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Latest Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026

Module Title Taxation
Module Code ACC1011 (ITS: AC305)
Faculty DCU Business School School DCU Business School
NFQ level 8 Credit Rating 10
Description

This module develops students' understanding of the theory, legislation and practice governing the taxation of individuals' and unincorporated businesses 'income and the charge to value added tax. Students also have consider the framework underpinning capital gains tax and corporation tax and how to calculate resulting tax liabilities. It develops students'analytical skills by applying their knowledge and understanding to solving practical problems. It helps to prepare students to advise individuals on their exposure to and obligations regarding taxation on personal and business income. The main mode of delivery is lectures and seminars with students required to prepare material in advance of attendance at seminars.

Learning Outcomes

1. Evaluate the theoretical framework of taxation in an Irish and International context
2. Assess the role of taxation in the Irish economy and in EU/ International context
3. Interpret decisions of the Irish, UK and European courts on income tax, value added tax matters, capital gains tax and corporation tax
4. Identify sources of taxable income and distinguish between capital and revenue receipts and payments
5. Calculate the taxable income of individuals in receipt of cash and non-cash employment income, trading and professional income, rental and investment income
6. Determine the credits and reliefs available to individuals depending on their personal circumstances
7. Recognise the impact of taxation on the operations of unincorporated buinesses, business decisions and the role of taxation incentives
8. Identify transactions and entities liable to VAT and Capital Gains Tax and calculate the resulting liability
9. Understand the Corporation tax framework in Ireland and the role that tax plays in an EU and International context
10. Advise taxpayers on the administrative aspects of Income Tax, Value Added Tax and Local Property Tax, Capital Gains Tax and Corporation Tax.
11. Appreciate the distinction between tax avoidance and tax evasion and ethical considerations which tax advisors/payers consider as part of both.


WorkloadFull time hours per semester
TypeHoursDescription
Lecture48Attendence
Lecture79weekly review of material
Seminars20Attendence
Seminars40preparation of assigned problems
Assignment Completion25Fantasy Budget
Independent Study35Exam preparation and revision
Directed learning3Terminal exam
Total Workload: 250
Section Breakdown
CRN10045Part of TermSemester 1 & 2
Coursework0%Examination Weight0%
Grade Scale40PASSPass Both ElementsY
Resit CategoryRC1Best MarkN
Module Co-ordinatorPatrick MulcahyModule TeacherThomas McCluskey
Assessment Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
Group assignmentFantasy Budget15%Week 7
Written ExamIn class exams in week 5 of the 2nd semester15%n/a
Formal ExaminationEnd-of-Semester Final Examination70%End-of-Semester
Reassessment Requirement Type
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
RC1: A resit is available for both* components of the module.
RC2: No resit is available for a 100% coursework module.
RC3: No resit is available for the coursework component where there is a coursework and summative examination element.

* ‘Both’ is used in the context of the module having a coursework/summative examination split; where the module is 100% coursework, there will also be a resit of the assessment

Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Theory and Philosophies of Taxation
Objectives of taxation; the distinction between revenue and capital taxation, direct and indirect taxes; the impact of case law on the taxation system; evasion and avoidance; economic and behavioural effects of tax; effects of tax on work effort and saving; Evaluation of tax structures.

Administration
General structure of the Irish taxation system; self assessment; preparation and submission of returns; payment dates, ROS, appeals procedures; revenue audits; penalties

Residence and domicile
Residence, domicle, ordinary residence; their relevance to income tax; double taxation relief; introduction to the general provisions of the Irish/UK double taxation agreement.

Schedule D Cases III, IV and V
Determination of amounts assessable; taxation of savings; DIRT, taxation of rental income including premiums and losses.

Schedule F
Computation of assessable income; dividend withholding tax.

Schedule E
Meaning of office or employment; computation of assessable income and reliefs; benefits in kind; termination payments; scope and operation of the PAYE system.

Pay Related Social Insurance and Universal Social Charge
Scope and calculation USC and PRSI for class A1 employees, employers and self employed.

Schedule D Case I and II
Definition of a trade; computations of tax adjusted profits: basis of assessment, commencement, cessation and change of accounting date rules; relief for losses; taxation of partnerships.

Capital Allowances
Definitiion of plant and machinery, industrial buildings; allowances available.

Computations of Income of Individuals and Tax Payable
Tax credits, personal allowances and reliefs, charges and deductions; taxation of married couples and civil partners.

Value Added Tax
General principles and administration, registration; records; payment; deductible and non-deductible VAT; cash receipts basis; group registration; Intra community supplies; imports and exports.

Capital Gains Tax
General Capital Gains Tax principles, calculation of resulting liabilities, pay and file rules.

Corporation Tax
Corporation tax framework, residency, rates of tax, pay and file rules, international developments.

Property Tax
Scope, exemptions, basis of assessment, valuation bands

Indicative Reading List

Books:
  • Mulcahy, P (ed): 2022, Irish Taxation Law and Practice, published annually, Irish Tax Institute, Dublin,
  • 2022: Direct Tax Acts Finance Act 2017, Irish Tax Institute,


Articles:
None
Other Resources

  • data base: Irish Taxation Institute, Tax Find, Dublin, Irish Taxation Institute,
  • Website: Irish Revenue Commissioners, Revenue Irish Tax and Customs, www.revenue.ie

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