In a series of classes, you will explore key principles in research ethics such as voluntary participation, informed consent, anonymity, confidentiality, potential for harm. Participants on the course will engage in critical examination of ‘real world’ examples and through these case-study analyses examine the consequences of different ethical models.

Participants will also be introduced to relevance of ecological ethics and decolonial ethical models to contemporary creative practices. 

This module aims to equip learners with tools for ethical analyses, combining theory and practice in a way that can be applicable to a wide array of disciplinary  and real-world scenarios.

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. They are required for successful funding applications to arts organisations. 

The professional diploma is also be an excellent foundation for a future research degree (MPhil, MLitt, MRes, PhD)

Educational Standard

All applicants are expected to present an approved Bachelor degree at minimum level of 2nd class honours (2.2)

Candidates may be required to pass a qualifying examination set by the relevant department before being accepted to a Masters degree programme. Attendance at selected undergraduate lecture courses at NCAD, together with related written work may be prescribed.

You may apply for the programme if you are currently completing your Undergraduate Degree. NCAD will review the rest of your application If necessary, we can make you a Conditional Offer. When your degree is completed and you send us final transcripts we will upgrade this to a Full Offer.

Applicants who have not been educated through English must show proof of achieving IELTS 6.5 (with a minimum of 6 in the writing section on the Academic Version) or an equivalent score in another accepted test.

Essential Supporting Documentation

• A statement framing your reasons for applying to the programme, i.e. how attending the above selected course will benefit you and your practice  (500 words)
• A recent CV
• Certified transcripts of previous programmes followed
• Certified copies of degree/ certificates and/or other appropriate third level qualifications bearing the official stamp of the institution.

Duration: 6 x 3h classes from

20th January to 3rd March 2025 inclusive (no session on 3rd February)

Monday mornings 10:00 AM-1:00 PM

Format: in-person and online (It is offered to both on-site learners and those who wish to participate remotely in real time via Zoom).
Classes take the form of workshops and seminars at our Thomas Street Campus (with occasional visits off-site). They are carefully tailored to value the learner’s prior experience and needs.

Seminars and workshops will be available to onsite and online learners in real time.