University of Galway

University of Galway is a research-led, globally focused university , inspiring minds since 1845 . As one of Ireland’s oldest and largest universities, we combine global ambition with a strong regional mission rooted in Galway City and the West of Ireland. University of Galway is Ireland’s leading bilingual university . We offer a distinctive academic environment where English and Irish language are embedded across teaching, research, and community engagement.

The University takes on global challenges, with our unique location on the Atlantic seaboard and at the edge of Europe placing us at the centre of internationally recognised strengths in medical technologies, data and IT, marine ecology and economy, and culture and the creative industries.

Internationalisation

University of Galway is a globally connected institution with a diverse academic community, we are proud to contribute to the diversity and dynamism of Galway City and the West of Ireland. With over 20,000 students, including 4,300 international students, and approximately 800 international staff from over 120 countries, international perspectives are a significant part of our teaching, research, and campus life. Our academic programmes are designed to prepare global graduates to succeed in an interconnected world.

Employability and Employer Reputation  

We are recognised as Ireland’s leading University for graduate employability, with an average Graduate Employment Rate of over 95% since 2017. Galway as a region is one of the world’s five leading global medical technology hubs, and the University maintains deep and sustained partnerships with multinational and indigenous employers across medical technology, life sciences, data, digital innovation, and advanced manufacturing.

These close industry connections shape curriculum design and provide students with access to work placements, internships, applied research projects, and graduate pathways, ensuring graduates are highly sought after by employers in Ireland and abroad. University of Galway is also Ireland’s leading university for student volunteering, which supports the development of globally aware, socially responsible work-ready graduates.

Sustainability and Societal Impact

Sustainability is central to University of Galway’s mission and strategy. We are committed to addressing the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through interdisciplinary teaching, research, innovation, and partnerships.

Placed 64th globally in the 2026 Sustainable Development Goals World Ranking , we achieved top 100 global rankings across multiple SDGs:

·          17th in SDG 12: Responsible Production & Consumption

·          38th in SDG 3: Good Health & Wellbeing

·          44th in SDG 17: Partnership for Goals

·          70th for SDG 6: Clean Water & Sanitation

·          71st for SDG 14: Like below Water

·          90th for SDG 11: Sustainable Cities in Communities

We are a recipient of the Gold STARS Award for Sustainability from ASSHE, a Silver Athena Swan Institutional Award, and 14 Athena SWAN School Awards.

Research Excellence and Academic Reputation

University of Galway is ranked 284th globally and 98th in Europe by QS. We are ranked among the world’s leading universities in 25 subjects.

Our research-intensive environment is supported by four Colleges:

·          Arts, Social Sciences & Celtic Studies

·          Business, Public Policy & Law

·          Engineering & Science

·          Medicine, Nursing & Health Sciences

We also have six interdisciplinary Research Institutes, including the Data Science Institute (DSI), Ryan Institute, Institute for Lifecourse and Society (ILAS), Institute for Creativity, Institute for Clinical Trials, and the Institute for Health Discovery & Innovation. Our researchers’ work is at the forefront of global societal challenges, contributing to innovative academic, social, and policy impact.

Campuses, Region, and Global Network 

University of Galway’s main campus spans 105 hectares along the River Corrib at the heart of Galway City. The University is also home to a network of regional campuses across the west and northwest of Ireland, including Gaeltacht campuses through Acadamh na hOllscolaíochta Gaeilge and the Shannon College of Hotel Management.

Our university employs over 2,700 staff and supports a global alumni network of 135,000 graduates worldwide. As one of the region’s largest employers, University of Galway plays a significant role in the economic, social, and cultural development of both Galway City and West of Ireland.

Guided by our University Strategy 2025–2030: Of Galway, For the World, we are committed to delivering a unique student experience while advancing global impact through education, research, and sustainability.

Our university is of Galway. From this unique place, our impact is global.