Course Summary
An investigation of the creative potential of documents and other archival records for artists.
In this series of classes, you will have opportunities to explore practical, conceptual and ethical issues raised by endeavour of making art in the archive. You will debate the merits of different artistic and curatorial practices and you will meet archivists who are charged with making materials in their care accessible.
College Link
Career Sectors
This course prepares you for working in the Career Sectors below. Follow the links to get a fuller understanding of the sectors you are preparing for.
Entry Requirements
All applicants are expected to present an approved Bachelor degree at minimum level of 2nd class honours (2.2).
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) - Applicants who do not meet the minimum academic entry requirements for admission may be considered on the basis of a recognition of previous learning whether based on prior relevant experience or other relevant credited or non credited or learning (RPL). In such cases each applicant will be considered on a case-by-case basis based on a review of the applicant’s CV and other supporting documentation.
Please contact [email protected] for further information.
Application Details
NCAD
It is advised to apply as early as possible to avoid disappointment and to allow time to gather all required documents and information for the recruitment process. Spaces on each course are limited and can fill up quickly.
Application Date:
05/01/2026
The Student
Career Interests
This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.
Creative
Creative people are drawn to careers and activities that enable them to take responsibility for the design, layout or sensory impact of something (visual, auditory etc). They may be atrracted to the traditional artistic pursuits such as painting, sculpture, singing, or music. Or they may show more interest in design activities, such as architecture, animation, or craft areas, such as pottery and ceramics.
Creative people use their personal understanding of people and the world they live in to guide their work. Creative people like to work in unstructured workplaces, enjoy taking risks and prefer a minimum of routine.
Career Progression
High level research skills and critical understanding of research practices are vital skills for many artists and designers working today, as well as curators, arts writers and critics.
The professional certificate is also be an excellent foundation for a future research degree (MPhil, MLitt, MRes, PhD).

