DL149 - Certificate Critical Design
Philosophies
This course is currently offered in collaboration with Creative Futures Academy (CFA). CFA is a ground-breaking partnership between: The National College of Art and Design, University College Dublin, and the Institute of Art, Design + Technology. Our tailored programmes and micro courses offer access to expertise and networks across the three leading creative institutions and our industry partners. Learn with us as we experiment, innovate and respond to change.
Note: This course is no longer accepting applications for 2024/25. To register your interest in the next intake, please email cfa@iadt.ie
What is Critical Design Philosophies?
Our postgraduate certificate explores recent design history from a critical perspective and proposes new theoretical frameworks for design that are matriarchal, eco-centered, and non-anthropocentric.
The course begins by examining the philosophical foundations of design, particularly those of the Enlightenment period, and their impact on contemporary design practice, and contribution to the multiple crisis in the Anthropocene.
We will then introduce alternative design philosophies and frameworks that centre on ecological sustainability, social justice, and more-than-human perspectives.
These approaches challenge the modernist and anthropocentric assumptions that underpin traditional design practices and offer new ways of thinking about design that prioritize care, interdependence, and collective sustainment.
This course is offered within the MA in Design for Change which was developed with George Brown College in Toronto. The MA programme is now affiliated with the Brookfield Sustainability Institute which works with industry and government partners and engage, the programme also works with projects through IADT’s Public Design Lab.
What will I do on the course?
Drawing on a range of interdisciplinary theories and approaches, you will critically analyse the role of design in perpetuating global crises such as environmental destruction, social inequality, and political instability.
Through a series of lectures, seminars, and independent research, you will develop a nuanced understanding of the complex relationships between design, power, and social change.
Throughout the course, you will be encouraged to apply these theoretical frameworks to your own design practice through a series of practical exercises and case studies.
By the end of the course, you will have a deeper understanding of the historical, social, and philosophical contexts of design and will be equipped with the tools to develop and apply more ethical, sustainable, and socially just design practices.
The course aims to:
• Critically analyse the philosophical foundations of design and their impact on contemporary practice.
• Examine the role of design in perpetuating global crises such as environmental destruction, social inequality, and political instability.
• Introduce alternative design philosophies and frameworks that centre on ecological sustainability, social justice, and more-human perspectives.
• Provide you with the tools to develop and apply ethical, sustainable, and socially just design practices in your own work.
How will I be assessed?
You will be assessed through class engagement and two assignments. There are no written examinations.
Dates + Times
The course runs on Thursdays (5pm – 7.30pm), from 26th September 2024 to 16th January 2025 (final dated to be confirmed).
Classes are delivered in studio and online.
How do I apply?
Please complete the online application form at the top of the page.
As part of the application, you will be required to provide a CV with details of:
- Education / Qualifications,
- Professional experience, and
- Creative work (e.g., a link to a portfolio website).
Fees + Scholarships
Fees for this course in 2024/2025 are €550, subsidised by the Higher Education Authority’s Human Capital Initiative. Check your eligibility HERE
Once offered a place on the course, you will be asked to complete a declaration form to confirm your eligibility.
Fees for those who do not meet the eligibility criteria above are €1,100.
CFA + Kilkenny Arts Office Bursaries:
Kilkenny Arts Office has joined forces with CFA to offer bursaries this Autumn to Kilkenny based artists seeking to gain new qualifications and skills to expand their practice. The bursaries range from €500 to a maximum of €2,000. Find out more HERE
CFA Scholarship:
A CFA scholarship encourages the participation of learners from sections of society that are significantly under-represented in higher education by offering one free place on all of our CFA short courses.
Find out if you are eligible to apply HERE
Fill in the CFA@IADT scholarship application form HERE