Real Learning at NUI Galway
At NUI Galway we are committed to providing our students with a learning experience that has relevance for the real world.
Here you will have plenty of opportunities to apply your knowledge in a practical setting, whether through paid work placements, volunteering projects with the local community, or built-in learning modules that give you voluntary work experience while earning you credits.
This approach makes you very attractive to future employers who are looking for both qualifications and the ability to apply your knowledge in the workplace.
The learning experience
University life introduces you to a whole new way of learning. For the first time, you will be in complete control of your own learning and will need to develop independent learning skills.
You will be encouraged to think critically about issues, to evaluate options for yourself, to work independently on projects and assessments, and to manage your own study time. At university, you play an active part in your own learning.
Helping you to adjust
We recognise that this style of learning represents a big change from the teaching you have been used to at school, and our lecturers offer you plenty of support to help you make that transition to independent learner:
- Our staff are known for their friendly, approachable style
- Lecturers are available for one-to-one meetings
- Some Colleges offer a College Student Adviser who provides advice and support on study skills and learning support
Applying your knowledge in the real world
As Ireland's leading University for student volunteering, NUI Galway offers you a unique opportunity to work on voluntary projects in a community setting, while earning credits for your degree.
Students who work on these projects get the opportunity to take what they have learned on their course and put it into practice in a real-world setting. Not only do you get excellent practical experience, you are given the chance to make a meaningful contribution to the local community.
Workplace experience
Many of our courses include a work placement as an integral part of the course. The Professional Experience Programme (PEP) is a work experience module which lasts five or eight months and is incorporated into many of our degree programmes.
PEP offers students the opportunity to apply the knowledge they have learned on their courses in a business or industry setting.