Program Overview

Master of Arts in Graphic Design Practice

Overview

The Master of Arts in Graphic Design Practice is a one-year, full-time postgraduate program designed to equip graduates with the necessary skills and competencies to work effectively as design professionals. The program combines contemporary education practices, meaningful industry links, and excellent facilities to deliver a unique course that combines research, practical studio work, and the development of relevant technology and entrepreneurial skills.

Course Details

• TU Code: TU381
• NFQ Level: Level 9
• Award Type: Major
• Award: Master of Arts
• ECTS Credits: 90
• Duration: 1 Year
• Course Type: Postgraduate
• Mode of Study: Full Time
• Method of Delivery: On-Campus
• Commencement Date: September 2025
• Location: Bolton Street
• Fees: €7,400 Total Fee (EU), €13,500 Total Fee (Non-EU)

What is Graphic Design Practice?

A master's degree program covering the area of professional graphic design practice. The aim of this course is to equip graduates with the necessary skills and competencies needed to work effectively as design professionals.

Minimum Entry Requirements

• Bachelor Degree (Honours 2.1 or above) in relevant disciplines.
• If English is not your first language, you will need to provide evidence of your English language proficiency as detailed on our website. Applicants for this course should have a minimum IELTS (Academic Version) English Proficiency of 6 overall (or equivalent) with nothing less than 6 in each component.

Course Content

Creative Practice

This core aspect of the program is project-driven with practical objectives that aim to develop an understanding of how creative design practice integrates with commercial production and business strategy.

Design Management

This area of study incorporates strategic marketing, project management, key skills intrapreneurial and entrepreneurial skills. Participants apply these skills in their professional design practice.

Prepress and Printing Technology

This area of study focuses on the commercial aspects of prepress technology, commercial printing technology, and print finishing technology.

Design Research

Participants identify research areas which are relevant to the professional practice of graphic design. The research projects are an important element of the course as they will contribute to the future development of the design industry in Ireland.

Module Listing

Year One

Semester 1

• Commercial Print Production [Mandatory]
• Design Management [Mandatory]
• Design Professional Practice 01 [Mandatory]
• Design Professional Practice 02 [Mandatory]
• Prepress Production [Mandatory]
• Research [Mandatory]

Semester 2

• Design Management [Mandatory]
• Design Professional Practice 01 [Mandatory]
• Commercial Print Production [Mandatory]
• Prepress Production [Mandatory]

Schedule

Students are required to attend the college for 3 days per week. The course is offered over a 1-year period starting in mid-September of each year.