Structured PhD

‌Prospective Students

A PhD is an NFQ Level 10 qualification, the highest level awarded by universities in Ireland. Pursuing a PhD involves conducting original research that will make a significant contribution to existing knowledge. PhD students work under the guidance and mentorship of a primary Supervisor and a Graduate Research Committee made up of experienced researchers. Our postgraduate research community is also supported by NUI Galway’s Researcher Development Centre. In addition to the above, PhD students in the College of Arts, Social Sciences, and Celtic Studies often have an association with one or more of the active Research Institutes, Centres, or Units at NUI Galway.

Most PhD students in the College of Arts, Social Sciences, and Celtic Studies at NUI Galway are enroled on one of the many Structured PhD Programmes that we offer. More information on the structure of and requirements for these courses can be found here. Please feel free to reach out to the relevant Academic Coordinator if you have any questions about PhD programmes in your area or if you could use assistance identifying a suitable Supervisor.

While the majority of our PhD students produce traditional supervised theses, we also offer Article-Based PhDs and Practice-Based PhDs in selected areas.

You can apply for our PhD programmes online using this application portal.

Incoming and Current Students

Incoming postgraduate research students should refer to this Guide for New Postgraduate Research Students.

Current PhD students should consult the University Guidelines for Research Degree Programmes as well as the various forms and policies available via the Graduate Studies Website.

Local Guidelines

Local guidelines exist for the following programmes in the College of Arts, Social Sciences, and Celtic Studies at University of Galway:

• CASSCS Local Guideline for PhDs
• CASSCS DPsychs Clinical Psychology calendar entry‌