Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Creative Design, EDUCO Ireland - Institute of Technology Sligo

Galway, Connaught

48 Months

Check Eligibility

About this course

The Creative Design programme at ATU Sligo is designed to equip students with the skills and experience needed to become industry-ready designers. The course covers a broad spectrum of design areas, from cars and apps to medical devices, graphics, electronic products, startups, and more. It emphasizes creative problem-solving and innovative design solutions that influence economic growth, social development, and societal prosperity. Throughout the four-year, full-time, on-campus degree, students engage in real-world projects with companies and outside bodies, developing analytical, technical, research, social, and applied design skills. Studio time dominates the curriculum, fostering confidence and trusting creative intuition. Students learn drawing, sketching, CAD, digital media, and model-making, progressing through modules that focus on a variety of design techniques and contexts. Key features include work placements—to be undertaken in Year 3—and opportunities for international exchange, culminating in a final project showcased at the Yeats Academy of Arts, Design and Architecture Showcase.

Why this course is highly recommended

This degree is ideal for students who are creative problem-solvers fascinated by designing the objects and services that shape daily life. With a focus on real-world projects and work placements—including an international exchange option—students gain practical experience that forms a strong foundation for their careers. The program promotes confidence in using design tools and techniques, from drawing and CAD to digital media and workshop making, preparing graduates to be versatile and innovative in the evolving design industry. Its broad approach, combined with opportunities to participate in competitions and exhibitions, ensures students are well-positioned to enter diverse design roles, from entrepreneurship to working within established companies.

Specialisation

The course offers a comprehensive foundation across multiple design disciplines, encouraging students to explore their creative interests. It emphasizes a broad approach, allowing students to work in areas like product design, graphic design, electronic products, and medical devices. The curriculum integrates practical skills such as CAD, digital media, research methodologies, and material processes, along with thematic courses that address visual and material culture across different periods — from classical times to modern and contemporary issues. Students are encouraged to develop their unique design voice and transform ideas into societal benefits, with modules focusing on real-world projects, social impact, and design for social change.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

9.48L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants need a Leaving Certificate with 6 subjects at O6/H7 and 2 at H5, including English or Irish at O6/H7. The course also accepts students with a QQI/FET Major Award with three distinctions, or those applying via advanced entry with a Level 6 Major Award or from other higher education institutions. There are no specific maths requirements, making it accessible to students from various academic backgrounds.

English language test

IELTS

5.5

PTE

TOEFL

DUOLINGO

Career prospects

Graduates of this program find opportunities in diverse fields such as product and service design, graphic design, electronic product development, and start-up ventures. They may work as visual designers, human-centered designers, environmental or social impact designers, and UI/UX specialists. The degree offers a competitive edge for those interested in innovation, research, and development sectors. The report by The Expert Group on Future Skills Needs suggests significant growth in digital and design-related occupations by 2025, with many roles requiring the skills students acquire here. Companies increasingly value designers early in business development and have dedicated design teams, providing ample employment avenues.

FAQs

What practical experience will I gain during the course?

Students work on real-world projects for companies and outside bodies, participate in work placements, and produce final projects exhibited at annual showcases.

Can I participate in an international exchange?

Yes, Year 3 offers students the opportunity to engage in an international student exchange programme.