Overview

University of Galway has built a fine reputation dating back to 1845 when it first opened its doors to a student cohort of just 68. Today it welcomes more than 18,000 students and is one of the top 300 universities worldwide (QS World University Rankings 2022). University of Galway was awarded Irish University of the Year 2022 (Sunday Times Good University Guide).

　　Although based in one of the smaller university cities in the world, University of Galway has a far-reaching reputation for excellence in research and its study programmes.

　　University of Galway has more than 60 different undergraduate courses plus a wide range of postgraduate opportunities and part-time evening courses. The five main colleges offer a diverse selection of study programmes and many are involved in global research projects.

　　International students are welcome at University of Galway. The application process is simple and easy to navigate with an overview of specific qualification requirements by country, making it clear to applicants what they need to achieve to be accepted. The International Office helps students feel at home and integrate into university life, supporting them through their studies.

　　A charming and cultural city, Galway is based on the beautiful coastline of western Ireland, packed with independent shops and cafes. Tradition is balanced with contemporary convenience and even the most modern coffee shops or bistros have an interesting history.

　　Galway ranks as one of the top 5 cities in the world (Lonely Planet 2020) and its often thought of as one of the friendliest cities by major publications including Travel + Leisure magazine and Conde Nast Traveller. Galway's unique charm and spirit makes it an exciting and welcoming place for international students.

　　

What's new

The major focus for University of Galway is delivering its ‘Shared Vision, Shaped by Values' strategy. This vision encompasses the plans for the university over the period 2020 to 2025, with key areas including sustainable development, empowering its students with ambition and excellence, improving health and wellbeing, and making a positive societal impact.

　　It will continue to focus on maintaining its reputation as a centre for excellence for data science, public policy, culture and creativity, climate and oceans, and medical technologies.

　　The vision also involves an ambitious ‘Building for the Future' development programme with the addition of a new sports campus, more affordable accommodation, a ''landmark'' performance and culture space, and a new innovation district.

　　The university continues to be a major part of global research initiatives. In 2021 new studies have been announced including leading the way on worldwide clinical trials to improve cancer treatments, studies on workplace culture and the future of remote working, plus many initiatives related to the long-term social, health and the economic impacts of COVID-19.

　　

Teaching quality

The reputation of University of Galway is founded on its teaching quality, and its focus on providing students with courses that offer a balance between learning, research and developing critical skills required for future employment.

　　Teachers and lecturers at the university are recognised for their ability to bring out the best in their students. The university is a regular feature at national teaching awards and other recognition programmes that highlight the consistently exceptional learning frameworks provided by teaching staff employed at the institution.

　　Overall, the university continues to climb higher year-on-year on international rankings lists, factoring in not only the quality of teaching but also the overall student experience.

　　While every department at University of Galway offers a high-quality education, there are certain departments that stand out. The university employs four scientists that are ranked among the world's ‘Most Influential Scientific Minds' by Thomson Reuters. Meanwhile Galway's cultural significance is reflected in the outstanding performance and cultural learning facilities on campus.

　　Students at University of Galway are given a fully rounded educational experience. This doesn't just include formal learning but also work experience and the opportunity to join societies and take part in volunteering.

　　

Department structure

The university is made up of four colleges, each of which are then made up of various schools of study.

　　One of the largest is the College of Arts, Social Sciences and Celtic Studies. This includes the schools of Political Science & Sociology, Psychology, Education, Geography, English and Creative Arts (including Performance), History and Philosophy, and Languages, Literatures and Cultures.

　　The College of Medicine, Nursing & Health Sciences is relatively self-explanatory. It's home to the Schools of Health Science (including therapy), Nursing, and Medicine. The School of Medicine has a wide variety of specific courses available to study, ranging from General Practice and Pharmacology through to Surgery, OB/GYN and Pathology.

　　The College of Science and Engineering is where students can learn various technical subjects. The schools of this college include Chemistry, Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, and Natural Sciences.

　　The last of the colleges with various schools is the College of Business, Public Policy and Law. As well as the School of Law and the Shannon College of Hotel Management, it is home to the J.E. Cairnes School of Business & Economics, covering a range of business topics.

　　The University also has an Adult Learning & Professional Development Centre, with a selection of summer schools as well as part-time and evening courses in a wide variety of subject areas.

　　

Entry requirements

Each course at University of Galway has its own entry requirements in terms of academic qualifications. It has a simplified explanation for international students, with a breakdown of the requirements from their own country to explain the minimum expected grades and qualifications.

　　

English language requirements

While the specific course requirements may vary, broadly speaking students are required to have a minimum 6.5 overall score in IELTS, with no component below a 5.5, for the full undergraduate course of study.

　　The English Language Centre offers a selection of pre-sessional English language and academic skills courses, to assist students in enhancing their English and academic skills for entry. If a student wishes to attend University of Galway in order to study the English language, those requirements are lowered.

　　

Facilities

University of Galway has some excellent facilities to ensure that students can properly focus on their education and also enjoy a well-rounded university experience.

　　The Students' Union is both a service, helping to advocate for students during their time in Galway, but also a physical location with the college bar, Wall Cafe and the campus shop. Students can relax, make friends or buy essentials from the SU, and enjoy some well-earned downtime.

　　Anyone looking to keep fit and active will find that there are some truly outstanding facilities available to students. The University of Galway Sports Centre has its own international competition-standard swimming pool, a sports hall with bleacher seating for 600 spectators, extensive fitness rooms with modern equipment, an outdoor athletics track including jumping and throwing facilities, various pitches and more than 3km of flat water for water sports.

　　Students are able to join over 110 clubs and societies at University of Galway. These vary on subject matter, with everything from circus skills to volunteering. Students who can't find a society to suit their interests are welcome to create their own, too.

　　And regarding study, the James Hardiman Library has over 430,000 printed books and 400,000 eBooks that students can use. There are also dedicated quiet study and group study facilities to cater for times when students need a space to concentrate or collaborate.

　　

Scholarships & funding

Course fees at University of Galway are around average for Ireland. EU residents will pay EUR 5,822 per year for most undergraduate courses, while non-EU citizens will likely pay EUR 16,300. Fee instalment payment plans are available. Fees are subject to annual review.

　　University of Galway is committed to attracting high calibre students from around the world. To this end, the university offers a range of scholarships to students. Some of these are broadly aimed at all students, while others are country or region specific.

　　Most scholarships require students to apply before a set deadline, with a 500-word personal statement explaining the justification for the funding. Applicants are encouraged to visit the scholarships website to review important dates and deadlines.

　　For international students, there are further scholarship opportunities.