A Guide to Part-Time study at University of Galway

Are you considering taking a part-time course but don’t know where to start? This blog post will walk you through the various opportunities for part-time study available at the University of Galway.

If you’re contemplating studying part-time at the University of Galway in 2024, now is the ideal time to start looking and do your research. The following information will help to you narrow down your search.

First Question: Have you attended college previously?

NO: If you haven’t been to University before, and feel that you need to do a foundation course to get you started on your learning journey, you can apply for a part-time Access course. Access courses provide a supportive educational environment which prepares students academically and personally for a full-time undergraduate degree, part-time degree or diploma course at third level. Additionally, if you’re over 23 years of age, you can apply for a full-time undergraduate degree as a Mature Student.  For our part-time courses, the entry age is 21 years.

YES: If you have been to university before, it is advisable to check the NFQ Level of your last qualification. This will provide you with an understanding of your qualification and can highlight your pathway for progression. For example, if you currently have a Level 7 bachelor’s Degree, it would be best to look at Level 8 courses or higher. Once you have determined the level you wish to study at, University of Galway has a range of part-time study options to suit the flexible learner.

The image above outlines the various part-time courses currently available at University of Galway:

• Adult Learning part-time courses
  2024/25 courses are available on our website, with applications open from 1^st April
• Postgraduate part-time courses
  Online applications are currently open, deadlines may vary (please refer to individual course pages for details).
• Micro-credentials
  2024/25 courses are available on our website, with applications open from 1^st April
• Springboard+ & HCI Pillar 1 courses
  Pillar 1 courses are currently open and our Springboard courses will be announced shortly, with online applications available on springboardcourses.ie

For international students or those preferring fully online courses, an online course listing is available. Unsure if online learning suits you? Visit our Discover Online Learning webpage for further information.

Next Steps

1. Visit our ‘help choosing your course’ webpage to guide you in selecting the perfect course.
2. Thoroughly review the course webpage, noting important dates, mode of study, course fees, and entry requirements.
3. Contact the course co-ordinator/administrator of your chosen course (under the Find out more tab) on the course webpage
4. Don’t forget that you can apply through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) if you don’t meet the entry requirements but feel that you have adequate experience.

Remember:

“There is no such thing as a stupid question.”

Everyone’s learning journey is unique, and discussing your options can be invaluable. The experienced staff at the Centre for Adult Learning & Professional Development are ready to assist you via phone calls, video calls, or in-person meetings.

Phone: 091 494066
Email: adultlearning@universityofgalway.ie
Website: universityofgalway.ie/adult-learning

Embarking on part-time study can be an enriching experience, opening doors to new opportunities and personal growth.