Atlantic Technological University
Where the Atlantic Meets Innovation
Overview
Atlantic Technological University (ATU) was established in 2022 through the merger of Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology (GMIT), Institute of Technology Sligo, and Letterkenny Institute of Technology. As one of Ireland's newest technological universities, ATU brings together decades of academic expertise across the west and north-west of Ireland to create a dynamic, multi-campus institution.
With campuses spanning Galway, Sligo, Donegal, and Mayo, ATU is uniquely positioned along Ireland's stunning Atlantic coast. The university is nationally recognised for excellence in marine science, design and creative arts, engineering, nursing, and computing. Its strong regional roots and industry partnerships ensure graduates are equipped with practical skills and real-world experience.
ATU is home to over 15,000 students, including more than 2,000 international learners from across the globe. The university offers a welcoming, supportive environment with smaller class sizes, world-class facilities, and an exceptional quality of life in some of Ireland's most vibrant and affordable communities.
Why Choose Atlantic Technological University
Multi-Campus Network
With campuses across Galway, Sligo, Donegal, and Mayo, ATU offers unparalleled access to Ireland's stunning Atlantic west coast and diverse regional communities.
Marine Science Excellence
Home to one of Ireland's leading marine science programmes, with direct access to Atlantic waters and state-of-the-art marine research facilities.
Design & Creative Arts Hub
Nationally recognised for design, film, animation, and creative arts programmes with industry-standard studios and exhibition spaces.
Strong Industry Partnerships
Close links with regional employers in medtech, engineering, pharma, and IT sectors ensure graduates are career-ready from day one.
Supportive Learning Environment
Smaller class sizes and dedicated student support services create a personalised learning experience that helps every student thrive.
Affordable West Coast Living
Enjoy a high quality of life at a fraction of Dublin's cost, with vibrant cultural scenes in Galway, Sligo, and Letterkenny.
Popular Courses for International Students
Undergraduate Programmes
BSc Computer Science
Software development, cloud computing, cybersecurity, AI fundamentals
BEng Engineering
Mechanical, civil, electronic, and manufacturing engineering pathways
BSc Nursing
General, psychiatric, and intellectual disability nursing with clinical placements
BA Design & Creative Arts
Graphic design, animation, film, fine art, and digital media
BBS Business
Management, marketing, accounting, enterprise development
BSc Marine Science
Ocean science, marine biology, coastal management, environmental studies
BSc Sport & Health
Sports science, health promotion, physical education, coaching
BA Furniture Design
Wood technology, furniture making, sustainable design, craftsmanship
Postgraduate Programmes
MSc Computing
Software design, applied computing, data analytics, cloud technologies
MSc Data Analytics
Big data, machine learning, statistical modelling, business intelligence
MBA
Strategic management, leadership, innovation, global business
MSc Applied Bioscience
Biotechnology, pharmaceutical science, molecular biology, lab techniques
MSc Creative Practice
Contemporary art, design research, creative innovation, exhibition practice
MSc Quality Management
Lean Six Sigma, regulatory compliance, quality assurance, process improvement
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate
- Academic: Completion of 12 years of education with satisfactory grades equivalent to Irish Leaving Certificate
- IELTS: 6.0 overall (no band below 5.5)
- TOEFL: 80 (internet-based)
- PTE Academic: 56
- Application: Via CAO or ATU International Office direct application
- Documents: Transcripts, personal statement, passport, English test results, reference letter
Postgraduate
- Academic: Bachelor's degree with Second Class Honours (2:2) or equivalent GPA
- IELTS: 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0)
- TOEFL: 88 (internet-based)
- PTE Academic: 61
- Application: Direct via ATU's online portal
- Documents: Transcripts, CV, personal statement, 2 academic references, portfolio (some programmes)
Application Deadlines
- September Intake (Main): February 1 (CAO) / July 15 (ATU Direct, recommended: May for visa processing)
- January Intake: Limited programmes available. Check specific course pages
- Rolling Admissions: Some postgraduate programmes accept applications year-round
Scholarships for International Students
ATU International Scholarship
Up to €3,000
High-achieving international students from non-EU countries applying to full-time programmes
ATU President's Award
€2,000
Students demonstrating exceptional academic excellence and community involvement
Government of Ireland Scholarship
€10,000 + full fees
High-achieving non-EU students (national competition via HEA)
Science Foundation Ireland Awards
Varies
STEM postgraduate students engaged in funded research areas
Sports Scholarships
Up to €2,500
Elite athletes representing ATU in varsity and national competitions
ATU Access Scholarship
Up to €2,000
International students from underrepresented backgrounds demonstrating financial need
Campus & Student Life
Campus Facilities
- Multiple campuses across Galway, Sligo, Donegal, and Mayo
- State-of-the-art engineering and science laboratories
- Marine research station and coastal field facilities
- Design studios, animation suites, and creative workshops
- Modern libraries with extensive digital resources
- Sports facilities including gyms, pitches, and indoor halls
- Dedicated nursing simulation labs and clinical suites
- Student accommodation on and near campuses
- Cafeterias, common rooms, and social spaces
- Innovation hubs and enterprise incubation centres
Student Life
- 100+ clubs and societies across all campuses
- International students' society and cultural events
- Galway: European Capital of Culture, arts festivals, and vibrant nightlife
- Sports clubs: GAA, soccer, rugby, surfing, kayaking, climbing
- Outdoor adventures: hiking, surfing, sailing along the Wild Atlantic Way
- Student Union with events, welfare support, and advocacy
- Part-time work: 20 hours/week during term, 40 hours during holidays
- Annual events, RAG week, and campus festivals
- Career services and graduate employer networking events
Location & Contact
Address
Dublin Road, Galway, H91 T8NW, Ireland
Getting There
- From Dublin Airport: 3 hours by bus (Citylink/GoBus) or train via Heuston Station
- From Galway City Centre: 10 minutes by bus or short taxi ride
- Bus: Regular Bus Eireann and Citylink services to Galway
- Train: Irish Rail services from Dublin Heuston to Galway (2.5 hrs)
Contact Information
- Phone: +353 91 753161
- Email: info@atu.ie
- Website: www.atu.ie
- International Office: www.atu.ie/international
Office Hours
Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (GMT/IST)
Ready to Study at Atlantic Technological University?
Join 2,000+ international students at Ireland's newest Atlantic coast university. Our team will guide you through every step, from application to arrival in Galway.
