Bachelor of Business Studies Careers

Evan Mansfield

I chose the Bachelor of Business Studies (BBS) at UL as my number one option when filling out my CAO form. I was determined to become an accountant, as it was my favourite and best subject in secondary school. The BBS programme provided all CAP 1 exemptions to support my pursuit of becoming a Chartered Accountant while providing an elite, comprehensive education across all business areas. UL provides a diverse and interesting selection of subjects (modules) across all major and minor options. I found finance, economics, and my minor option, organisational psychology, particularly fascinating and engaging.

An aspect of the BBS programme I didn’t appreciate fully upon filling out my CAO was the option to spend a semester abroad (Erasmus). I received the opportunity to spend a semester at the University of Texas at Austin, the number one accounting school in America, through UL’s Erasmus programme. This experience was the best few months of my life. I made friends from Australia, America, and everywhere in between, and made memories that will stay with me for the rest of my life! This opportunity to experience a new culture, adjust and adapt to education in a new continent and meet new people did wonders for my self-confidence and has been formative in shaping who I am today.

University of Limerick’s Cooperative Education programme sets it apart from all Irish universities in terms of the employability of its graduates. I spent eight months working in PwC’s audit department, a Big-4 accounting firm. In this role, I worked with clients from small family-run businesses to large multi-million-dollar funds. I was completing important tasks, received a full wage, and had the opportunity to apply what I learned in class to real-world corporate scenarios. This opportunity allowed me to upskill in data analysis software, shaping my career journey massively, and I have now been accepted to UL’s MSc in Business Analytics programme for my postgraduate study. The UL Cooperative Education Division supports students through every step of this process, with regular check-ins, CV reviews, and help you find a job.

I have a diagnosis of Autistic Spectrum Disorder, and UL has supported my needs in every way imaginable. The Disability Support Services have put numerous exam and academic supports in place, such as separate exam venue and additional time, grinds for challenging subjects and much more, tailored to my needs. These supports have all been put in place in the background, removing any extra stress and ensuring my UL experience is as enjoyable and accessible as possible.

Ella O'Neill Branagan

As a final-year Bachelor of Business Studies (with French) student at UL and KEDGE Business School, my time at the Kemmy Business School has been an extraordinary journey of personal, academic, and professional growth. When I first chose to study at UL, I was drawn to the reputation of KBS, the vibrant student experience, and the unique opportunities that the program oLered—particularly the Dual-Degree pathway. Looking back now, I can confidently say that my expectations have been exceeded in every way.

Initially, adapting to university life was challenging, but KBS and UL provided a welcoming and supportive environment. From my first semester, I was encouraged to push beyond my comfort zone, engage in diverse learning experiences, and connect with students from all backgrounds. The friendships and professional networks I have built over these four years have been invaluable personally and for my future career.

One of the most transformative aspects of my degree was the opportunity to study abroad at KEDGE Business School in Marseille, France, for my third and fourth years. This experience allowed me to expand my academic knowledge but also helped me develop a global mindset and adaptability—skills that are critical in today’s business world. Living and studying in a new country brought challenges, but the growth I experienced was immeasurable. Additionally, completing my internship in Luxembourg allowed me to gain hands-on industry experience and apply the theoretical knowledge I had learned in real-world scenarios.

Throughout my studies, I have particularly enjoyed my coursework's diverse and practical nature. The emphasis on real-world applications, case studies, and group projects has equipped me with critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills that will be invaluable as I transition into the professional world. In particular, Marketing and international business have been my passions, and the depth of learning in these subjects has prepared me well for my next steps.

One memory that will always stay with me is the camaraderie and collaboration within my course. Whether working on group projects, attending networking events, or simply studying late into the night with classmates, the sense of community at KBS has been a defining part of my university experience.

As I look toward the future, my goal is to pursue a career in digital marketing within the luxury or retail sector. My time at UL and KBS has given me the skills, confidence, and experience necessary to take this next step. I am excited to apply everything I have learned and continue to grow in my career.

My advice for incoming students considering UL and KBS is to embrace every opportunity that comes your way. Get involved in extracurricular activities, push yourself to network and gain work experience, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone—whether that means studying abroad, joining a society, or taking on a challenging project. Your time at university is what you make of it, and the experiences you collect will shape your future in ways you never expected.

The past four years have been an unforgettable journey, and I am incredibly grateful for everything I have learned and the people I have met along the way. I know that the foundation built at UL and KBS will continue to support and guide me wherever my career takes me.