University of Galway

Galway  Ireland

University of Galway is a prestigious research-led institution located on the stunning west coast of Ireland. With a history dating back to 1845, the university combines rich academic tradition with a modern, innovative approach to postgraduate education. Ranked among the top 2% of universities worldwide, it offers a wide range of master's programmes across the arts, sciences, medicine, business, nursing, law, engineering, health sciences, and more. Our vibrant campus is nestled in the heart of Galway – Ireland’s most culturally diverse and welcoming city – providing students with a unique and enriching environment for study and life. We are proud of our strong industry links, award-winning teaching, and world-class research impact. Whether you're aiming to enhance your career prospects, pursue academic excellence, or explore a new field, University of Galway provides the support, expertise, and inspiration to help you succeed. Join a global community where ambition meets opportunity.

Why study at the University of Galway?

Ranked in the top 2% of universities worldwide, offering internationally recognised master's qualifications.

Vibrant, student-focused campus in Galway – Ireland’s most creative and welcoming city.

Strong industry links and placement opportunities to enhance career prospects.

Wide range of postgraduate programmes with expert teaching and world-leading research.

Generous scholarships available for EU and international students.

3,500

postgraduate students

157

courses

Top 2%

Universities Globally - QS World University Rankings

Galway  Ireland

main campus

Nursing & Health (27) Social Work (32) Sociology (33) Psychology (31) Biological Sciences (4) Creative Arts & Design (9) History & Archaeology (19) Languages, Literature & Culture (21) Medicine (26) Environmental Sciences (13) Education (11) Communication & Media Studies (7) Politics & Government (30) Architecture, Building & Planning (3) Law (22) Linguistics & Classics (23) Economics (10) Agriculture (1) Business & Management (5) Engineering (12) Computer Science (8) Physics (29) Food Sciences (15) Mathematics (25) Materials Science (24) Geography (17) Finance (14)

About the University of Galway

University of Galway is a leading global university located in the heart of Ireland’s west, renowned for its academic excellence, research impact, and commitment to student success. Founded in 1845, the university has a proud history of shaping minds and driving change for over 175 years.

Our mission is to foster a vibrant learning environment that empowers students to think independently, act responsibly, and engage creatively with the world around them. We are guided by values of respect, openness, sustainability, and excellence, placing our students and wider society at the centre of everything we do.

University of Galway offers over 200 postgraduate programmes – both taught and research-based – across the arts, social sciences, business, law, science, engineering, medicine, and health sciences. Our research is internationally recognised, addressing global challenges and informing real-world solutions.

Our award-winning Global Employability Support provides access to the GoingGlobal platform for international opportunities, along with 70 bespoke workshops and events annually. With over 6,600 student attendees, these cover essential topics including the Irish labour market, recruitment practices, CV adaptation, cultural norms, interview preparation, employment law, and graduate work permits.

Galway is a UNESCO City of Film and a European Capital of Culture, providing a unique setting for academic and personal growth. With a diverse community of 19,000+ students from over 100 countries and strong links to industry, our graduates are highly employable and globally connected. University of Galway is a place to thrive, lead, and make an impact.



At University of Galway, you’ll benefit from a supportive, forward-thinking environment designed to help you thrive academically, socially, and professionally during your postgraduate journey.

Student life at University of Galway offers a rich, balanced experience that combines academic challenge with personal development, all within one of Ireland’s most welcoming and vibrant cities.

As a postgraduate student, you’ll join a diverse community of motivated learners, researchers, and professionals from over 100 countries. Our postgraduate population enjoys dedicated spaces and services including tailored academic support, and specialised career guidance. Whether you’re pursuing a taught master’s or a research degree, you’ll find a strong culture of collaboration, curiosity, and real-world impact.

Our city-centre campus is located right in the heart of Galway, just a short stroll from cafés, theatres, shops, and the iconic Spanish Arch. Galway is a lively and creative city, known for its music, festivals, and friendly atmosphere, there’s always something happening, both on and off campus.

University life extends beyond academics. Over 140 clubs and societies offer opportunities to network, volunteer, and connect with like-minded peers. Our award-winning Global Employability team also helps postgraduate students prepare for career success in Ireland and internationally.

At University of Galway, you’ll benefit from a supportive, centrally located, and forward-thinking environment designed to help you thrive academically, socially, and professionally during your postgraduate journey. You can apply for a postgraduate course by creating an account here.



Receiving the Postgraduate Excellence Scholarship has been a game-changer for me. It not only eased the financial burden of further study, but it also provided a strong vote of confidence in my potential. The recognition motivated me to approach my postgraduate studies with greater focus and determination, and also inspired me to push myself further during the final stages of my undergraduate degree to achieve the best possible results. I’m deeply grateful for the support, which has encouraged me to make the most of this opportunity and fully commit to my professional development.

Deciding to pursue a master’s degree is a big step, and choosing the right university is just as important. For me, the decision to study the MEconSc in International Finance at University of Galway was driven by a combination of academic excellence, career opportunities, and a supportive learning environment. One of the main reasons I chose this course is the strong foundation it provides in both economics and finance. The MEconSc in International Finance covers a diverse range of modules, allowing students to develop expertise in key areas such as financial markets, risk management, and economic policy. This has given me a well-rounded understanding of the global finance sector and the technical skills needed to succeed in the industry. Having the chance to apply what I have learned in lectures to an actual work environment has been invaluable. Not only does it enhance professional development, but it also helps build industry connections and gain experience that will make me more employable after graduation. If you are considering a master’s in finance or economics, I highly recommend exploring the programme. Whether you are looking to develop your technical skills, gain industry experience, or simply challenge yourself academically, this course offers it all.

My time at University of Galway was both transformative and inspiring. The exceptional faculty, engaging courses, and inclusive student community challenged me to reach my full potential—both academically and personally.

Outside the classroom, campus life was vibrant and full of opportunities to get involved, meet new people, and develop new skills.

Studying in Galway, with its warm community, rich cultural scene, and stunning natural beauty, created the perfect environment to learn and grow.

This experience not only gave me the tools and confidence to pursue my career goals but also connected me to a global network of fellow alumni I’m proud to be part of.

I always had a keen interest in the environment and climate change, which is what led me to choose a master’s at University of Galway. It was a comprehensive and interesting course with a wide range of modules focusing on improving leadership skills, environmental knowledge and problem-solving. It supplemented my undergraduate degree in Earth and Ocean Science very well. The lecturers were very passionate about their topic areas and the lectures were always highly engaging, with the small class sizes allowing us to participate in some meaningful group discussions. I felt this master’s degree prepared me for a career in the environmental sector, covering a wide range of environmental topics such as environmental impact assessment, project management, ecological skills and ESG. I am grateful for all the skills and knowledge I gained from this master’s during my time at University of Galway.

Studying abroad as a graduate student at University of Galway was a transformative experience that extended far beyond the classroom. From morning walks along Galway Bay to in-depth literature lectures and engaging conversations with classmates, every day offered a balance of academic challenge and personal growth. Joining the International Student Ambassador Program allowed me to build meaningful connections, support other international students, and proudly represent the university on global platforms. Writing my dissertation was both a demanding and rewarding process, culminating in an unforgettable graduation shared with my family. Galway quickly became more than just a place to study—it became a second home, shaping my perspective, expanding my horizons, and helping me grow in ways I never anticipated.


Applications for postgraduate programmes open each year on October 1st for admission the following September. Our next admissions cycle will open on 1st of October 2025 with programmes commencing September 2026.

In order to make an application you must first create an account by logging in here.

Offers to our postgraduate programmes are made on a rolling basis. So the earlier you apply the earlier you will know if you have been successful. In addition some porgrammes have a specific deadline so please check course pages carefully.

Our postgraduate prospectus is online (University of Galway Postgraduate Prospectus 2025) The course contact person can be contacted for further information on the course if required. You will find an email contact for the postgraduate programme directors on the individual programme webpages or please email postgrad@universityofgalway.ie

All applicants whose first language is not English must present a recognised English language qualification. Please click here for further information.


Register your interest with the University of Galway


Main campus

University of Galway

Galway

Ireland