QQI LEVEL 5
Practical Design Skills
Course Details
BTEI
QQI Level 5
Part-time (10 - 15.30, Wed)
Places: 10
Start Date: 23/09/2026
Finish Date: December
*FREE – Applicants must meet the BTEI criteria in order to qualify for free fees. We have a limited number of places for paying students (€50). Details on our FAQ page.
Summary
Starting 23 September 2026: Learn how to turn creative ideas into professional design projects. This part-time course is ideal for anyone looking to build an independent graphic design practice—whether freelancing, or adding design skills to their professional toolkit. Over 12 weeks, you’ll gain practical experience with typography, layout, branding, colour theory, and industry-standard software. By the end, you’ll have the skills, confidence, and a polished portfolio to launch or strengthen your design career.
Every Wednesday for 12 weeks, starting 23 September, the course is free for BTEI eligible applicants (see criteria in “Entry Requirements” below) and just 50 euro for non-BTEI students.
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Title: Art
Code: 5M1985; Graphic Design Skills 5N1978
Level: 5
Type: Minor
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The Graphic Design course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive introduction to the world of graphic design. This dynamic and engaging programme is aimed at individuals who are interested in developing their creative skills, exploring visual communication, and gaining proficiency in industry-standard design tools.
Throughout the course, students will be exposed to fundamental concepts, principles, and practices that form the foundation of effective graphic design. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical hands-on exercises, enabling participants to create visually compelling designs that effectively convey messages and ideas.
The Graphic Design course under the Back to Education Initiative empowers participants with practical skills and knowledge to embark on a journey in the exciting world of graphic design. Whether pursuing further studies or seeking employment opportunities in design-related fields, this course equips students with a solid foundation for success.
The course will support students in making successful applications to full-time QQI level 5 and 6 courses like our Portfolio Preparation Level 5 and Advanced Portfolio Preparation Level 6 full-time programmes.
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Experiment with diverse design techniques
Develop your unique artistic style through personalised guidance and exploration, unlocking your creative vision.
Learn the essential skills to present your work professionally
Gain valuable feedback and support from experienced artists and educators through expert mentorship.
Discover new mediums and approaches, fostering a deeper understanding of your creative potential, exploring your artistic passion.
Build the confidence and skills needed to begin and sustain your art practice in further art education or independently
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5N1978 Graphic Design Skills
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Places are based on a first come, first basis. There is no portfolio or interview required to gain entry onto this course. We prioritize BTEI eligible students who have a medical card or in receipt of a social welfare payment, listed below:
Medical Card
Supplementary Welfare Allowance
Job Seekers Benefit (Unemployment Benefit)
Job Seekers Allowance (Unemployment Assistance)
Family Income Supplement
Farm Assist
Carer's Allowance
One-Parent Family Payment
Back-to-Work Allowance
Community Employment
Part-time Job Incentive Scheme
Widow's and Widower's Non-Contributory Pension
Blind Person's Pension
Pre-retirement Allowance
State Pension (Non-Contributory) (Old Age Non-Contributory Pension)
Guardian's Payment Non-Contributory (Orphans Non-Contributory pension)
Illness Benefit, where this has been held for a continuous period of at least 6 months (Disability Benefit)
Disability Allowance
Invalidity Pension