Digital Entrepreneurship and E-Business (EBUS – 5M0828)

As the global marketplace shifts increasingly online, e-commerce and digital strategy have become fundamental components of modern commerce. The Digital Entrepreneurship and E-Business (5M0828) programme at Stillorgan College of Further Education is designed to address this evolving landscape by building practical skills in digital business development and management.

The curriculum focuses on critical thinking, digital marketing, and the operational technicalities required either to launch an independent online venture or to expand an existing company’s e-commerce capabilities.

Course Overview

• Duration: One Year
• Schedule: Mornings Only
• Qualification: NFQ Level 5 QQI Award in E-Business

Entry Requirements

This course is structured for individuals demonstrating a clear interest in digital commerce, whether they aim to launch a startup or support existing businesses looking to expand their online footprint. Because individual places are limited, selection is finalized through an applicant interview process.

Course Content & Modules

The course subjects are structured to guide students from foundational business concepts through to specialized technical implementation:

Core Business & Enterprise

• Entrepreneurial Skills: Identifying and evaluating business opportunities.
• Start Your Own Business: Practical planning and legal frameworks for launching a venture.
• Customer Service: Managing digital communication channels and client relationships.

Digital Marketing & Operations

• eBusiness Studies: Exploring infrastructure, data transmission, and global communication networks.
• Digital Marketing: Deploying strategic online advertising, SEO, and social media campaigns.
• Marketing Practice: Applying standard commercial marketing methodologies to digital operations.

Technical Execution

• Web Authoring: Building and managing the essential web architectures required for functional e-commerce storefronts.

Progression Pathways

Graduates of the Level 5 award have several distinct academic options available to them:

• Internal Progression: Apply directly to the Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Business and Computer Studies at Stillorgan College.
• Higher Education Links Scheme: Use the QQI award to apply through the CAO for a variety of third-level university courses. Learners can verify specific entry codes and institutional criteria on the Qualifax Higher Education Links System.

Tertiary Degree Pathway (No CAO Points Required)

The college has expanded its academic pathways to include a 4-Year Digital Business Tertiary Degree, run in close collaboration with the Dún Laoghaire Institute of Art, Design and Technology (IADT).

• Year 1: Completed at Stillorgan College, leading to the NFQ Level 5 Certificate in E-Business.
• Years 2–4: Students transition with guaranteed entry into Year 2 of the BA (Hons) in Digital Business at the IADT Campus.

Fees & Financial Information

• Registration Fee: A €50 non-refundable acceptance/registration fee applies to all PLC courses.
• Additional Costs: Specialist training costs, material fees, or professional examination fees may apply depending on chosen modules.