Skip to main content

Art - Portfolio Preparation - Drawing Skills

Lifelong Learning
DL159

This part-time, 10 ECTS Level 6 Micro-credential equips learners with the knowledge, experience, and confidence to hone their drawing skills and create a strong and unique portfolio.

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

29.06.2026-03.07.2026 (1 week)
20.07.2026-24.07.2026 (1 week)

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
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
DL826 BA [Hons] Graphic Design

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

16

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.

Learners can benefit from teaching which is tailored towards their skill level on an individual basis, resulting in the ability to build a portfolio which reflects their strengths and abilities.

This programme will suit anyone who has an interest in improving the craft of drawing. Graduates from this programme can apply to a Level 8 undergraduate degree, using the tools gained to create a competitive portfolio. Learners will receive a Level 6 Certificate upon completion and assessment of their work for this programme, alongside a robust set of skills to create a leading portfolio of work.

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?

Learners will get to:
Develop a toolkit for the creation of a standout portfolio
Hone an existing passion, skillset, and creative interest in drawing skills
Learn to present work under the guidance of one-on-one feedback and guidance
Build confidence in themselves, pushing their own boundaries to explore new opportunities

Areas of Study:

Working from a selection of still life set-ups and personal objects, learners will:
Learn the fundamental stages of drawing from observation
Become familiar with drawing techniques using a variety of approaches and media

Classes will consist of:
Observational drawing of organic and manmade objects
Studying proportion and form
Lighting and composition
Rendering techniques with a variety of media

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