Study abroad in
Galway, Ireland

Maybe it’s the stunning coastline, or the rolling green hills, or the misty, mysterious weather; whatever the cause, the small city of Galway has long drawn musicians, artists, writers, and creative types to its charming streets. As you study abroad in Galway, you’ll enjoy the thriving theater and music scenes, browse the city's bustling markets, and feast on legendary seafood fresh from Galway Bay. Head to nearby Salthill for rowing, kayaking, and wind surfing, or take an Irish Gaelic language immersion program in the traditional village of An Cheathru Rua in Connemara. Whatever adventures you choose in Galway, you'll love immersing into Irish life in this quaint university town. Spend a semester, summer, or academic year studying abroad in Galway and explore Ireland's cultural heart.

CEA CAPA Related Links

Apply Now

Programs to love in Galway

University of Galway - Direct Enroll

University of Galway

Choose from University of Galway's entire—and extensive—course catalog. Take courses in a range of subject areas, from business to humanities, liberal arts to sciences, mathematics to languages, or focus your studies by enrolling in the Engineering & Computer Science Track or Marine Science & Biology Track. Take courses to fulfill your major or graduation requirements, or choose electives in your areas of academic or professional interest. This versatile, flexible program allows you to immerse into the Irish higher education system and study alongside Irish and other international students.

See Details

ST
SU
SE
YR
Starting at $21,995

Irish Language & Culture

University of Galway

Spend your summer immersed into Gaelic Irish language and culture in the village of An Cheathru Rua in Connemara, the heart of Irish-Gaelic-speaking Ireland. Field trips around the region and traditional Irish entertainment round out this incomparable experience; appropriate for beginning and intermediate language-levels.

See Details

ST
SU
SE
YR
Starting at $4,695

International Business

University of Galway

Study international business in this multi-disciplinary program that will help you develop knowledge of key concepts to use in your future professional life. Learn about economy and business management within the context of Irish business. This program includes a field trip to Dublin to meet key policy advisors and analysts.

See Details

ST
SU
SE
YR
Starting at $6,995

Irish Studies

University of Galway

This summer program offers an introduction to Irish Studies with a focus on identity, emigration, and religion. A variety of elective courses, field trips, dramatic performances, guided tours, and interdisciplinary seminars allow you to gain a deeper understanding of Irish people and culture.

See Details

ST
SU
SE
YR
Starting at $6,395

Ecology: Living Landscapes in the West of Ireland

University of Galway

Take a deep dive into Irish physical and social ecology through a dynamic combination of class seminars and fieldwork. Explore how Irish landscapes are created and maintained through both natural and anthropogenic activities.

See Details

ST
SU
SE
YR
Starting at $6,995

View all CEA CAPA Programs

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I study in Galway?

Studying abroad in Ireland is a life changing event for many students. When you study abroad in Galway, you experience learning outside the traditional classroom setting, gain international insight, and expand your sense of cultural awareness. You will experience new culture, food, and meet people from all over the world making lifelong friends and expanding your network. Plus, you get to travel to places you've only read about.

Is Galway expensive?

Galway is less expensive than Ireland’s capital city, Dublin. Ireland is an island, so expect higher prices due to imported products and high tourism rates. Reach out to your financial advisor to come up with a financial plan!

Is Galway Ireland safe?

Galway is a small city that ranks very low on the crime index and is considered one of the safest places to visit in Ireland.

Where will I stay in Galway?

CEA offers many housing options while you're studying abroad in Galway. In some study locations you may also have the option of arranging your own independent housing. For more information on housing, connect with your site specialist.

The CEA Galway study abroad programs offer several housing options for students depending on their preferences. Semester students are placed in student residence apartments located in the town center, while summer students are placed in student residence apartments located near the CEA Office and University of Galway campus.

Galway Housing options include:

Student Residence Apartment
Homestay (Mandatory for students in Irish Language & Culture program)
Independent Living

What is so special about Galway?

Galway is a university town with a thriving theater and music scene. The University of Galway is rated in the top 1% of global universities. It’s a unique place for students seeking a great balance between nature and city life. Galway is considered the cultural capital of Ireland because it’s filled with colorful cafes, popular pubs, and renowned arts and entertainment. You’ll get a glimpse into rich Irish heritage and history here, with locals still speaking the Irish language (Gaeilge) daily.

Where is Galway?

Galway is a harbor city on Ireland’s west coast, in the province of Connacht. Ireland’s second-largest city is just a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Dublin, and marks the halfway point on the 1,500-mile-long coastal road called Wild Atlantic Way.

What is Galway Ireland known for?

Galway is known as the festival capital of the country, hosting an average of 122 festivals and events every year. It’s also a top destination for Irish water sports and hiking at some of Ireland’s most popular natural attractions like Aran Islands, Connemara, Galway Bay, and Salthill beaches.

What's Included in your Program

From housing to excursions, our inclusions make studying abroad easy!

Personalized Pre-Departure Advising
Visa & Immigration Advising
Financial Advising
Tuition and Registration
Onsite Orientation
City Tour
Onsite Staff Support
24/7 Emergency Assistance
Travel Medical Insurance
International Emergency Service Support
Welcome & Farewell Events
Centrally Located Housing
Wellness Activities
Cultural Engagement
Language Exchanges
Volunteer Opportunities
Excursions
Student Clubs & Organizations
Host Institution Services & Amenities
Official Transcript(s)

Cliffs of Moher & County Clare

Dublin City

Kerry

Aran Islands

One of the benefits of studying abroad is the ability to venture outside your host city and explore the surrounding area. Excursions are offered for all semester, year, and summer programs. Semester students are typically offered between two to three excursions and summer students are typically offered between one to two excursions. You will receive a calendar of the specific CEA CAPA excursions offered for your program during orientation. To give you an idea of the possibilities, we have collected typical experiences from some of the day trips and weekend tours offered to our students in the past.

Cliffs of Moher & County Clare

Co. Clare, with its strong Celtic folklore influences, thriving music scene, and tranquil natural beauty, is the ideal destination for an escape from the city. Experience the Burren, famed for unique exposed limestone geography that’s home to a range of flora and fauna. Explore the cavernous caves, once home to wild bears that roamed the ancient Irish forest. Fill up on scrumptious seafood chowder and buttery soda bread as you take a lunch break in the coastal village of Doolin, famed for its traditional Irish music sessions. Next you’ll travel to the awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher, where you’ll experience the forces of nature as you explore terrain once inhabited by Celtic warriors; this natural spectacle never fails to impress. Finally, take in the fresh sea air in the quaint fishing village of Kinvara, site of the Dungaire Castle, once home to the legendary King of Connacht.

Dublin City

Dublin, Ireland’s capital city, is a Mecca for culture lovers. From the famous artwork of the Book of Kells, to the Bronze Age artifacts in the National History Museum, to the lyrical prose of James Joyce, Dublin caters to every taste. History lovers will enjoy the fascinating accounts of the 1916 Rising and Irish War of Independence commemorated across the city; in the General Post Office on O’Connell Street, you can still trace your fingers over bullet holes and learn about the courageous men who fought in the war. In addition to exploring Dublin’s riveting past, we’ll also stop by the Guinness Factory, the perfect place to sample Ireland’s number one export while learning about the scientific practices that lie behind the brewing of this popular tipple.

Kerry

Kerry is known as The Kingdom for good reason; it’s home to some of Ireland’s most magnificent scenery, from gorgeous Killarney National Park to the jaw-dropping beauty of the Dingle Peninsula. We’ll stray from the typical bus tour routes so you can experience these sites in a unique fashion, like early morning horse rides through the park and a gentle bike ride to Muckross House and Abbey. There is much to learn about the park’s flora and fauna, as well as the lives of the Kerry Chieftains that once resided there. No introduction to Kerry would be complete without a visit to Fungi the Dolphin—local fishermen will take you out to sea to meet Dingle’s biggest celebrity and learn about his Atlantic home. We’ll provide a tasty lunch under the canopy of trees at Torc Waterfall, and the evening includes time to relax and mingle with locals while experiencing the nightlife of Killarney town. The trip to Kerry offers a delicious combination of action, history, and nature that is sure to leave you spellbound.

Aran Islands

After a leisurely boat ride, spend the day exploring these enchanting Gaelic speaking islands by bike or foot. Little cottages decorate the magnificent landscape; you can even meander along the lovely beaches that dot the coastline. This trip makes for a peaceful, relaxing day in captivating surroundings.

Take advantage of the unique flavor Galway has to offer. CEA CAPA offers a variety of local cultural activities to match your interests. Whether you enjoy music concerts, clubs, sports, language exchanges or something entirely different, our resident staff can help you get involved in the local culture. Here are just some examples.

River Cruise

Enjoy spectacular views of the lake and surrounding countryside as you cruise River and Lough Corrib. We’ll provide a delicious dinner and musical accompaniment on board.

Theatre Performance

Get enthralled at one of the Druid Theatre’s colorful and exciting stage extravaganzas. Learn all about Irish fairytales and legends as this Galway-based theater company presents their unique vision of Ireland.

Set Dancing

Join the locals at the hugely popular Monroe’s Pub, a bustling Galway pub where the fantastic live bands provide lively accompaniment to Irish dancing classes. It’s an exciting, toe-tapping way to spend an evening!

Aughnanure Castle

Tour this picturesque Irish castle on the shores of Lough Corrib to learn about the great O’Flahertys, who once dined in the banquet hall and stood guard in the famous watch tower.

Greyhound Racing

Spend a fun evening at Galway Greyhound Stadium and test your luck with a flutter on the dogs! With over twenty stadiums around the country, the pastime of betting on dogs goes back hundreds of years and was a common undertaking across rural Ireland. Today, you can sit in a lovely restaurant or take in the elements trackside as you cheer on your top pick.

Gaelic Athletic Association

Witness modern-day Irish warriors defend their home country’s honor as they clash in the ancient sports of hurling and Gaelic football. The Gaelic Athletic Association provides professional-level sports viewing for avid fans in Galway.

Connemara Exhibit

Visit to Dan O’ Hara’s homestead and learn all about life in rural Connemara. You’ll also see turf cutting at the Roundstone Bog.

Claddagh Gold

Learn all about the process of making the famed Claddagh ring of friendship at Thomas Dillon’s shop, home of the Claddagh ring since 1790.

Quiet Man Cottage

Visit the cottage made famous by John Wayne and Maureen O’ Hara in the John Ford cinematic classic The Quiet Man.

Volunteer Opportunities

Through CEA CAPA’s partnership with the University of Galway Student Volunteering Programme, ALIVE, you can volunteer for a few hours per week to build knowledge and skills while contributing to your host community. The following are examples of volunteer opportunities offered at CEA CAPA Galway:

Scout Leaders: Scout leaders help facilitate exciting activities for kids ages six to 16. Scouts meet weekly to play games, organize competitions, and have a great time! Kids are grouped by age range; fun, frolicking, and the occasional night out are guaranteed.
Hospital Opportunities: Want to provide a vital service for children in hospital and their parents? Trained volunteers serve on PlayWell teams, organizing activities in wards and playrooms to make the hospital a happier place for children during their stay.
Disadvantaged Youth: Help deliver a range of quality programs for at-risk young people. You’ll empower Galway’s disadvantaged youth to be the best they can be by assisting with parent and youth health awareness, soccer, and summer programs.

Academic Help

Work with students who face learning difficulties or live with disabilities. Typical volunteer activities may include helping type students’ assignments, assisting with proofreading, providing one-on-one academic support, or helping strengthen computer literacy. This is a great way to support fellow students!

Content Creator Program

Want to build your digital portfolio while you study abroad? Apply to be a CEA CAPA Content Creator! You’ll blog, photograph, and video your experience abroad, then share your study abroad story on social media. While you're documenting your study or internship abroad, you'll be building your résumé and expanding your digital portfolio too.

Alumni Ambassador Program

Your study abroad adventure doesn’t have to end when your program is over. Keep sharing your study abroad love on your home campus…become an Alumni Ambassador! This internship allows you to help other students on their study abroad journeys while gaining work experience and growing your professional network.

Get up to $350 in Flight Credits or Grants toward study or internship programs when you apply by May 06, 2024

Apply Now

Receive up to a
$350
Flight Credit
when you apply by
May 06, 2024*

Get your flight credit code and access to Passbook in two easy steps. With Passbook, you can track your favorite programs and courses, save flight credits, and watch videos on the destination you're interested in.

*See Current Offers or Official Rules for details.

Get your flight credit

Step 1 of 2

What do you want to do?*

Where do you want to go?*

When would you like to go?*

Next Step

Step 2 of 2

First Name:*

Last Name:*

Email:*

Phone Number*:*

University:*

Promo Code:

Password:*

Submit

Back

*By providing your mobile number, you agree to receive recurring text messages from CEA CAPA Education Abroad notifying you of important program deadlines. Message and data rates may apply.

Privacy Policy | Mobile Terms | Flight Credit Rules

Your flight credit has been added to your Passbook. Apply now or view your Passbook to begin the next step in your journey.

Galway Housing

*Housing options may change term over term and will be confirmed on the housing application form prior to the start of the term. Below are the housing options that have been offered in the past.

Student Residence Apartment

Homestay

Independent Living

Available:

Semester
Summer

Student residence apartments cater to the independent, do-it-yourself type students who want to experience Galway just as the locals do. Cook tasty Irish meals with your roommates in your kitchen, explore the personality of the neighborhood that surrounds you and make your new residence apartment a home. Semester students are placed in student residence apartments located in the town center, while students on summer programs are placed in student residence apartments located near the University of Galway campus. Please note this housing option is not available to students in the Irish Language & Culture program.

Typical Commute

CEA CAPA Office in Galway: 5-15 minutes walking
University of Galway: 5-15 minutes walking

Meals Included

N/A

Roommates

1-2 students per room
2-5 students per apartment

Unit Amenities

Shared full kitchen
Shared-co-ed bathroom
Bed linens included for summer students
Internet access
Telephone access available
Washer only, pay-per-wash
Central Heating

Additional Fees

This housing option may carry a supplemental fee which may vary based on housing inclusions (i.e. meals, amenities, etc.) as well as program length. Exact amount will be confirmed on the housing application form.

Semester (private room): $1,200 - $1,900

Shared room: No additional fee

Download Overview

Available:

Summer
Mandatory for students in Irish Language & Culture Program

Homestay is only available to students in the Irish Language & Culture (ILC) program. Students live in a homestay with an Irish family in the small town of An Cheathru Rua, outside the city of Galway, providing students the opportunity to dive headfirst into the daily life of Irish locals. This option is for the culture-seeking type whose study abroad goals include improving Irish language skills and cultural understanding.