How we're unique

There are many unique aspects to NUI Galway, from the welcoming, supportive atmosphere on campus to our ability to develop innovative courses to meet the needs of the job market.

New and unique courses

Innovative new courses are continually developed to respond to the needs of students and the job market. Many of these programmes are unique to NUI Galway and reflect our expertise in selected areas.

Unique courses include:

• BSc Marine Science
• BSc Podiatry
• BE/MEng Engineering Innovation
• BE/MEng Sport and Exercise Engineering
• BA CONNECT

Get connected

The atmosphere at NUI Galway is welcoming and open, as students and staff work closely together. Our students really value the fact that they are part of a well connected learning community.

Our lecturers are well known for their friendly, approachable style and are always willing to make time for students.

World-leading research

Research at NUI Galway is global in scale as we are recognized as world-leaders in our particular areas of expertise. Our research strengths include Biomedical Science and Engineering; Environmental Science, Marine science, Human rights law, Internet technology, digital humanities, social gerontology, child and family research.

Unique highlights include:

• The first UNESCO Chair in the Republic of Ireland, in Children, Youth and Civic Engagement
• The largest research institute for developing internet technology
• Ireland's primary stem cell and gene therapy research institute
• The world's leading experts in human rights law

Bringing the Gaeltacht to NUI Galway

Galway is close to the Connemara Gaeltacht, one of several Irish-speaking regions in Ireland. The University's links with the region are strengthened by its Irish language education and cultural centres in the towns of Carraroe and Carna.

The NUI Galway Strategic Plan in 2006 laid the foundations for the creation of an exemplary bilingual campus. Scoil na Gaeilge,, the Department of Irish, continues to grow and the University's Irish language institute, Acadamh na hOllscolaíochta Gaeilge is dedicated to pioneering third-level education through Irish.

Acadamh na hOllscolaíochta Gaeilge, works with other schools and departments to provide a number of courses both at undergraduate and postgraduate level, that can be studied through Irish. Our students also have the opportunity to study for an Irish Diploma alongside their studies.

Volunteering and the Community

NUI Galway is committed to playing a strong and supportive role in the city and region, and is deeply involved in a range of activities in the local community. We engage with non-governmental organisations, industry, small business, schools, and individuals.

NUI Galway is Ireland's leading university for student volunteering, with more than 1200 registered volunteers. Our students have the opportunity to volunteer on community projects in their free time and as part of their coursework.