Study the Creative Media and Interaction Design International Foundation Programme at our Maynooth centre and build the academic and English skills needed for entry to undergraduate study in Ireland.
On successful completion, you receive a QQI Level 5 Specific Purpose Certificate in International Foundation Studies and progress to partner undergraduate pathways.
Duration: 7 months (two semesters of 12–13 teaching weeks plus an examination week)
Study time: On average, 25 hours per week of classroom-based learning
Delivery location: Maynooth (OnCampus Ireland centre)
Award on completion: QQI Level 5 Specific Purpose Certificate in International Foundation Studies (NFQ Level 5)
EQF alignment: Level 4 (as a Specific Purpose Certificate)
English language support: English is compulsory and forms at least 9 hours of your timetable; integrated into academic teaching and available as additional support
Progression: Designed to enable progression to undergraduate programmes in Ireland via partner pathways (progression subject to programme requirements)
Application and start dates: Check the programme website for the latest intake dates and application deadlines
Programme structure (7 months):
- Semester 1 (12–13 teaching weeks + exam week)
- Semester 2 (12–13 teaching weeks + exam week)
Core modules typically include:
- English (including integrated language development and additional support where required)
- Intercultural Studies and Communications
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Computer Science
Assessment and progression:
- You will complete assessments across the academic modules and English.
- Successful completion of the programme award supports progression to partner undergraduate pathways (subject to meeting any progression criteria).
Curriculum note:
The programme is designed as a broad foundation, combining language, communication, and STEM subjects to prepare you for undergraduate study.
Academic requirements
Specific GRE/GMAT/GPA requirements are not applicable for this programme.
English requirements
IELTS
The International English Language Test System (IELTS) tests your English-language proficiency on a scale of 1 – 9. The score refers to the combined average score of 4 subjects (writing, listening, speaking, and reading).
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Other requirements
General requirements
English requirements:
- Applicants should meet an English level of Council of Europe B1+ / IGCSE C or equivalent. IELTS 5.0 overall is required, with no less than 5.0 in writing and 4.5 in listening, speaking, and reading.
Age requirements:
- Applicants must normally be 17 years old and will be 18 by the end of the programme.
Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner
Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items like Additional medical costs, Repatriation, Liability etc. Make sure your student insurance covers your needs.
Studyportals partnered with Aon to provide you with the best affordable student insurance, for a carefree experience away from home.
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Starting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.
Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at University of Limerick and/or in Ireland, please visit Student Insurance Portal.
Make sure you meet all requirements
Visit programme website
After completing your programme in Ireland, you may be eligible to apply for a post-study work permission (subject to meeting the Irish immigration rules in force at the time of application).
- Eligibility: Typically, you must have completed an eligible programme of study in Ireland and hold the appropriate immigration permission to remain in the country to apply for the post-study option.
- Duration: The length of the permission depends on the programme level and the rules applicable at the time you apply.
- Timing: You should apply within the permitted timeframe after graduation and before your current permission expires.
- Work conditions: You may be able to work without needing a separate work permit, but you must follow the conditions attached to your permission.
Important: Immigration rules can change. Always check the latest guidance from the Irish immigration authorities and confirm your specific eligibility based on your qualification and circumstances.