National University of Ireland, Galway

About NUIG

NUIG first opened its doors to 63 students on 30th October 1849 and the University, then known as Queen’s College, Galway was born. The University was one of three Queen’s Colleges, the others located in Cork and Belfast.

In the first academic year, 1849—1850, the University began with three faculties, Arts, Medicine and Law but there were also schools of Agriculture and Engineering. Female students later joined the student body and in 1906 Alice Perry graduated from the college, believed to be the first female engineering graduate in the world to receive a first class honours degree in civil engineering.

NUIG is a research-led University with internationally recognised expertise in selected priority areas. Research at NUIG is forward-thinking and global in scale. Today NUIG is leading the field in a wide range of areas including stem cell and gene therapy research, human rights law, environmental change, and developing the next generation of internet technology.

About Galway

Galway, (in Irish `Gaillimh’), originally formed from a small fishing village located in the area near the Spanish Arch called `The Claddagh’ where the River Corrib meets Galway Bay. Galway later became a walled town in the year 1232 after the territory was captured by the Anglo Normans lead by Richard De Burgo. The town walls, some sections of which can be seen today near the Spanish Arch, were constructed circa 1270. A charter was granted in 1396 by Richard II which transferred governing powers to 14 merchant families, known locally as the 14 tribes of Galway.

Today Galway City is a thriving, bohemian, cultural city on the western coast of Ireland. Along with being a popular seaside destination with beautiful beaches and long winding promenade, it also has a buzzing cosmopolitan city centre. The city is a joy to explore with its labyrinthine cobbled streets, colourful shop facades and busy café/bar culture. The city is also well known for its many festivals throughout the year with huge crowds gathering for the annual Galway Arts Festival, Races and numerous other events. Old Ireland is present too with turf fires and traditional music featuring in many pubs and restaurants.

Galway is located in Western Ireland and is easily accessible by car, train and bus. Can’t miss elements of Galway city include a visit to McCambridge’s Food Emporium, shopping along Galway’s charming pedestrian streets and stepping back in time by visiting the Spanish Arch.

A Practical Guide to Ireland

Before You Go Abroad

Visas and Immigration
A Practical Guide to Ireland Placement Handbook

While You Are Abroad

Working while in Ireland
Code of Conduct