Learners will refine and develop their typographic skills through the creation of a visual identity project for a location. They will explore the full potential of typographic communication, from the expressive to the functional, through the professional framework of visual identity design.

Learners will be introduced to typographic research methodologies and typographic meaning, typographic systems and multilingual typography, and crafting logotypes and letterforms.

There will be a focus on the theoretical underpinnings, contemporary issues, topics and concepts relating to typography, introducing learners to the fundamental principles and processes of the discipline, and enabling the learner to approach creative work from a theoretically informed perspective.

This specialist pathway is a deep dive into typography across a variety of future-facing contexts that includes print, screen-based, interactive media and beyond. Learners will explore the potential of typefaces in the context of contemporary and future applications, guided by experts and lecturers, shaped by a dynamic mix of participatory and experiential learning.

There will be a  focus on the theoretical underpinnings, contemporary issues, topics and concepts relating to typography, introducing learners to the fundamental principles and processes of the discipline, and enabling the learner to approach creative work from a theoretically informed perspective.

Each participant will independently create a typographic visual identity system for a Dublin location. Participants will learn how to research, express and systematise a typographic identity for their location. Independent work will be guided by weekly seminars & workshops covering aspects of typographic communication and craft, including:

• Typographic research methodologies
• Typeface anatomy and typographic meaning
• Typographic hierarchy systems
• Bi/multi-lingual typography
• Drawing logotypes

Upon completion, you will have created a typographic visual identity including:

• Identity pitch presentation
• Typographic guidelines
• Sample outputs of your identity system

Sat Feb 1st – 4h in person
Web Feb 5th – 1h online
Sat Feb 8th – 4h in person
Web Feb 12th – 1h online
Sat Feb 15th – 4h in person
Web Feb 19th – 1h online
Sat Feb 22nd – 4h in person
Web Feb 26th – 1h online

The Typographic Futures programme is a creative professional development programme for designers beginning their careers. Upon completion, participants’ portfolios will include a typographic visual identity project made to industry standards. Further, the typographic skills acquired will have application in all areas of communication design.

Educational Standard

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

Applicants who do not meet the minimum academic entry requirements may be considered on the basis of prior work or learning experience (RPEL). 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.

As part of your application, you will be asked to upload the following supporting documentation:

1. A Statement of Interest – up to 500 words framing your reasons for applying to the programme. Please indicate a subject/discipline area that you believe can best advance your practice.
2. A recent CV
3. Certified transcripts of previous programmes followed
4. Certified copies of degree / certificates and/or other appropriate third level qualifications bearing the official stamp of the institution.
5. English Language Proficiency certificate 
   • This is only required if English is not your first language. 
   • You can see the full list of the English Language Qualifications NCAD recognises at this link.