Master’s programs are offered online by four European third-level universities: the National University of Ireland, Linköping University in Sweden, NOVA IMS in Portugal and the University of Bologna in Italy.
Students will learn practical skills in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI) for business, cybersecurity, data science, cloud computing, Internet of Things, blockchain, generative AI, and digital transformation.
This system will cover all tuition fees, registration fees, and exam fees.
Anyone in Ireland or across the EU can apply, but applicants must have a ‘Level 8’ degree or equivalent international qualification.
It is suitable for people looking to get into digital jobs, professionals looking to upskill, and recent graduates looking to gain stronger digital experience to enter the job market, with no technical background required.
Applications are made online through the Digital4Business website. Applicants must upload their resume, transcripts, and a short personal statement explaining their interest in the course.
The four universities then review the application together and, if accepted, the student is officially enrolled at one of the partner institutions.
The program is designed to fit people’s lives and offers full-time, part-time and short-term course options.
Students can also take more compact modules if they wish to complete a smaller part of the program without completing a full master’s degree.
Ireland plays a strong role in this partnership, with organizations including the National University of Ireland, Skillnet Ireland, Digital Technology Skills Limited, Matrix Internet and Terawe involved.
He said the focus is on providing learners with the skills that employers currently need in the modern digital sector.
According to Niamh Smith TD, Minister for Trade Promotion, Digital and AI Transformation, Digital4Business will help build advanced digital skills across Europe.
“Digital4Business is an important EU-funded partnership that will help businesses build the advanced digital skills they need today. Ireland plays a central role in this consortium, alongside leading universities and industry partners across the EU.”
Fully-funded acceptance presents a huge opportunity, she added.
“The opening of fully-funded applications for admission in January 2026 is an important opportunity for learners to access world-class AI and digital education at a critical time for the economy.”
Applications will close on December 19, 2025, and the program will begin on January 19, 2026.
