By Sophie Marx
A new cybersecurity education programme was launched Monday, 10 November by Minister James Lawless at the University of Galway.
Designed for people in leadership roles without a background in cyber or IT security, the course was developed by the University’s School of Business and Economics in collaboration with EY.
Participants will be able to enrol from early 2026, with an initial focus on the healthcare sector, before it will be expanded into other sectors.
As cyber threats become increasingly critical, it is imperative for leaders to be equipped to address these challenges in an increasingly digital world.
Launching the initiative, Minister Lawless said that cyber threats are evolving rapidly and require stronger awareness at the leadership level.
“Cyber threats are becoming more complex all the time, and it’s crucial that our leaders have the tools they need to stay ahead of the risks,” he said.
The Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science also welcomes the collaboration between the University and EY.
“This new programme is a strong example of how industry and education can work together to build the expertise required to strengthen our systems and support the people who rely on them.
“I’m really pleased to see this kind of practical, forward-thinking collaboration, and I look forward to the impact it will have across the healthcare sector and beyond,” he said.
Professor Alma McCarthy, Dean of the College of Business, Public Policy and Law, said the programme addresses pressing needs.
“In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, cybersecurity is more critical than ever,” she said.
“It is essential that management teams across all sectors are equipped with the knowledge and skills to address cyber challenges.”
University of Galway Deputy President and Registrar Professor Becky Whay concurs that the collaboration reflects the University’s commitment to developing impactful education.
“The University’s co-development of the cyber executive education programme with EY reflects our commitment to empowering leaders with practical, cutting-edge expertise for the future,” she said.
“Through this programme we are equipping managers with the tools they need to support their organisations in an increasingly digital world, and the opportunities and challenges that go with that.”
The course covers core concepts of cyber awareness, including risk, understanding relevant threats, attack strategies and vulnerabilities, governance, policy, legislation, and cyber incident response and resilience.
The initiative is part of a wider strategy led by J.E. Cairnes School of Business & Economics at the University of Galway to develop a wider scope of Executive Education programmes.
A second programme, which is set to launch in 2026, will be concerned with AI for small to medium-sized enterprises.
Both initiatives draw on the expertise of academics and researchers involved in the University’s MSc in Cybersecurity and Risk Management and MBA programmes at the School of Business and Economics.
The development of the executive education programme in cyberawareness also received support in the Oireachtas from Senator Gerard Craughwell.