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Courses
Courses
Choosing a course is one of the most important decisions you'll ever make! View our courses and see what our students and lecturers have to say about the courses you are interested in at the links below.
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University Life
University Life
Each year more than 4,000 choose University of Galway as their University of choice. Find out what life at University of Galway is all about here.
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About University of Galway
About University of Galway
Since 1845, University of Galway has been sharing the highest quality teaching and research with Ireland and the world. Find out what makes our University so special – from our distinguished history to the latest news and campus developments.
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Colleges & Schools
Colleges & Schools
University of Galway has earned international recognition as a research-led university with a commitment to top quality teaching across a range of key areas of expertise.
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Research & Innovation
Research & Innovation
University of Galway’s vibrant research community take on some of the most pressing challenges of our times.
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Business & Industry
Guiding Breakthrough Research at University of Galway
We explore and facilitate commercial opportunities for the research community at University of Galway, as well as facilitating industry partnership.
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Alumni & Friends
Alumni & Friends
There are 128,000 University of Galway alumni worldwide. Stay connected to your alumni community! Join our social networks and update your details online.
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Community Engagement
Community Engagement
At University of Galway, we believe that the best learning takes place when you apply what you learn in a real world context. That's why many of our courses include work placements or community projects.
Access Course for Higher Education – Mature Students
Key Facts
23
years of age or over
€
Income assessed
1
year resident in BMW region
What is the Access Course?
The Access Course is a 1 year course that aims to provide mature students (aged 23 or over on year of entry to a degree programme) with the opportunity to prepare, personally and academically, for an undergraduate course of full-time study of at least three years duration at University of Galway.
- Students who complete the Access Course receive a Diploma in Foundation Studies from University of Galway.
- They are also eligible to apply for direct entry (via the CAO) to full-time University undergraduate degree courses.
- Read the Access Foundation Programme 2023
Location:
Our programmes are offered in three locations:
- Galway (Campus, University of Galway)
- Tuam
- An Cheathrú Rua (Outreach bi-lingual programme)
Follow these steps to apply:
1. Gather information that you will require e.g. PPS number, CAO number (if applicable), names and contact details of 3 referees (two academic and one personal)
2. You will have the opportunity to forward your financial documents after completing the application form.
3. Check your email inbox for acknowledgement of your application and follow the information given to submit your addtional documentation.
Complete the Online Applications Form here
Deadline for applications is 15 September 2024
Is féidir d'iarratas a chomhlíonadh trí Ghaeilge ach Gaeilge a roghnú mar theanga ar an bhfoirm.
Any queries please contact the Access Programmes Office by emailing access@universityofgalway.ie
Caroline Giles | Law (BCL)
I am the first in my family to attend university and I am currently in my final year of Civil Law in NUIG with hopes to continue onto a masters next year. I am a huge advocate for Access and firmly believe I would not be where I am today without it. It is an invaluable resource for those who may not have taken the traditional education route.
Tendai Muzunze | Bachelor of Commerce (Global Experience)
I am a Global Commerce student today but thanks to the education I am getting here at NUIG, who knows what greatness awaits after I graduate...I grew up watching my mother, work three jobs just to put food on the table. When she passed away, I lost my way but not the sound of her voice telling me that I have what it takes to do amazing things. I eventually took heed and applied for the ACCESS program at NUI Galway - my life has never been the same.
Jo Hatfield | Masters (Philosophy)
Without the access course, the first year of the BA would have been much harder and stressful than it was. The access laid solid foundations for entering university life from knowing the dynamics of how lectures are presented down to the simple things like finding the lecture halls. It made the first year much easier to cope with as it allowed me to see what my academic skills were and let me know that I wasn’t a failure where learning was concerned.