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Art - Portfolio Preparation - Art & Design

Lifelong Learning
DL161

This 10 ECTS, Level 6 Micro-credential provides learners with the specialised tools and practical skills required to build a standout portfolio in Art + Design.

Award Name Special Purpose Certificate (Level 6 NFQ)
NFQ Classification Special Purpose
Awarding Body Institute of Art Design and Technology
NFQ Level Level 6 NFQ
Award Name NFQ Classification Awarding Body NFQ Level
Special Purpose Certificate (Level 6 NFQ) Special Purpose Institute of Art Design and Technology Level 6 NFQ
Location:
Dun Laoghaire
Attendance Options:
Part time, Daytime
Apply to:
Course provider
Number of credits:
Level 6 ECTS 10

Duration

Courses take place Monday-Friday 10am-4pm

15.06.2026-26.06.2026 (2 weeks)
22.06.2026-03.07.2026 (2 weeks)
29.06.2026-10.07.2026 (2 weeks)
06.07.2026-17.07.2026 (2 weeks)
13.07.2026-24.07.2026 (2 weeks)

Entry Requirements

Min Entry Requirements

Applicants must possess a Leaving Certificate NFQ Level 5 award (or equivalent).

Applicants may also be considered provided they can demonstrate leaving certificate equivalence, which can be verified through the RPL (recognition of prior learning) process.

Portfolio
No

English Language Requirements
If English is not your first language or you are from a country where the official language is not English, you must provide evidence of one of the following qualifications before an offer can be made.

EU candidates who have completed their secondary studies and achieved the minimum English score outlined at https://www.cao.ie/index.php?page=scoring&bb=studentresources

English language test results must normally have been issued within two years prior to the start of a programme. IADT’s English Language Policy Statement can be viewed at
https://iadt.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/English-Language-Policy-Statement-V1.0-2025.pdf#:~:text=This%20policy%20statement%20outlines%20the%20Institute%E2%80%99s%20approach%20to,to%20successfully%20engage%20with%20and%20complete%20their%20programme.

IELTS 6.0 (with no band lower than 5.5)
TOEFL IBT 79
Duolingo 110
Cambridge B2
Other tests as per CAO EU EFTA UK document

Careers / Further progression

Progression Pathways:
DL827 BA [Hons] Art
DL845 BA [Hons] Design for Film
DL826 BA [Hons] Graphic Design
DL833 BA [Hons] Photography + Visual Media

Completion of this micro-credential does not automatically qualify learners for entry to IADT degree programmes. Applicants must apply through the CAO and meet the relevant portfolio and entry requirements. This course is designed to help applicants prepare a strong portfolio for their application.

Course Web Page

Further information

40

Fees €500

How can I apply?
After reviewing the programme details on this webpage, apply using the application form at the top of the page. You will be asked to submit evidence (transcript document) of your level 5 qualification. For those applying via recognition of prior learning (RPL), please attach a copy of your curriculum vitae (CV) when prompted.

Once your application is submitted, it will be reviewed by the team, and you will be contacted as soon as possible.

Supported with peers and on a one-to-one basis, learners are given the time and support to carve out their abilities and build on existing experience. As a practiced artist or a beginner, this programme provides a space to explore and deepen creative practices.

Learners will receive a Level 6 Certificate upon completion of the programme and assessment. This programme suits those who are entering or returning to education or those with a personal interest who would like to build a portfolio of work. A home study programme will be an integral part of the programme.

Who can apply?
This programme is open to:

Anyone with a Leaving Certificate of NFQ Level 5 equivalent

Those without academic qualifications but with relevant industry experience in this area

Whether they are preparing to return to education, broadening creative skills, or building a professional portfolio, this programme gives learners the opportunity to benefit from focused and expert guidance and support.

What will I learn?
How to construct projects from concept to completion
How to use research notebooks
Process images and develop their ideas through 2D, 3D and colour
Learn how to create a relevant, personal and individual comprehensive Portfolio
Build confidence in creative practice through personal tutorials

Areas of study:
Object Based Research
Drawing Process
Tone
Composition
Form
Painting
Colour
Life Drawing
3D Work
Sculpture

Phone +353 1 239 4000
Email info@iadt.ieCopied to clipboard

Location:
Dun Laoghaire
Attendance Options:
Part time, Daytime
Apply to:
Course provider
Number of credits:
Level 6 ECTS 10