Learn about NUI Galway

Established in 1845, NUI Galway is one of Ireland's foremost centres of academic excellence.

About the University

With over 17,000 students and more than 2,200 staff, NUI Galway has a distinguished reputation for teaching and research excellence.

Our reputation

NUI Galway has earned national and international recognition as a research-led community with a commitment to top-quality teaching.

How we're unique

At NUI Galway, we have a strong connection to the Irish language. Plus, volunteering and community outreach play a strong role in academic life.

Our history

From Queen's College to National University of Ireland, the University's past is intertwined with the history of Galway and Ireland.

University structure

The three pillars the organisational structure of NUI Galway are {Uacute;}darás na hOllscoile, the Academic Council and the University Management Team  

President's message

Latest news

Read the latest news about NUI Galway

NUI Galway at glance

Our mission

Learning and leadership for life and work

Vision

  • A holistic educational and cultural experience for a diverse student body
  • To deliver innovation, excellence and leadership in selected and distinctive programmes of teaching, research and scholarship
  • Reflecting the University’s strengths, national priorities, and the strengths and needs of our region
  • Recognising our particular commitment to Gaeltacht regions and the Irish language community
  • Building effective strategic partnerships with relevant regional, national and international stakeholders and organisations

Quick facts

Image of the quad in Spring

NUI Galway has over:

  • 17,000 students.
  • 2,000 international students from 92 countries.
  • 2,400 staff members.
  • 120 links with universities across the globe.
  • 90,000 alumni in 107 countries.

NUI Galway is:

  • Ireland's top University for student retention - Sunday Times 2011.
  • Irelands's top Univerisity for graduate employability with 96% of our graduates employed or in further study within six months of graduating.

NUI Galway is world leading for research in:

  • Biomedical Science and Engineering 
  • Web Science
  • Human Rights
  • Marine Science, Energy and Environmental Science
  • Applied Social Sciences and Public Policy
    Humanities, in particular literature, Theatre and Irish Studies

NUI Galway was awarded a QS Five Stars Rating in 2012