Mature Students Guide
FULL-TIME DEGREE PROGRAMMES 2015
Did you know?
3
NUI Galway is now the only Irish university to
increase its position in the two main international
rankings -the QS World University Rankings and the
prestigious Times Higher Education World University
Rankings, 2013-2014.
93% 1st
We are one of Ireland’s
top universities for
graduate employability,
with over 93% of our
graduates working
or in further study
within six months of
graduating.
2%
We rank among the
top 2% of universities
in the world for the
quality of our teaching
and research.
Our student completion
rate is higher than
any other university in
Ireland, at 86%.
400
million
€
We are in the final
stages of a €400
million capital
investment programme,
which has transformed
the campus and given
students and staff
access to the very best
facilities for teaching
and research.
Three of our scientists
have been named in the
“World’s Top 100 Most
Influential Scientific
Minds: 2014” by the
multinational media body
Thompson Reuters.
1,000
We are leading the way
in student volunteering
and civic engagement.
More than 1,000
students gave 30,000
hours of voluntary
activity in the last year.
10%
Tá 10% de mhic
léinn na hOllscoile ag
déanamh staidéir ar an
nGaeilge nó trí mheán
na Gaeilge.
1.
Welcome to NUI Galway
4
Facilities
6
Inspirational Teachers
7
Real Learning
8
Your Career
10
What is a Mature Student
12
What Our Mature Students Say
14
2.
Pathways to University
17
The Access Course for Mature Sudents 18
Diploma in Foundation Studies - Science, Technology and Engineering 19
Diploma in Foundation Studies - Business and Law
20
3. Undergraduate Degree Programmes and Entry Criteria
The College of Arts, Social Sciences, and Celtic Studies 21
Acadamh na hOllscolaíochta Gaeilge
23
College of Business, Public Policy, and Law
24
College of Engineering and Informatics
26
College of Medicine, Nursing, and Health Sciences
28
College of Science 30
4. How to Apply as a Mature Student 32
Financial Information 34
Funding Options
35
Frequently Asked Questions
36
5.
Appendix 2014 Leaving Certificate Points
38
Campus Map
39
Disclaimer; Whilst every effort is made to ensure contents are accurate, the Mature Students Guide
is issued only for the guidance of students. It does not impose or infer any legal obligations on the
National University of Ireland Galway. Course syllabi, fees, regulations or other information given
may be altered, cancelled or otherwise amended at any time. The Mature Students Guide does not
confer any rights on a student registered for any course of study.
4
Mature Students Guide - Full-Time Degree Programmes 2015
Welcome to
NUI Galway
With more than 17,000 students, NUI Galway
is one of Ireland’s most popular universities
for undergraduate study. 16% of the student
population is made up of Mature Students, with 252
commencing First Year full-time studies in 2014.
5
NUI Galway is one of only three Irish universities to move up
the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings
for 2013-14. With an increase of 22 places, NUI Galway is now
ranked 314th in the the rankings 2013-2014.
The University was also awarded the top rating of five stars
in the QS Stars International rating for – teaching, research,
internationalisation, engagement, innovation and infrastructure.
NUI Galway has a dedicated Mature Students Officer, Trish Bourke,
who will advise and support you, before and during your studies.
Ground Floor, Áras Uí Chathail
T: +353 (0)91 492695
E: maturestudents@nuigalway.ie
www.facebook.com/NUIG.MatureStudentOffice
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Mature Students Guide - Full-Time Degree Programmes 2015
Facilities
Some of our new facilities include:
• A state-of-the-art Sports Centre
• A dedicated Student Centre and Cultural Hub
• Ireland’s largest School of Engineering, opened in July 2011
• A brand new School of Psychology, opened in September 2013
• The Hardiman Research Building - a new facility for Arts,
Humanities and Social Sciences students, opened in April 2013
• A brand new building for Biomedical Science Research, opened
in Autumn 2013
• A new building for Medicine students is currently under
construction
7
Inspirational
Teaching
Professor Patrick Lonergan
Professor Donncha O’Connell
Professor of Drama and
Theatre, director of the Druid
Academy and academic leader
of the Abbey Theatre Digital
Archive project – the world’s
largest digital theatre archive!
Donncha is an expert in
Constitutional Law and Human
Rights with a particular interest
in the status of international
human rights standards in
domestic law. He is a member
of the Law Reform
Commission and Legal Aid
Board and was previously,
the Director of the Irish
Council for Civil Liberties.
Professor Alan Ahearne
Head of Economics, Advisor
to the IMF and Director of
the Central Bank of Ireland
– inspiring students to think
about real-world challenges in
new and different ways.
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Mature Students Guide - Full-Time Degree Programmes 2015
Real
Learning
At NUI Galway, we believe that the best
learning happens when you apply what
you learn in a real world context. That’s
why many of our courses include work
placements or community projects.
9
Find out more:
www.socs.nuigalway.ie
www.nuigalway.ie/cki
www.student-connect.nuigalway.ie
www.su.nuigalway.ie
Over 70% of our courses offer students
the opportunity to get work experience.
Over 40 of our degree programmes
include a community-learning opportunity
involving 1,600 students and over 100
lecturers. You will have the chance to work
locally and internationally and develop
invaluable life skills. This real learning
experience will benefit you when you enter
the job market, as employers look for wellrounded individuals with a good mix of
knowledge and experience.
10
Mature Students Guide - Full-Time Degree Programmes 2015
Your
Career
NUI Galway is one of Ireland’s
top two universities for graduate
employability, with 93% of our
graduates employed or in further
study within six months of
graduating.
11
1,924
NUI Galway secured 1,924
internships for students with
employers all over Ireland.*
New employers who took placement students
include Bord Gáis, Goldman Sachs and Shell.
*Source: U-Multirank 2012/13
Did you know?
401
The number of employers
our students had access
to on campus this year.
New employers who
came on campus to
recruit students this year.
What our employers say
“We employ NUI Galway graduates because they
are results-focused, adaptable and confident with
excellent communication and analytical skills.”
Jennifer O’Neil,
Management Consulting Analyst at Accenture
NUI Galway graduate employability
rate increase year-on-year
91%
2009
93%
92%
2010
2011/12
% of graduates working or in future
study within six months of graduating
Find out more:
www.nuigalway.ie/careers
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Mature Students Guide - Full-Time Degree Programmes 2015
What is a
Mature Student
You will qualify as a mature applicant for full-time study if you are
at least 23 years of age on or before 1st January in the year you
submit your application and if your Leaving Certificate qualifications
are insufficient for standard admission. Therefore, to apply to NUI
Galway for the academic year 2015, your birth date must be on
or before January 1st 1992 and you must have lived in an EU/EEA
Member State for three of the last five years.
Students attending university on a full-time basis are generally not in
full-time employment, hence they can attend lectures, tutorials and
work on assignments. However, if you are in full-time employment
you are advised to look at part-time study options which are
available at www.nuigalway.ie/adult-learning
What courses do you qualify for?
Applying as a mature student, you
would be considered for all current
NUI Galway undergraduate degree
programmes. However, specific
criteria do apply in many cases.
I am thinking of going to university. Where do I start?
Unless you have a clear idea of what you want to study
it can be difficult to know where to begin. As a starting
point, log onto www.careerdirections.ie and do the career
directions test. This gives you some insights into the career
area that would suit you. Once you have an idea of areas
you might want to work in, do some research in that career
area on www.gradireland.com and check out what type of
qualifications are required.
There may be many routes to get the qualifications you
require for the career area you have chosen, therefore do
not rule it out as something you cannot achieve, there
may be alternative options open to you. Once you have
identified the type of course that will help you reach
your career goal, read the Undergraduate Prospectus
which gives you detailed descriptions on the degree
programmes.
Mature Student Support
The following are a number of student support services
that you can avail of:
Return to Learning programme
The Return to Learning programme is offered in
August and comprises of a series of workshops. These
workshops include practical study skills sessions, memory
techniques, practical computing and advice on making the
transition to third level education as well as information on
the support services in the University. These workshops
provide you with an opportunity to meet fellow mature
students, make friends, and familiarise yourself with our
campus before commencing your study at NUI Galway.
Academic skills workshops
NUI Galway runs a number of practical skills workshops
throughout the academic year ranging from academic
writing, research skills, and practical study skills to revision
techniques and exam preparation.
Appointment based service
The service provides an opportunity for prospective
students to meet staff for an informal chat about planning
a return to full-time education. The Mature Students Office
operates an appointment based service.
Find out more:
www.nuigalway.ie/mature
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Mature Students Guide - Full-Time Degree Programmes 2015
What our Mature
Students Say
Arts Student Owen Ward
From Galway, I completed the Access Course for
Mature Students at NUI Galway in 2010. Upon
successful completion of this part-time course, I
started a full-time degree in Arts with Human Rights
in the University. I have just finished my final year
and am now entering an M.A. in History. As a mature
student I have had the opportunity of running the
Mature Students Society for a number of years
and helped found the Galway Brasov Group, where
we are currently raising funds and awareness for
disadvantaged children in Romania. As a mature
student I have gained confidence in my abilities and
developed many academic attributes which I will
continue to use while studying for my Masters.
15
Engineering Student Jarek Jakubowicz
I moved from Poland a few years ago where I completed my high school diploma.
I did not have the opportunity to progress to a University when I was younger. I
worked in the building industry for years and was very interested in NUI Galway’s
full-time degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering. I needed maths and
science for this degree so enrolled in the Diploma in Foundation Studies in
Science, Technology and Engineering in 2013. I was thrilled to get such high
grades in the course which has now led me to my first year as an engineering
student at NUI Galway on a course that truly excites me.
Law Student Carmen Filioreanu
Originally from Romania, I always had an interest in
law particularly how it worked in business. My friend
advised me to do the Foundation Diploma Course in
Business which I started in 2013. I learned so much
on the course including economics and accountancy.
I met wonderful tutors who helped me prepare to
go on to a full-time degree in Corporate Law. I am
thrilled that I have now started first year of Corporate
Law at NUI Galway. Already I have met fellow mature
students and feel ready for the next 3 years of study.
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Mature Students Guide - Full-Time Degree Programmes 2015
Science Student Niamh Kinnarney
NUI Galway mature student, Niamh Kinnarney won an eight-week
EIL Travel Award to Turkey in summer 2014. Zoology student, Niamh
is passionately involved in various conservation projects and has
a particular interest in conserving the Irish honey bee. Winning
this award let her work on a project in Dalaman, Turkey where she
volunteered on a sea turtle conservation project.
Niamh said, “I was absolutely over the moon to win and hope to
make a career in conservation so this experience is invaluable
in raising community interest and to get people involved in local
conservation.”
The Mature Student Travel Award is open to full-time third level
mature students across the country in all Universities and NUI
Galway is proud to have won this scholarship two years in a row by
truly inspiring Mature Students.
17
Pathways to University
Individuals who are well prepared academically and have good computer skills prior to
commencing a full-time degree are capable of working to deadlines, completing assignments
and sitting exams, however, if you have been out of formal education for several years, perhaps
start with a short course that introduces these skills to you. There are many education options
available to you at NUI Galway to prepare for university, including the Access programmes,
Foundation courses and Adult Education programmes.
For more information on Adult Education programmes please visit
www.nuigalway.ie/adult-learning or email onlinelearning@nuigalway.ie
Here are some suggested routes in to university as a mature student:
1
2
3
“I do not have a Leaving Certificate”
Pre-University Access or Foundation
course relevant to the degree you
wish to study. (See pages 18-20)
“Yes, I do have a Leaving
Certificate and completed it
within the past 5 years”
Check mature student criteria for
entry to desired degree and if you
meet it, apply for university.
“I do not meet the entry criteria
for the desired degree”
Consider pre-University Access or
Foundation course relevant to the
degree you wish to study.
(See pages 18-20)
4
“I have the recognised Leaving
Certificate points and
matriculation subjects”
Apply to university through the
CAO system and include your
Leaving Certificate year and exam
number.
5
6
7
“I am currently enrolled on a
FETAC course and am over 23”
Refer to
www.nuigalway.ie/admissions for
details of recognised FETAC
courses and results required.
“I have completed a Level 7
Ordinary Degree”
Apply to university but check you
meet the mature student criteria for
your desired degree and contact
SUSI for information on Free Fee
Tuition Entitlements
“I started third-level education
but I dropped out”
You must be five years out of a
third-level education to be
considered for free tuition fees
and grants.
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Mature Students Guide - Full-Time Degree Programmes 2015
The Access Course for Mature Students
(from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds)
The Access Course is one year part-time daytime/evening course that aims to provide mature
students with the opportunity to prepare, personally and academically, for an undergraduate course of
full-time study of at least three years duration at NUI Galway.
The course is designed to meet the learning needs of the adult student; to provide individual attention
and assistance where appropriate; and to provide financial support, contingent upon funding.
Intended for
The Access course is designed specifically for
people who may not have the conventional
educational requirements and/or who come
from socio-economic backgrounds that are
underrepresented at third-level. The aims of
the course is to enable students to acquire
the skills, knowledge and confidence to
compete on an equal footing with those
students who enter NUI Galway through the
conventional entry channels.
Entry requirements
There are no specific entry requirements,
such as Leaving Certificate or aptitude tests,
but typically candidates will have a keen
interest in reading and learning in general,
and will aspire to continue their education to
degree level and/or beyond. Applicants must
be 22 years of age or over on 1st January in
the year of application.
Duration and attendance
The Access course for mature students is a
one year (part-time daytime/evening)
course which aims to provide mature
students with the opportunity to prepare,
personally and academically, for an
undergraduate course of full-time study
(3+ years duration) at NUI Galway and
St. Angela's College, Sligo.
Classes are held on two / three
days/evenings per week and one Saturday
per month (10am - 4.30pm) Private (home)
study is an integral and important part of the
course, and students have the opportunity to
attend some undergraduate lectures on
campus (by arrangement).
Assessment
The criteria for successful completion of the
Access course involve satisfactory attendance
and performance in all elements of the
programme, which include written /oral
assignments and essays. Students’ academic
progress is measured through a process of
continuous assessment - written and oral - as
well as end of term examinations.
Award
Participants who successfully complete the
Access Course will receive a Diploma in
Foundation Studies (level 6) from NUI
Galway, and will be eligible to apply for
direct entry (via the CAO) to full-time
University degree courses* in the faculties of
College of Arts, Social Sciences and Celtic
Studies; College of Science; College of
Engineering & Informatics; College of
Business, Public Policy and Law: (* in certain
instances, interviews with the Department / College
Head may also be required).
Costs and application
Course costs for those selected are borne by
the University, contingent upon funding.
Applications are generally available from
mid-April to May. Further information is
available at www.nuigalway.ie/access
For more information, contact
Access and Mature Students Office
Ground Floor Áras Uí Chathail
T: +353 (0)91 493553
E: access@nuigalway.ie
W: www.nuigalway.ie/access
19
Diploma in Foundation Studies
– Science, Technology and Engineering
Intended for
The Diploma in Foundation Studies –
Science, Technology and Engineering is a
one year part-time evening course that aims
to provide mature students with the
opportunity to prepare, personally and
academically, for an undergraduate course of
full-time study of at least three years
duration at NUI Galway or GMIT in areas
such as Science/Engineering or Information
Technology.
Entry requirements
No specific entry requirements, but Leaving
Certificate is desirable.
Duration and attendance
The course runs from September to May for
26 weeks, two evenings per week and also
consists of one Saturday per month.
Classes are held on Tuesdays (7pm-9pm),
Thursdays (7pm-9pm) and one Saturday
per month (10am-5pm).
The course includes Physics, Chemistry,
Biology and Mathematics. Educational
Guidance, Academic Writing, Information
Technology Skills and Study Skills are also
taught on the programme.
Assessment
The criteria for successful completion of the
Foundation Diploma course involves
satisfactory attendance and performance in
all elements of the programme, which
include written / oral assignments and
essays. Students’ academic progress is
measured through a process of continuous
assessment - written and oral - as well as end
of term examinations.
Award
Participants who successfully complete the
Foundation Diploma Course will receive a
Diploma in Foundation Studies (level 6)
from NUI Galway, and will be eligible to
apply for direct entry (via the CAO) to fulltime university degree courses* in the
College of Science; College of Engineering
& Informatics; College of Medicine/
Nursing and Health Sciences
(* in certain instances, interviews with the
Department / College Head may also be required).
Costs and application
Course costs are generally €380 for
employed people and €60 for Social Welfare
recipients.
The online application system can be
found on the mature students’ website
from June/July 2015.
For more information, contact
T: +353 (0)91 492 695
E: maturestudents@nuigalway.ie
W: www.nuigalway.ie/mature
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Diploma in Foundation Studies
– Business and Law
Intended for
The Diploma in Foundation Studies –
Business and Law is a one year part-time
evening course that aims to provide mature
students with the opportunity to prepare,
personally and academically, for an
undergraduate course of full-time study of
at least three years duration at NUI Galway
or Galway Mayo Institute of Technology in
areas such as Business or Corporate Law.
Entry requirements
No specific entry requirements, but Leaving
Certificate is desirable.
Duration and attendance
The course runs from September to May for
26 weeks, two evenings per week and also
consists of one Saturday per month. Classes
are held on Tuesdays (7pm-9pm),
Thursdays (7pm-9pm) and one Saturday
per month (10am-5pm). The course
includes Maths, Economics, and
Accountancy. Educational Guidance,
Academic Writing, Information Technology
Skills and Study Skills are also taught on the
programme.
Assessment
The criteria for successful completion of the
Foundation Diploma course involves
satisfactory attendance and performance in
all elements of the programme, which
include written / oral assignments and
essays. Students’ academic progress is
measured through a process of continuous
assessment - written and oral - as well as end
of term examinations.
Award
Participants who successfully complete the
Foundation Diploma Course will receive a
Diploma in Foundation Studies (Level 6)
from NUI Galway, and will be eligible to
apply for direct entry (via the CAO) to fulltime University degree courses* in the
College of Business, Public Policy and Law.
(* in certain instances, interviews with the
Department / College Head may also be required).
Costs and application
Course costs are generally €380 for
employed people and €60 for Social
Welfare recipients.. The online application
system can be found on the mature
students’ website from June/July 2015.
For more information, contact
T: +353 (0)91 492 695
E: maturestudents@nuigalway.ie
W: www.nuigalway.ie/mature
21
Undergraduate degree
programmes and entry criteria
College of Arts, Social Sciences,
and Celtic Studies
The College of Arts, Social Sciences, and Celtic Studies welcomes
students in languages, literature and philosophy, as well as in the
historical, legal, social, behavioral and mathematical sciences.
We work to enable students to have confidence in innovative and
creative forms of thought, to assess evidence and probabilities and to
develop informed critical judgment.
GY104
Bachelor of Arts
(Psychology)
now offered to
mature students.
Potential students should have a strong appetite for reading, argument, and analysis, and be eager
to explore different kinds of knowledge, and to articulate and defend their own opinions and
judgment.
The QUOTA indicates the number of places which are allocated specifically for mature student
entrants.
DEGREE PROGRAMME
CAO
CODE
CRITERIA
QUOTA
Bachelor of Arts (Omnibus Entry )
GY101
MSAP Exam
160
Bachelor of Arts (Public and Social Policy)
GY103
MSAP Exam
8
Bachelor of Arts (Psychology)
GY104
MSAP Exam
1
Bachelor of Arts History
GY105
MSAP Exam
5
Bachelor of Arts (Mathematics and Education) GY109
MSAP Exam and Honours Maths
2
Bachelor of Arts with Children’s Studies
GY110
MSAP Exam and interview may apply
2
Bachelor of Arts with Creative Writing
GY111
MSAP Exam and interview may apply
2
Bachelor of Arts with Film Studies
GY112
MSAP Exam and interview may apply
2
Bachelor of Arts with Human Rights
GY113
MSAP Exam and interview may apply
2
Bachelor of Arts with Irish Studies
GY114
MSAP Exam and interview may apply
2
Bachelor of Arts with Performing Arts Studies GY115
MSAP Exam and interview may apply
2
Bachelor of Arts with Latin American Studies
GY117
MSAP Exam and interview may apply
2
Bachelor of Arts in Drama, Theatre &
Performance Studies
GY118
MSAP Exam and interview may apply
2
Bachelor of Arts Journalism
GY119
MSAP Exam and interview may apply
1
Bachelor of Arts Youth and Family Studies
GY120
MSAP Exam
10
Psychology can also be studied through the Arts Omnibus
GY101 and mature applicants are encouraged to put both
programmes on their CAO application.
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Mature Students Guide - Full-Time Degree Programmes 2015
Assessment procedure
MSAP test registration period
Registration for MSAP opens in early
November 2014. You will receive two
Applications to the College of Arts, Social
Sciences and Celtic Studies programmes are
considered on the results of the Mature
Students Admissions Pathway exam held on
Saturday March 7th 2015.
your registration is processed. Registration
closes on February 8th 2015.
In addition, an interview may apply if
shortlisted for programmes GY110-GY119.
Galway Test Centre
Bailey Allen Hall, NUI Galway.
experience and demonstrate knowledge of
and passion for the degree applied for in your
CAO application. Not everyone who applies
for these programmes is called to interview.
Places are limited. Approximately 204 places
are allocated to mature students studying
full-time degree programmes in the College
of Arts, Social Sciences’ and Celtic Studies.
Other Test Centres
Test centres will be located in Cork, Dublin,
Mature Students Admissions
Pathway (MSAP)
assess the candidate's verbal reasoning skills.
Candidates are also required to complete
independently administered by ACER
(Australian Council for Educational
Research).
Steps to register for the MSAP assessment
1. Apply through the CAO at www.cao.ie
before 1st February
2. A CAO number is given to you via email
3. Apply directly to ACER to register for the
MSAP assessment at www.msap.acer.edu.au
before 8th February
4. Pay the fee of €75 by Diners Club,
Mastercard or VISA
assessment, materials required for the paper
test, provision of assessment results to the
candidate, and the transfer of results to the
CAO. Early application for the assessment is
advisable. If you do not have a credit card,
single use cards are available for purchase
from banks and shops for use on the
internet.
www.msap.acer.edu.au
made to accommodate applicants in their
preferred test centre. However, as capacity in
some test centres may be limited, places in
come basis.
On the day of the test you will be required to
present an original photo-bearing
current driver’s license, along with your
MSAP admission ticket.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Student cards
and Garda ID cards will not be accepted
need support for the exam you will need to
supply ACER with evidence of your
disability. Please see www.msap.acer.edu.au
for details.
Preparation
Practice papers, tips and supports are
available online at www.msap.acer.edu.au.
Your responsibility
You must have an active email account
and check regularly that messages do not
go to Junk Mail!
23
Acadamh na hOllscolaíochta Gaeilge
Is campas faoi leith é campas OÉ Gaillimh de bharr chomh gar is atá sé do Ghaeltacht
Chonamara. Úsáidtear an Ghaeilge mar chuid lárnach den saol sóisialta agus acadúil, agus
léirítear an timpeallacht shaibhir chultúrtha a bhaineann leis an dátheangachas sa chathair agus
san ollscoil.
Tá lárionad Acadamh na hOllscolaíochta Gaeilge in Áras na Gaeilge, ar champas Ollscoil na
hÉireann, Gaillimh. Bunaíodh Áras na Gaeilge i 1992 chun buanú agus sealbhú na Gaeilge a leathnú
agus a chur chun cinn i measc phobal na hOllscoile, idir mhic léinn agus fhoireann. Is ann a
reáchtáiltear cúrsaí Gaeilge do mhic léinn agus d’fhoireann na hOllscoile, agus cúrsaí ó dhámha eile
a chuirtear ar fáil trí Ghaeilge. Tá Ionad ag an Acadamh in Áras na Coiribe, freisin. Is ann atá Aonad
an Aistriúcháin lonnaithe.
Undergraduate degree programmes and entry criteria
The QUOTA indicates the number of places which are allocated specifically for mature student
entrants
DEGREE PROGRAMME
CAO
CODE
CRITERIA
BA (Cumarsáid)
GY106
Leaving Certificate Irish,
Irish Interview, Irish Written Test
5
as above
5
BA (Gaeilge agus Léann an Aistriúcháin) GY107
QUOTA
Interviews apply (MSAP does NOT apply to these programmes)
Applications
Work history or life experience
A detailed account of relevant life and work
experience is beneficial to your application.
Apply through the CAO before February 1st
2015. Please note that MSAP is not required
for any of the above programmes; however,
applicants for GY106 and GY107 will be
interviewed. Applications are considered on
an individual basis.
Personal statement
This should explain why you are motivated to
pursue a degree in your chosen area of interest.
How do you see your degree being an asset to
your future plans? Elaborate on any personal
interests or related activities which have
evolved from an interest in either the language
or the subject matter.
Assessment procedure
Candidates are assessed on the quality of their
Academic ability
Your history of academic achievements, in the
form of Leaving Certificate and other postLeaving Certificate results, will be considered;
therefore please include statements of exam
results with your CAO application.
13
24
Mature Students Guide - Full-Time Degree Programmes 2015
College of Business,
Public Policy, and Law
If you enjoyed business-related subjects and/or enterprise projects at second level and are
curious about how firms and markets operate, have a flair for business and decision-making
in organisations then Commerce may be for you.
The BComm degree is a comprehensive degree programme. You will take modules from each of
the business disciplines in your first two years of study. At the end of the second year you
choose an area to specialise in, matching your preferred area of specialisation with your
interests, skills and abilities.
Undergraduate degree programmes and entry criteria
DEGREE
CAO CRITERIA
CODE
Bachelor of Commerce
GY201
Criteria for selection include an assessment of the
candidate's ability to benefit from, and to undertake,
the programme. Experience and educational
background are taken into account. An aptitude for
Mathematics is beneficial. Interviews are not required
15
Bachelor of Commerce
GY202
Criteria as for GY201. In addition, you must submit
evidence of certificates/diplomas obtained studying
the French language
2
GY203
Criteria as for GY201. In addition, you must submit
evidence of certificates/diplomas obtained studying
2
GY204
Criteria as for GY201. In addition, a proven aptitude
for learning modern languages
Criteria as for GY201. In addition, an aptitude for
Mathematics (normally Leaving Certificate ordinary
level) is required
2
(International with French)
Bachelor of Commerce
(International with German)
Bachelor of Commerce
(International with Spanish)
Bachelor of Science
GY206
(Business Information Systems)
Bachelor of Commerce
10
GY207
Criteria as for GY201. Candidates should have studied
maths to Leaving Certificate standard or equivalent.
A good standard of English is an advantage. An aptitude
for Accountancy (normally Leaving Certificate
or equivalent) is desirable
2
GY208
GY208 Criteria as for GY201 and have a HC3 in Leaving
Certificate Irish.
Criteria include an aptitude for legal study, Accountancy,
Mathematics, and the likelihood of successful completion
of the course. Factors which may assist in determining
suitability include:
• Relevant work experience
• Relevant life experience
• Absence of previous opportunity to undertake
third-level education
• Leaving Certificate results and other educational
qualification
2
(Accounting)
Bachelor of Commerce
QUOTA
(Gaeilge)
Bachelor of Corporate Law
GY250
Bachelor of Civil Law
GY251
Criteria as for GY250
6
6
25
Did you know:
A Foundation Diploma course in
Business is available for prospective
mature students.
See page 20 for more information.
Applications
Apply through the CAO before February 1st 2015
Assessment procedure
Candidates are assessed on the quality of
no interviews. Emphasis is placed on the
criteria listed for each programme and on
the following:
Academic ability
Evidence of recent academic achievements
(within the past three years is desirable).
Work history or life experience
A detailed account of this is beneficial to
your application. An aptitude for
organisation, decision making and
management is desirable. Commitment to
your interests is sought.
Personal statement
This should explain why you are motivated
to pursue a degree in your chosen area of
interest and how you see your degree being
an asset to your future plans. Any personal
interests or business/language-related
activity would also be of interest.
26
Mature Students Guide - Full-Time Degree Programmes 2015
College of Engineering
and Informatics
doors as Queen's College Galway in 1849.
Today, the College consists of six disciplines; Civil Engineering, Electrical & Electronic
Engineering, Engineering Hydrology, Industrial Engineering, Information Technology, and
Mechanical and Biomedical Engineering.
Undergraduate degree programmes and entry criteria
DEGREE
CAO
CODE
CRITERIA
Bachelor of Engineering
(Undenominated)
GY401
A minimum of grade C3 in Leaving
QUOTA
15
in ordinary level Maths is desirable.
Special Maths Exam may apply.
Interviews are not required
Bachelor of Engineering (Civil)
Bachelor of Engineering
GY402
GY405
as above
as above
2
2
GY406
as above
2
GY408
as above
2
GY410
as above
2
GY413
as above
2
GY414
as above
2
GY350
as above
5
(Mechanical)
Bachelor of Engineering
(Electronic and Computer)
Bachelor of Engineering
(Biomedical)
Bachelor of Science
(Project and Construction
Management)
Bachelor of Engineering
(Energy Systems)
Bachelor of Engineering
(Electrical and Electronic)
Bachelor of Science
(Computer Science and
Information Technology)
Did you know:
A Foundation Diploma Course
in Science, Engineering and
Technology is available.
See page 19 for more information.
27
Applications
Apply through the CAO before February 1st
2015. Applications are considered on an
individual basis.
results. A Special Maths entry exam may apply
in some cases. If this is required you will be
notified and invited to attend in August.
Assessment procedure
Work history or life experience
A detailed account of this is beneficial to
your application, particularly when
applying for GY406 where knowledge of
business computing is essential.
Candidates are assessed on the quality of
required. Emphasis is placed on:
Academic ability
A minimum grade C3 in Leaving Certificate
Honours Maths or grade A/B in Ordinary
level Maths is required. Your history of
academic achievements, including Leaving
Certificate Science, IT and Technical
Drawing subjects, will be considered;
therefore please include statements of exam
Personal statement
This should explain why you are motivated to
pursue a degree in your chosen area of interest
and how you see your degree being an asset to
your future plans. Any personal interests or
related activity would also be of interest.
28
College of Medicine, Nursing College of Medicine, Nursin
and Health Sciences
and Health Sciences
Thestudents,
School ofincluding
Medicinemany
has an
enrolment of arou
The School of Medicine has an enrolment of around 800
from
overseas.
University
Collegecampus,
Hospital, convenien
overseas. University College Hospital, conveniently located
beside
the University
is thequalified
major teaching
School
is the major teaching hospital. School members are highly
and thehospital.
university
has members a
an extensive
well-funded
programme of med
an extensive and well-funded programme of medical research.
Theand
University
is committed
to providing
theof
most
up-to-date
to providing the most up-to-date facilities and resources
for the study
medicine
and facilities and re
health sciences at the Galway campus.
health sciences at the Galway campus.
GY501
Medicine now offered
to mature students.
Undergraduate
degree programmes an
Undergraduate degree programmes and entry
criteria
student entrants and which are subject to HSE approval student
on an annual
basis.
entrants
and which are subject to HSE app
DEGREE
CAO
CODE
CRITERIA
DEGREE
Nursing Science (General)
GY525
Aptitude Test
Nursing Science (General)
9
GY525
Apti
Nursing Science (Psychiatric)
GY526
Aptitude Test
Nursing Science (Psychiatric)
5
GY526
Apti
Midwifery
GY527
Aptitude Test
Midwifery
4
GY527
Apti
Occupational Therapy
GY502
Honours Leaving
Certificate
Science
Occupational
Therapy
2
GY502
Hon
Speech and Language Therapy
GY503
Podiatry
Medicine
GY504
GY501
Honours Leaving
Certificate
Science
Speech and
Language
Therapy
Honours Leaving
PodiatryCertificate Science
Honours Leaving
Certificate Laboratory
Medicine
Science e.g. Physics, Chemistry or Biology
(or equivalent). HPAT Test and short listing
applies to a Multiple Mini Interview (MMI)
18
QUOTACAO
CODE
CR
2
GY503
Hon
2
GY504
GY501
Hon
Hon
Scie
(or e
appl
2
18
29
Applications
Apply through the CAO for all listed programmes
before February 1st 2015.
Nursing and Midwifery Programmes
assessment procedure
Candidates are assessed on the quality of their
Selection is based on an aptitude test organised by
the Nursing Careers Centre. Details of the test are
available at www.nursingcareers.ie
experience preferably in a health care area.
Shortlisted mature applicants are invited to
There are no interviews
chosen programme.
programmes. Selection is based on an aptitude
test. Having applied through the CAO before
February 1st 2015, Mature Applicants must
also register and apply through the Public
Appointments Service (PAS) website
www.publicjobs.ie
assessment on behalf of the NCC.
Firstly you must log-on to www.publicjobs.ie and
if you have not previously registered and you are a
New User you must ‘Register’ before applying.
You must remember your User Name and
Password as you will require these to access your
Message Board for communications from the PAS
results, etc. Please do not confuse Registering
with Applying. Once you have registered you
must then access the application form, complete
available on www.publicjobs.ie at the end of
February, under the job category ‘Medical’, sub
category ‘Nurse/Nurse Management’ To register
and apply with PAS you should have to hand your
CAO number, a valid e-mail address and your
Personal Public Service (PPS) number (if you
have one).
Please note that once you have applied, you
are advised to check your Message Board
(located within your personal profile) for
communications from PAS. If you do not
complete all steps, your application will not be
considered valid and you will receive no
further consideration.
All information on the test and a comprehensive
booklet: Nursing/Midwifery: A Career for you
2015 is available at www.nursingcareers.ie.
Academic ability
or equivalent. Evidence of recent academic
achievements (within the past three years).
Work history or life experience
application. A detailed account of relevant work and
life experience in the caring profession is desired.
Personal statement
Candidates are assessed primarily on the quality
of their written CAO application, evidence of having
an honours laboratory Science subject from the
Leaving Certificate or equivalent and proven written
knowledge of the course and profession.
Please note that work placement is required in
certain years of study and may be based outside
Galway. Full details on work placement schedules
can be obtained from the College at the start of
the academic year.
Medicine Assessment Procedure
Laboratory Science - Chemistry, Physics or
or equivalent is required prior to taking the HPAT
test. Candidates must present a Health Professional
Admission Test score (HPAT –Ireland).
applicants. Based on this ranking, a small number
of applicants are invited to complete a Multiple
short interview stations. Each station is designed
medical professionalism such as communication
skills, team work, moral reasoning, and
ethical decisions.
accordance with the requirements for entry to
the medical programme. Registration closes on
Monday, 20th January 2015 and the test date is
Saturday, 28th February 2015. Information on
this test are available at www.nuigalway.ie/
medicine or www.nuigalway.ie/admissions.
30
Mature Students Guide - Full-Time Degree Programmes 2015
College of Science
Science has contributed significantly to the development of the global economy in recent
times. For example, our scientists are breaking new ground in stem cell and gene therapy
research and this cutting edge and innovative research feeds into our teaching, giving
students the best possible learning experience. NUI Galway’s Science courses are
structured yet flexible, so you can explore your interests and passions by undertaking a
Science degree.
Undergraduate degree programmes and entry criteria
DEGREE
CAO
CODE
CRITERIA
QUOTA
Bachelor of Science
GY301
Leaving Certificate Maths and Science
15
Bachelor of Science (Biomedical Science)
GY303
as above
3
Bachelor of Science (Biotechnology)
GY304
as above
3
Bachelor of Science (Environmental Science)
GY308
as above
3
Bachelor of Science
GY309
as above
3
Bachelor of Science (Marine Science)
GY310
as above
3
Bachelor of Science (Health and Safety Systems)
GY313
as above
3
Bachelor of Science (Earth and Ocean Sciences)
GY314
as above
3
Bachelor of Science
GY318
as above
3
(Financial Maths and Economics)
(Biopharmaceutical Chemistry)
Bachelor of Science (Mathematical Science)
GY319
as above
3
Bachelor of Science - degree options in
Applied Astrophysics, Biomedical, Theoretical
GY320
as above
3
31
Applications
Apply through the CAO before Februar y
1st 2015. Applications are considered on an
places allocated to mature students entering
the College of Science; this includes a
limited intake of 10% mature students per
programme.
Assessment procedure
Candidates are assessed on the quality of
no interviews. Emphasis is placed on:
Academic ability
Your history of academic achievements, in
the form of Leaving Certificate and other
post-Leaving Certificate results, will be
considered; therefore please include
statements of exam results with your CAO
application. Knowledge of mathematics and
at least one science-related subject from the
Leaving Certificate or equivalent is desirable.
Specific subject requirements
Good mathematical ability is required for
the programmes listed above.
Work history or life experience
A detailed account of this is beneficial to
your application.
Personal Statement
This should explain why you are motivated
to pursue a degree in your chosen area of
interest, how you see your degree being an
asset to your future plans, and any personal
interests or science-related activity which
has evolved from an interest in Science.
Did you know:
A Foundation Diploma Course
in Science, Engineering and
Technology is available.
See page 19 for more information.
32
Mature Students Guide - Full-Time Degree Programmes 2015
How to apply as a
Mature Student
Mature students should apply online through the Central Applications Office (www.cao.ie)
for all NUI Galway’s full-time undergraduate courses. The cost of applying through the
CAO is approximately €40. There is an online discounted rate of €25 if you apply before
the January 20th. It is important to complete the CAO application form thoroughly.
Supporting documentation such as exam results, current studies and a strong personal
statement are essential components of your CAO application for some programmes. If you
use the online application process you must forward your supporting documentation to the
CAO immediately afterwards with your name and CAO number clearly stated on each
document.
Do not send any documents to NUI Galway - these will not be reviewed.
Documentation that supports your application will only be considered for admission purposes
if it has been included with your formal application through the CAO.
The CAO also provides a comprehensive handbook, which includes information specific to
mature students and must be read carefully in advance of submitting a final application.
Visit www.cao.ie for more information.
Important
Your supporting documents must arrive in the CAO offices within seven days of your
submission of the online application.
It is of the utmost importance as a mature student that you ensure all relevant information,
including evidence of formal education, certificates, personal statements and other requested
documents, are included with your CAO application.
Omission of this information may affect the success of your application to NUI Galway.
33
When do you apply?
February 1st 2015 is the deadline for all
CAO applications. The CAO office must
have received your application and all
supporting documentation by this date.
Online applications are recommended for
admission to NUI Galway’s undergraduate
programmes.
Using a single CAO application, you may
choose from the entire range of courses
listed in this guide. You may apply for up to
10 courses in the Level 8 category and 10
courses in the Level 7 category. Please note
that all undergraduate degrees taught at
NUI Galway are Level 8 degrees.
Information for mature students
who are not accepted to 2015 entry
If you are a mature student who has
applied for Science/Engineering/
Technology or Business/Commerce and
have been unsuccessful, an email will be
sent to you advising you to apply for the
relevant Foundation Course in order to
meet the criteria for 2016 entry. This email
will be sent in late July.
If you are a mature student who has applied
for a degree in Arts, Law or Health Sciences
you may contact the Mature Students’ Office
in late July to discuss your application and
recommendations for 2016 entry.
How are applications assessed?
All applications are considered on the
grounds of mature numbers that are
received by the CAO closing date, 1st
February. These applications are processed
by the CAO office and forwarded to NUI
Galway. NUI Galway does not accept
direct applications to the University itself.
The University will review each application,
seeking evidence of your academic ability as
well as your interest in and aptitude for the
programme for which you have applied.
Refer to each college entry in this guide to
see the criteria required for each programme.
Post-CAO acceptance
• Registration: late August to late
September. Registration details will be
provided via email to all students after the
Leaving Certificate results are released
• Mature Students’ Return to Learning
Programme will run in late August/early
September
• Student Orientation occurs generally the
first week in September
• You will receive all information on the
Return to Learning programme and
Orientation in late August/September
2015 and you will be invited to register as
a student online.
For more information, contact
Central Applications Office
Tower House, Eglinton Street,
Galway City, Ireland.
T: +353 (0)91 509 800
E: info@cao.ie
W: www.cao.ie
34
Mature Students Guide - Full-Time Degree Programmes 2015
Financial Information
Returning to full-time education can place a strain on your finances. There are many factors to
be considered - rent, utility bills, food, travel and class materials for example. It is important to
evaluate whether you can financially afford to pursue a full-time degree.
Undergraduate Fees
EU undergraduate fees consist of three
elements:
1. Tuition Fee (tax exempt)
2. Student contribution charge
3. Student facilities levies (covers cost of
registration, examinations and student
services).
1. Tuition fee
Under the ‘free fees’ initiative from the
Department of Education and Skills, the state
pays the tuition fee for eligible full-time, nonrepeat undergraduate EU students who:
• Are first time undergraduates
• Hold EU nationality or official refugee status
• Have been ordinarily resident in an EU
member state for at least three of the five
years preceding their entry to an approved
full-time course.
If you do not satisfy the above criteria for ‘free
fees’, you may be eligible for ‘EU fees’. There
are two ways to qualify for EU fees, through
nationality or residency:
• Nationality: If the student holds EU
nationality or official refugee status and
where a student has received ALL his/her
full-time post-primary education within the
EU, but has not been resident for three of
the five years immediately prior to
university entry, the student is eligible for
EU fees. Euro nationality can be proved
with an EU passport, an original Irish Birth
Certificate, an original EU National
Identity Card or official Irish refugee status.
• Residency: The student’s principal
residence for the purpose of taxation must
have been in an EU member state for at
least three of the five years preceding their
entry to an approved third-level course.
(Prior residence as a full-time student alone
does not qualify a student for EU fee rates)
2. Student contribution charge
The student contribution charge, which will
be approximately €3,000 in 2015/16, is
payable by all students. However, students
who have applied and are successful in their
application for a higher education grant or
scholarship will have this student contribution
charge paid on their behalf by the scholarship
provider or higher education grant authority.
3. Student facilities levies
This is payable by all students and will be circa
€224 in 2015/16. Further information may be
obtained from the Fees Office.
If you do not qualify for free tuition fees.
If you do not qualify for the Free Fees
Initiative or a Student Grant, then you may be
liable to pay the full tuition fees for your
programme of study.
For all information in relation to fees and
related criteria, please refer to
www.nuigalway.ie/fees
The average monthly expenditure
of a traditional student are:
MONTHLY
Accommodation (rented)
Food, including a weekly
shop and food in college
Phone, TV and Internet
Course materials
Photocopying and printing
Electricity and oil
Social
Travel
Medical
Clothes
Laundry
Total (monthly average)
€
370
200
70
50
25
80
200
45
20
50
20
€1,130
Source: The National Consumer Agency.
www.itsyourmoney.ie/iym/budgetplanner
35
Funding options
• Student Grants
• Back to Education Allowance
(BTEA) (Department of Social Protection).
Student Grants (Higher
Education Grants)
Student Grants are applied for online and are
administered centrally through SUSI. If you
are eligible, it may cover all or part of your
fees and assist you with maintenance
payments to contribute to living expenses
while you study.
The residency requirement in the State for
grant eligibility is three out of the past five
years for new applicants, be a holder of an
EU passport and have official refugee status.
The duration of the break in studies required
for re-entry as an independently assessed
mature student is three years.
For more information contact
Department of Education and Skills
Student Support Unit
T: +353 (0)1 8734700 or
506 24386/24387/24383
W: www.studentfinance.ie or www.susi.ie
Student Grants (Higher Back to
Education Allowance (BTEA) for
full-time students
The Back to Education Allowance (BTEA)
for full-time students can be paid to those
who have been in receipt of social welfare
payments and wish to return to full-time
education. Typically, a claimant would have
to be in receipt of social welfare payments
for nine consecutive months or more prior
to returning to college, but there can be
exceptions to this rule, usually in cases
involving statutory redundancy. To see if you
qualify for BTEA check www.welfare.ie
Students in receipt of the BTEA are not
eligible for the maintenance portion of the
Student Grant. Such students should still
apply for a grant to pay their registration fees
(and in some cases, their tuition fees).
Social Welfare Payments for parttime students
It is possible for mature students who are
unemployed to attend part-time
programmes at NUI Galway and retain their
Jobseeker's Benefit ( JB) or Jobseeker's
Allowance ( JA) and associated secondary
benefits such as Rent Allowance.
Department of Social Protection
Unemployment Payments
1890 92 79 99
Pension/Invalidity Payments
1890 50 00 00
Lone Parent’s Allowance
1890 50 00 00
Disability Payments
1890 92 77 70
36
Mature Students Guide - Full-Time Degree Programmes 2015
Frequently Asked Questions
What full-time degree
programmes can I apply for?
All of NUI Galway’s degrees are open to
mature students. There are five colleges
within the National University of Ireland
Galway:
1. College of Arts, Social Sciences,
and Celtic Studies
2. College of Business, Public Policy,
and Law
3. College of Engineering and Informatics
4. College of Medicine, Nursing, and Health
Sciences
5. College of Science
Do I need a Leaving Certificate?
If you sat the Leaving Certificate between
1985 and 2014, you must supply your
Leaving Certificate number and the year the
exam was taken in your CAO application. If
you completed the Leaving Certificate prior
to 1985, please enclose the official results
with your application. It will be of benefit to
you to do so as your application to NUI
Galway will automatically be assessed on the
basis of your exam results if you do not
initially receive a place on the basis of mature
years. You can request a certified statement
of your results from the State Examinations
Commission at the following address:
Statements Section,
State Examinations Commission,
Cornamaddy, Athlone, Co Westmeath.
T: +353 90 6442808/6442810
E: statements@examinations.ie
W: www.examinations.ie
If you completed school leaving exams
outside Ireland, you should also include a
copy of your results and a certified English
translation of the transcript where
applicable.
Can I make a late application to NUI Galway after February 1st?
It is not possible to apply on the grounds of mature years after February 1st.
However, you may make a late application based on Leaving Certificate results only, up to
May 1st. Refer to the Leaving Certificate Points for 2014 at the end of this guide and read the
Undergraduate Prospectus for Matriculation Subject Requirements.
School-leaving examinations pre-1992
Points will be awarded from a single sitting as follows:
Grades
A
B
C
D
NUI Matric*
95
80
65
50
Leaving Cert Higher
95
80
65
50
* NUI Matric and Leaving Certificate results cannot be combined for scoring purposes.
Leaving Cert Ordinary
55
40
25
10
37
Applicants who took their school-leaving examinations prior to 1969 when grading was first
introduced may convert their marks to grades as follows:
Leaving Cert
Grade
%
A1
A2
B1
B2
B3
C1
C2
C3
D1
D2
D3
90-100
85-89
80-84
75-79
70-74
65-69
60-64
55-59
50-54
45-49
40-44
Can I use the change of mind
option for NUI Galway’s
programmes?
Paper marked out of
600
540-600
510-539
480-509
450-479
420-449
390-419
360-389
330-359
300-329
270-299
240-269
The change of mind option does not apply to
mature students applying through the CAO
for NUI Galway. February 1st 2015 is the
closing date for mature student applications.
Once you have submitted your CAO
application, a statement of your choices will
be sent to you in early February. Only at this
point may you add new choices to or delete
choices from your application, if desired.
Once you resubmit your confirmation of
choices, you can only reorder existing
choices up until offers are made in early July.
This means you should put your most
preferred choice of course at the top of the
list, then your second choice, and so on. In
accordance with CAO procedures,
applicants will only be offered their highest
successful preference so it is important that
you fill out your CAO choices in order of
genuine preference.
400
360-400
340-359
320-339
300-319
280-299
260-279
240-259
220-239
200-219
180-199
160-179
300
270-300
255-269
240-254
225-239
210-224
195-209
180-194
165-179
150-164
135-149
120-134
When will I know if my
application has been successful?
If you are offered a place at NUI Galway you
will receive official notification of this from
the CAO, usually in early July.
The date by which you must accept your
offer will be clearly stated on the CAO
notification. If CAO applicants do not
accept their offer by the stated date, then the
place is recalled to be offered to another
applicant (2nd round offers). It is
essential that you are aware of the date for
accepting your offer. You may accept your
offer online (www.cao.ie) in the event that
you are away from your address.
Your responsibility...
If you change your address any time
between February and the end of June you
to the correct address.
38
Appendix 2014 Leaving Certificate Points
Ref
GY101
GY103
GY104
GY105
GY106
GY107
GY109
GY110
GY111
GY112
GY113
GY114
GY115
GY117
GY118
GY119
GY120
GY201
GY202
GY203
GY204
GY206
GY207
GY208
GY250
GY251
GY301
GY303
GY304
GY308
GY309
GY310
GY313
GY314
GY318
GY319
GY320
GY350
GY401
GY402
GY405
GY406
GY408
GY410
GY413
GY414
GY501
GY502
GY503
GY504
GY515
GY516
GY517
GY525
GY526
GY527
Course
Arts
Arts (Public and Social Policy)
Arts (Psychology)
Arts (History)
Na Dana (Cumarsaid)
Na Dana (Gaeilge agus Leann an Aistriuchain)
Arts (Mathematics and Education)
Arts with Childrens Studies
Arts with Creative Writing
Arts with Film Studies
Arts with Human Rights
Arts with Irish Studies
Arts with Performing Arts Studies
Arts with Latin American Studies
Arts (Drama Theatre and Performance Studies)
Arts with Journalism
Arts (Youth and Family Studies)
Commerce
Commerce (International) with French
Commerce (International) with German
Commerce (International) with Spanish
Business Information Systems
Commerce (Accounting)
Commerce (Gaeilge)
Corporate Law
Civil Law
Science
Biomedical Science
Biotechnology
Environmental Science
Financial Mathematics and Economics
Marine Science
Health and Safety Systems
Earth and Ocean Sciences
Biopharmaceutical Chemistry
Mathematical Science
Physics
Computer Science and Information Technology
Engineering (Undenominated)
Civil Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Electronic and Computer Engineering
Biomedical Engineering
Project and Construction Management
Energy Systems Engineering
Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Medicine
Occupational Therapy
Speech and Language Therapy
Podiatry
General Nursing (Galway and Portiuncula)
Psychiatric Nursing
Midwifery
Mature Applicants General Nursing (Galway and Port
Mature Applicants Psychiatric Nursing
Mature Applicants Midwifery
Round 1
300
355
525
300
360
315
405
420
460
385
380
320
355
410
405
430
305
380
480
460
470
420
450
420
370
425
400
540
465
405
450
400
310
380
510
490
420
420
400
415
425
405
420
360
430
420
#721
515
510
465
450*
410
455
Round 2
*#721
445*
405*
Campus Map
Access and Mature Students Office is located on the Ground Floor, Áras Uí Chathail
Access and Mature
Students Office
NUI Galway App available on
iTunes, Android and Windows
Thank you to Bernie Higgins (First Year Arts Mature Student) for her photographic
contribution to this guide and to all the Mature Students who participated!
39
OPPORTUNITIES TO FIND OUT MORE
OCTOBER
NOVEMBER
JANUARY
Galway, Fri 3rd & Sat 4th
Bailey Allen Hall, NUI Galway
10am to 3pm
Athlone, Thurs 6th
Radisson Hotel
7pm to 9pm
Ballinasloe, Wed 15th
Gullanes Hotel
10am to 2pm
Ennis, Thurs 13th
Treacy’s West County Hotel
7pm to 9pm
Galway, Thurs 15th
Aula Maxima,
The Quadrangle, NUI Galway
6pm to 9pm
Oranmore, Thurs 16th
New Community Centre
10am to 2pm
Kildare, Thurs 20th
Osprey Hotel
7pm to 9pm
Mountbellew, Wed 22nd
Family/Pastoral Centre
10am to 2pm
Castlebar, Thurs 23rd
The Harlequin Hotel
7pm to 9pm
Claregalway, Thurs 30th
Claregalway Hotel
10am to 2pm
APRIL
Galway, Sat 25th
Bailey Allen Hall, NUI Galway
10am to 3pm
Further venues will be added throughout
the year. Please refer to
www.nuigalway.ie/mature/publicevents.html
Important Dates for Applicants
Nov 2014 CAO Application System Opens. (www.cao.ie)
Nov 2014 Mature Student Admissions Pathway (MSAP) registration opens. Online from
mid-November but no later than 8th February 2015. Late registration
(20th February 2015) incurs an additional fee. (www.msap-ie.acer.edu.au)
Nov 2014 Health Professionals Admissions Test (HPAT) Ireland registration. Online from
mid-November but no later than 20th of January 2015. Late registration incurs
an additional fee. (www.hpat-ireland.acer.edu.au)
Feb 1st 2015 CAO closes at 5.15pm for all mature applications.
Feb 28th 2015 HPAT assessment
Mar 7th 2015 MSAP assessment
Early July First round of Mature Student offers from the CAO. Be sure to reply by
the reply date, usually about a week after the offer.
National University of Ireland, Galway
Ollscoil na hÉireann, Gaillimh
+353 91 492695
maturestudents@nuigalway.ie
www.nuigalway.ie/mature
f
www.facebook.com/NUIG.MatureStudentOffice