Access Programmes

Access Programmes Information Event: 12 May 2022

The event takes place 12 May 2022, 6.30-7.30pm in the OFLAHERTY LECTURE THEATRE on the Concourse, NUI Galway South Campus.

What is the Access Course for Higher Education for?

N‌UI Galway Access Programmes provide an opportunity for students who are generally under-represented at third level to progress to University. The Access Course is a 1 year full-time/part-time daytime/evening course that aims to provide students with the opportunity to prepare, personally and academically, for an undergraduate course of full-time study of at least three years duration at NUI, Galway. The course is designed to meet the learning needs of the adult student; to provide individual attention and assistance where appropriate.

Access Diploma Programme Guide 2022

NUI Galway currently deliver a number of Access programmes for School Leavers (22 or under) and Mature Access Students (23 or above) on campus in NUI Galway, as well as in our Outreach centres.

Am I eligible to apply?

This scheme facilitates prospective students who are resident for 1 year or more in the Border Midlands and Western (BMW) region and County Clare.

Applicants are assessed according to their socio-economic status. Applicants must supply evidence of a full year's household income for the previous calendar year with their application. Income limits are consistent with the Higher Education Access Route to Education (HEAR) Scheme

What are the subjects?

Course Content:

The course content consists of two supporting elements: Core Subjects and Academic Options.

Core subjects:

• Study Skills
• Applied Writing
• Information Technology
• Educational Guidance

Academic Options: provide students with introductory university courses as a prelude to continuing their studies to a higher level. Students generally study four options (two per semester) from the following subjects :

• College of Arts, Social Sciences & Celtic Studies: Philosophy, Sociology, History, Irish, English, Mathematics, Geography
• College of Science: Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology
• College of Engineering & Informatics: Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology
• College of Business, Public Policy and Law: Economics/Accountancy, Mathematics

Assessment

The criteria for successful completion of the Access Course involve satisfactory attendance and performance in all elements of the programme, which include written / oral assignments and essays. Students’ academic progress is measured through a process of continuous assessment - written and oral - as well as end of term examinations.

Award

Participants who successfully complete the Access Course will receive a Diploma in Foundation Studies from NUI Galway, and will be eligible to apply for direct entry (via the CAO) to full-time University degree courses* in the following faculties:

• College of Arts
• Social Sciences & Celtic Studies
• College of Science; College of Engineering & Informatics
• College of Business, Public Policy and Law

* in certain instances, interviews with the Department / College Head may also be required.

Costs

Course costs for those selected are borne by the University, contingent upon funding.

Any queries please contact the Access Centre on the ground floor of Áras Uí Chathail, NUI Galway Campus. Service provision is currently by appointment only, please submit queries by email to: access@nuigalway.ie