Two postgraduate courses allow students to specialise - NUI Galway's ard diploma i gcumsarsaid fheidhmeach and DCU's MSc in science communication which is offered in conjuction with QUB.

The ard diploma offers excellent prospects for students who want to learn journalism skills as Gaeilge. Riarthoir Ronan O Dubhthaigh says the employment rate is close to 100 per cent. "We're in a niche market."

Graduates have found work in publications such as Foinse and Cuisle as well in Teilifis na Gaeilge and Radio na Gaeltachta. They are also employed in the technical aspects of radio and television - editing, producing, camera work, sound and post-production. Students do three types of work experience - placement, practice and shadowing. The course is run in conjunction with a production company in Carraroe, Co Galway, so students use full broadcast-quality equipment.

Applicants for the ard diploma should have a primary degree, in any discipline, and fluent Irish. Admission is based on an application form, a portfolio, and, possibly, an interview. There are 15 places each year. Applicants should contact the college directly and leave their name, telephone number and address. Application forms will be sent out next year.

DCU and QUB offer an MSc in science communication. Students spend the first semester in Queen's and the second in DCU. Students are drawn principally from two streams - science and engineering and from communications and journalism. The primary aim is to train students to become science communicators in the news media, in industry, government and public affairs.