Graphic design is a creative and dynamic field that involves using various media and techniques to communicate ideas and messages visually. If you are interested in pursuing a career in graphic design, you might want to consider studying in Dublin, Ireland. This blog will explore the reasons why you should choose graphic design courses in Dublin, the top universities offering them, and the part-time and online options. We will also discuss the entry requirements, the application process, the documents required, and the salary prospects.
Course | Graphic Design |
Location | Dublin, Ireland |
Top Universities Offering Graphic Design Courses | National College of Art and Design (NCAD), University College Dublin (UCD), and Dublin Institute of Design |
Average Annual Tuition Fee | EUR 9,000 – EUR 15,000 |
Average Annual Salary After Completing the Studies | EUR 28,000 to EUR 70,000 |
This Blog Includes:
- Why Choose Graphic Design Courses in Dublin?
- Top Universities Offering Graphic Design Courses in Dublin
- Part-time Graphic Design Courses in Dublin
- Online Graphic Design Courses in Dublin
- Graphic Design Courses in Dublin: Entry Requirements
- Application Process
- Popular Scholarships
- Graphic Design Courses in Dublin: Salary
- FAQs
Why Choose Graphic Design Courses in Dublin?
Ireland is known for its high-quality education system and its reputation for excellence in arts and design. The National College of Art and Design (NCAD) is one of the leading institutions in Europe for art and design education, offering numerous graphic design degrees at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
Dublin is home to many local and international companies and organisations that are looking for talented and creative graphic designers. You will also have access to the NCAD DesignLabs, which are collaborative platforms that connect students, researchers, and industry partners to work on real-world projects and challenges.
Compared to the UK, the US, or Australia, Ireland offers more affordable tuition fees and living costs for international students. The average tuition fee for graphic design courses in Dublin ranges from EUR 9,000 – EUR 15,000 per year. This depends on the level and duration of the course as well. The average living cost in Dublin is around EUR 12,000 per year, which includes accommodation, food, transport, and other expenses.
Also Read: Chemical Engineering in Ireland: Top Universities, Courses and Average Tuition Fees
Top Universities Offering Graphic Design Courses in Dublin
Graphic design courses in Dublin can be classified into 3 main categories: undergraduate, postgraduate, and professional. Undergraduate courses are usually 4-year programmes that lead to a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of Design (BDes) degree in graphic design or visual communication. Postgraduate courses are usually 1 or 2-year programmes that lead to a Master of Arts (MA), a Master of Design (MDes), or a Master of Science (MSc) degree in graphic design or related fields.
University | Course | Level | Duration | Tuition Fee (Average) |
National College of Art and Design (NCAD) | BA in Graphic Design | Undergraduate | 4 years | EUR 9,000 per year |
National College of Art and Design (NCAD) | MA in Graphic Design | Postgraduate | 1 year | EUR 15,000 per year |
National College of Art and Design (NCAD) | MSc in Medical Device Design | Postgraduate | 1 year | EUR 15,000 per year |
University College Dublin (UCD) | Professional Diploma in Graphic Design | Professional | 6 months | EUR 3,500 |
Dublin Institute of Design | Associate Certificate in Graphic Design | Professional | 10 weeks | EUR 1,250 |
Dublin Institute of Design | Higher National Diploma in Graphic Design | Undergraduate | 2 years | EUR 5,950 per year |
Griffith College Dublin | BA (Hons) in Design Communications | Undergraduate | 3 years | EUR 12,500 per year |
Griffith College Dublin | MA in Design Communications | Postgraduate | 1 year | EUR 13,500 per year |
Dublin Business School | Diploma in Graphic Design | Professional | 1 year | EUR 2,500 |
Dublin Business School | BA (Hons) in Graphic Design | Undergraduate | 3 years | EUR 9,950 per year |
Part-time Graphic Design Courses in Dublin
If you are looking for more flexibility and convenience in your graphic design studies, you might want to consider part-time graphic design courses in Dublin. These courses are usually offered in the evenings or on weekends. They allow you to balance your studies with your work or personal commitments. Here is a table listing some of the part-time graphic design courses in Ireland.
Course | Provider | Duration | Tuition Fee (Average) |
Graphic Design for Beginners | Pitman Training | 8 weeks | EUR 1,195 |
Graphic Design Diploma | Pitman Training | 12 weeks | EUR 1,995 |
Graphic Design Fundamentals | Dorset College | 10 weeks | EUR 395 |
Graphic Design Portfolio Preparation | BFEI | 1 year | EUR 530 |
Graphic Design Skills | City Colleges | 10 weeks | EUR 845 |
Graphic Design with Adobe Creative Cloud | IACT | 10 weeks | EUR 1,495 |
Online Graphic Design Courses in Dublin
Another option for studying graphic design in Dublin is to enrol in online graphic design courses. These courses are delivered through online platforms, such as websites, apps, or video conferencing tools, and they allow you to learn at your own pace and place.
Course | Provider | Duration | Tuition Fee (Average) |
Graphic Design Course | Shaw Academy | 4 weeks | Free |
Graphic Design Masterclass | Udemy | 25 hours | EUR 12.99 |
Graphic Design Specialization | Coursera | 5 months | Free |
Graphic Design Bootcamp | Skillshare | 8 hours | Free |
Graphic Design Professional Diploma | Centre of Excellence | 150 hours | EUR 127 |
Graphic Design Diploma | International Career Institute | 24 weeks | EUR 798 |
Also Read: How To Study in Ireland for Free? What are the Scholarships or Grants Available?
Graphic Design Courses in Dublin: Entry Requirements
The entry requirements for graphic design courses in Dublin depend on the level and type of the course you are applying for. Generally, you will need to meet the following criteria:
- A Leaving Certificate (for undergraduates) with good grades in relevant subjects, such as art, design, English, and math.
- A portfolio of creative work.
- Mature students (over 23 years old) may be able to apply without meeting the standard entry requirements.
- A bachelor’s degree (for graduates) in a relevant field, such as graphic design, fine art, or communication studies.
- Interview
Application Process
The application process for graphic design courses in Dublin will vary slightly depending on the institution, but here’s a general overview:
- Research the various graphic design courses in Dublin and find the one that suits your interests, goals, and budget.
- Make sure you meet the academic qualifications and portfolio requirements.
- Prepare the required documents and materials for your application.
- Check the application deadlines and fees for your chosen course and institution, and make sure you have enough time and money to complete your application.
- Fill out an application form, upload or attach your documents and materials, and pay the application fee.
- After you have submitted your application, you will need to wait for the admission decision from the institution.
- You will receive an email or a letter informing you whether you have been accepted, rejected, or waitlisted.
- If you have been accepted, you will also receive an offer letter, which will outline the conditions and requirements for your enrolment, such as paying a deposit, securing a visa, and registering for classes.
Documents Required
- Academic transcripts
- English language test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE)
- Portfolio
- CV
- Personal statement
Popular Scholarships
You can use the following scholarships to receive financial support for graphic design courses Dublin.
Scholarship | Grant |
Ussher Fellowship | EUR 13,000 |
Masters Academic Merit Scholarships | EUR 2,000 – EUR 4,000 |
Study Abroad Excellence Scholarship | EUR 1,000 |
Global Excellence Postgraduate Scholarships | EUR 2,000 – EUR 5,000 |
Academic Year Study Abroad Excellence Scholarship | EUR 3,000 |
Graphic Design Courses in Dublin: Salary
Studying graphic design in Dublin can lead to a rewarding and fulfilling career in the creative industry. Graphic designers can work in various sectors and roles, such as advertising, publishing, web design, animation, gaming, branding, and more. However, here is a brief overview of the career scope and a table listing some of the popular job profiles and salaries for graphic design graduates from Ireland:
Job Profile | Salary (Estimated) |
Graphic Designer | EUR 28,000 – EUR 40,000 per year |
Web Designer | EUR 30,000 – EUR 45,000 per year |
Animator | EUR 25,000 – EUR 50,000 per year |
Game Designer | EUR 35,000 – EUR 60,000 per year |
Brand Designer | EUR 40,000 – EUR 70,000 per year |
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FAQs
Ans: A graphic design course in Dublin can help you develop your creative skills, learn from experienced instructors, and access a large community of designers and artists. You can also explore the rich culture and history of Dublin, which can inspire your work and broaden your perspective.
Ans: Dublin Institute of Design, Griffith College, and The Ballyfermot College of Further Education are some of the popular choices for studying graphic design in Dublin part-time or online.
Ans: Generally, the fees for graphic design courses in Dublin range from EUR 2,000 – EUR 10,000 per year for EU students, and from EUR 9,000 – EUR 15,000 per year for non-EU students.
We hope that this blog gave you a complete overview of the graphic design courses in Ireland. For content on courses to study abroad, start following Leverage Edu today. Thank you for reading!