The 1978–79 National Hurling League was the 48th season of the National Hurling League.
Carlow entered Division 1 as the promoted team.
On 6 May 1979, Tipperary won the title after a 3–15 to 0–8 win over Galway in the final.
[1] Carlow were relegated from Division 1 after just one season in the top flight.
Quarter-finals Semi-finals Final Kerry won the title after a 3–7 to 3–4 win over Meath in the final round of the group stage.