3-year diplomas

Athlone IT: design communications

Dun Laoghaire IATD: design communication

Letterkenny IT: design, graphics

Limerick IT: art and design

WIT: design (communication)

Ab initio degrees

DIT: design visual communication

NCAD: visual communication

Portfolio preparation courses have become an important element at PLC level. Many third-level courses require applicants to submit portfolios and this can be difficult for some second-level students who have lacked the opportunity to do so at school. Check with PLC colleges for details of portfolio preparation or art and design courses.