University of Galway Access Centre

04/06/2026

01/06/2026

Thinking about returning to education?

Jillian enrolled in the Access Programmes Business Foundation Course at University of Galway to see if she was still capable of studying after time away from education. What she gained was far more than she expected.

"I would highly recommend the Business Foundation course at the University of Galway to anyone considering a return to education, particularly if, like me, you've been away from studying for some time. I initially chose this course to test whether I was still cognitively capable of learning again, and it exceeded my expectations. The content was delivered in a clear and accessible way, making subjects like accounting and economics much easier to understand, and my confidence grew steadily throughout. The lecturers were supportive and approachable, which made a real difference to my experience. In addition to building my knowledge, I developed important study and time management skills. Overall, the course gave me a strong foundation for progressing to the BA in Commerce and, more importantly, the confidence to know that I can succeed."

If you're a mature student considering a return to education, our part-time Access Foundation Programmes provide a supportive pathway into higher education. Find out more here https://www.universityofgalway.ie/access/entryroutes/accessandfoundationprogrammes/

29/05/2026

Sometimes all it takes is one opportunity.

In this video, Rinalds shares his journey to higher education and how the Access Foundation programme helped him build confidence and pursue his passion for psychology.

His story shows what's possible when people are supported to realise their potential and take the next step in their education.

Watch Rinalds' story below.

Find out more about our Access Programmes and part-time Foundation Studies programmes at https://www.universityofgalway.ie/access/entryroutes/accessandfoundationprogrammes/

27/05/2026

Fantastic morning at the University of Galway Community Engagement Showcase ✨

Great to connect with community partners and explore the many opportunities for collaboration and engagement across the university ecosystem.

We were inspired by the conversations and interactive workshops focused on strengthening connections between the University and the wider community, sharing ideas, experiences, and future opportunities for impact.

The Access Centre was delighted to engage with colleagues and external partners working to create more inclusive pathways to education, participation, and lifelong learning 💙

Looking forward to continuing these conversations and building new opportunities for collaboration.

24/05/2026

Tá níos mó ná bealach amháin chun na hollscoile. Faigh amach faoi Chláir Rochtana in Ollscoil na Gaillimhe.

Cuir tús le d'aistear linn! Is é an spriocdháta d'iarratais ná: 1 Meán Fómhair 2026

Tuilleadh eolais: https://www.universityofgalway.ie/access/entryroutes/accessandfoundationprogrammes/

19/05/2026

Are you on campus during the summer months? ☀️

Our Multi-Sensory Room is available to support students who may experience sensory overload or who benefit from a calm, low-stimulation environment.

Designed to help with self-regulation and relaxation, the room includes:
✨ Adjustable lighting and visual effects
🎵 Gentle sound and vibroacoustic features
💫 Soft furnishings and sensory items

📍 Arts Millennium Building, Ground Floor (AMB–G002)
🕒 Available to book in 45-minute sessions

Book online via https://portal.sportskey.com/venues/university-of-galway-student-services

📧 Please use your University of Galway email address when signing up.

17/05/2026

📢 We’re Hiring: Schools/FET Outreach Coordinator

The Access Centre at University of Galway is looking for a Schools/FET Outreach Coordinator to lead outreach and engagement activities with DEIS schools and Further Education and Training (FET) providers.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone with experience in education, outreach, widening participation, or student support who is passionate about improving access to higher education for underrepresented groups.

📍 Permanent, full-time role
📍 Grade 4
📍 Based in the Access Centre, University of Galway
📅 Closing date: Thursday, 4 June 2026 at 5.00pm

To apply, visit the University of Galway Vacancies page:
https://www.universityofgalway.ie/about-us/jobs/

Click on Administration Vacancies and look for Schools/FET Outreach Coordinator.

Please share this post with anyone in your network who may be interested or who would be a great fit for the role.

14/05/2026

Yesterday at Leinster House, at the invitation of Minister James Lawless TD Heads of Access from Irish Universities Association universities and representatives from the Technological University sector to brief TDs and Senators on the DARE and HEAR schemes.

Representing University of Galway, Imelda Byrne, Head of the Access Centre, highlighted the changing nature of access to higher education. She spoke about the complex and intersectional disadvantages many students face, the level of expertise required to support them effectively, and the investment needed to ensure students not only access higher education but succeed and thrive throughout their studies.

DARE and HEAR are central to the commitment to widening participation in higher education, supporting students whose educational opportunities may be affected by disability or socio-economic disadvantage.

The Access Centre at University of Galway is proud to contribute to this national effort to ensure that every student with the ability and ambition to succeed has the opportunity to do so.

12/05/2026

🎓 Access Programme at University of Galway

The Access Programme is a one-year pathway into University of Galway for students who have the potential to succeed but may not meet traditional entry requirements due to educational disadvantage, personal circumstances, or those who have taken the decision to return to education as a mature student to upskill.

Open to both School-Leavers and Mature Students, our programme provides a supportive route into university, with full-time and part-time (Foundation Programme) options available for Mature Students.

On completion, students are awarded a Diploma in Foundation Studies, creating a clear pathway into undergraduate study.

👉 Applications are now open!
https://www.universityofgalway.ie/access/entryroutes/accessandfoundationprogrammes/

11/05/2026

A useful article in the Irish Times explaining the SUSI Grant for undergraduate students.

Ask Brian: Maintenance grants and fee grants are available to eligible undergraduate students