Access Foundation Course
If you have been thinking about going to college, this programme will give you a taste of college life. You will gain new skills, create a portfolio of work, and achieve a qualification you can use to apply to degree courses in IADT.
| 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 |
Duration
9 months, with approximately 2 days per week of classes.
The course will follow the college timetable of classes from September to December, and from January to April.
There will also be an option to choose an evening/weekend art portfolio preparation class.
Time commitment
This is a part-time course. You will have on average 3-6 hours of classes over two days per week from September – June.
Timetables will vary depending on class choice.
Entry Requirements
Who is this programme for?
For young adults who have experienced socio-economic or educational disadvantage.
You don’t need a Leaving Certificate or another qualification to apply.
Find out if you meet the eligibility criteria at https://iadt.ie/courses/access-foundation-programme/
You will need to provide documentation as evidence of what you state in your application.
You must also meet these criteria:
Young adults (22 years or younger on the 1 January 2026)
Be resident in Ireland
What next?
If you are eligible, you will be invited for an informal meeting with IADT staff on campus. After the meeting, you will be informed if you are being offered a place.
Further information
10
Funding and Fees
Funding will cover tuition fees and provide additional support, including:
A maintenance payment of €600 per semester
Help with the costs of course materials
Students may also receive department of social welfare payments such as the Back to Education Allowance.
Benefits of the Access Foundation Programme:
Your first step into college
Choose a route based on your interests
Inclusive and supportive environment
Flexible, part-time study
Free fees
What will you learn?
You will take a core class called Skills for Higher Education. This will prepare you for higher education, with an introduction to academic writing, research and study skills.
Art & Design – choose one portfolio preparation class:
Drawing skills
Animation
Art & design
Film, Television & Photography
General – choose two classes:
Introduction to Visual & Material Culture
Visual & Material Culture: Histories & Theories
Music Industries
Music Business: Rap & Hip-Hop
Digital Media Prototyping + Web Design
Film and Animation History
Film and Animation History II
Society, Culture and the Image
Screen Writing
Irish Cinema
For any queries, please contact: access@iadt.ie.