Certificate in Critical Design Philosophies
Delivery Mode
hybrid
Start Date
2026-09-24
End Date
2027-01-07
Level
EFQ Level 7 / NFQ Level 9
Fee
€1 100
ECTS
10
Overview
The course 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. Times + Dates The course runs on Thursdays (12noon – 2.30pm), from 24th September 2026 to 7th January 2027.
What You'll Learn
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.
Requirements
Undergraduate qualification of 2nd Class Honours or higher at Honours Degree level in design or a related discipline. Applicants may also be considered provided that they can demonstrate Honours Degree equivalence, which can be verified through our RPL [recognition of prior learning] process.