Art and Design Portfolio Preparation

The CDCFE Portfolio Preparation course is designed to prepare students for entry to colleges both in Ireland and abroad. Emphasis is placed on research and development methods in both practical and academic subjects relevant to Art and Design practice. This approach facilitates the development of a balanced portfolio which acknowledges the student’s own individual ideas development.

Course Content

Observational research and exploration of ideas and materials through Drawing, Painting, Illustration, Combined Materials/Design, Sculpture, Appreciation of Art and Design, Digital Photography, Image Processing, Communications, Work Experience, Portfolio Editing and Evaluation.

While preparing their individual portfolio, students on the course cover the QQI Level 5 Art Award (5M1985) which is recognised for entry to Third Level Art Colleges such as NCAD, TUD, IADT, LSAD and ITs (Institutes of Technology) nationwide. The QQI Award affords students the opportunity to achieve Distinction grades that can be used in lieu of minimum Leaving Certificate requirements for third level college entry.

Certification

QQI Level 5 Award

Duration

1 Year

Entry Requirements

Leaving Certificate or LCVP (to include O6 / H7 English) or Merit Award LCA or Merit Award QQI Level 4. Applicants unable to complete the above requirements for legitimate reasons can be interviewed on a one to one basis as to suitability. The portfolio preparation course welcomes mature students whose eligibility is assessed on an individual basis.

Progression Opportunities

Graduates of this course may also apply for entry to higher and advanced certificate and degree programmes at national Institutes of Technology, Technological Universities, Universities and Art Colleges at home and abroad such as, NCAD (National College of Art + Design), TU Dublin, IADT (Institute of Art, Design + Technology), Crawford College of Art + Design, LSAD (Limerick School of Art + Design), TUS (Technological University of the Shannon), and IT Carlow; London, Edinburgh, Utrecht, Berlin.

Students can use this major Level 5 Art Award (5M1985) to apply to colleges through the CAO.

Course Charges

Year 1: €400

This course is free for those over 21 and in receipt of a social welfare payment*. Click here for more information and to check eligibility.

Further Examples of Student Work