation Finance

Thursday 18th - Friday 19th  September 2025 

Prof Tom Conlon

Module 5: Corporate Finance for Aviation 

Wednesday 15th - Thursday 16th October 2025 

Prof John Cotter 

Module 6: Negotiation Strategies for Aviation Finance and Leasing

Wednesday 19th - Thursday 20th November 2025 

Stephen Boyle 

MSc Pathway

This standalone diploma also forms part of the optional MSc in Business (Leadership & Management Practice) Pathway. The pathway framework is comprised of nine diploma programmes. If participants successfully complete any three of these nine 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. Workshops are typically held on Fridays and Saturdays to minimise interference with busy work schedules. The majority of our diploma programmes are assessed on a module-by-module basis through a variety of practical assignments. There are no examinations (excluding the Diploma in Corporate Governance).



FT Global Rankings confirm UCD as leading Irish provider of Executive Education

UCD Smurfit Executive Development has been ranked in the global top 50 and EU top 25 in both the Open Enrolment and Custom Executive Education in the 2024 Financial Times Executive Education Rankings continuing its place as Ireland’s leading provider of Executive Education. 

The School is ranked 33rd in the world in the Custom Executive Education Rankings. Within the ranking criteria, the School ranked an impressive 4th globally for Growth reflecting year-on-year revenue growth and repeat business and 27th for Programme Design which ensures flexibility of the curriculum and cutting-edge expert lecturers. Overall, Client Satisfaction is highest in Ireland and ranks 23rd globally.

In the Open Enrolment Ranking, Smurfit Executive Development ranked 46th globally and first in Ireland marking the 7th year in the global top 50. Among the criteria used to assess the categories, the School scored in the global top 50 in 12 out of 14 categories. Find out more here

The ranking demonstrates consistency at the highest standard in the delivery of world-class executive education programmes and places UCD Smurfit Executive Development with an elite group of business institutions that are among the most recognised in the world.

Discover our Rankings and Accreditations

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