People who shape how things look, communicate, and function — from advertising campaigns and brand identities to the buildings we live and work in every day – work in this sector. Advertising, design and architecture jobs can be found everywhere from a two-person design studio to a national architecture practice, in cities and small towns across the country.
Examples of jobs in this sector
Creates visual content for campaigns, brands, and print or digital media.
Possible Pathway Higher/Further Education, building a strong personal portfolio alongside.
Writes and shapes the words behind adverts, brand campaigns, and content.
Possible Pathway Think about writing for a school paper, blog, or local club before going on to further study.
Manages the relationship between an agency and its clients, keeping campaigns on track.
Possible Pathway Higher Education in business/marketing, usually starting as an Account Executive.
Designs buildings and spaces, from concept through to construction.
Possible Pathway Higher Education — a 5–7-year RIAI-accredited degree before registration.
A more technical role focused on detailed drawings and building specifications.
Possible Pathway Higher/Further Education in architectural technology, then building practice experience.
Designs how digital products and apps look and work, in growing demand across Irish agencies and in-house teams.
Possible Pathway Higher Education in design/computing, as well as self-taught with free tools and a strong portfolio.
Prepares tenders and proposals that win new client work for design and architecture practices.
Possible Pathway Work Experience or Transferable Skills — strong writing and organisation often matter more than a specific degree.
Possible Pathways into this sector
- Look at Higher Education options
Think about a course related to one of these areas. Many universities offer these, for eg: BA (Hons) in Art & Design, progressing into Graphic & Digital Design, Fashion, and Animation at LSAD (Limerick School of Art & Design, part of TUS) or a BA in Architecture at one of Ireland’s five RIAI-accredited architecture degree universities. - Look at Further Education options
Many FE colleges offer courses in subjects like interior architecture and design, or art and design with portfolio preparation. Having a portfolio of work to show potential employers will help. And keep an eye out on what’s happening- CCAI are currently developing a new National Apprenticeship in Advertising and Communications. - Think about work experience
Many design studios, ad agencies, and architecture practices also take on Transition Year students. The Architecture Foundation runs an in-schools programme introducing students to careers in architecture. The Institute of Designers in Ireland showcases new work and helps with career planning on The New Now. - Transferable Skills / Local Experience
Designing a poster or social media graphics for a school event, sports club, or local charity; entering a design competition; helping a family business with a logo or flyer.
Free Online Tools to Practise With
- Canva graphic design basics
- GIMP or Krita free image editing
- Figma free tier for UX/UI design
- SketchUp Free basic architectural modelling
How to Find These Organisations
This sector has hundreds of studios, agencies, and practices across Ireland. Here are some links to get you started:
- IDI (Institute of Designers in Ireland) A directory of designers nationwide.
- DCCI (Design & Crafts Council Ireland) Searchable by county.
- RIAI (Architecture) List members on their website.
- Creative & Communications Association (CCAI) (Advertising) also list members on their website.
Skills Worth Developing
- Having good ideas & creative thinking
- Drawing, sketching, or using design software
- Explaining your ideas clearly
- Paying attention to detail
- Working well with others and taking feedback
- Basic computer/tech competence
Resources & Further Reading
- CCAI Guide for Young People
- NCAD Open Days and Events
- RIAI Practice Directory
- The 100 Archive A good round up of visual communications companies and projects
- Flow Career paths for designers
- The New Now An IDI platform that aims to bridge the gap between students graduating from design college and starting in the industry.
- The IDI Graduate Design Awards 2026 An annual celebration of the most innovative projects from design graduates across the island of Ireland.
- Design 2035 Report This research launched by the IDI this year maps the future of design in Ireland across enterprise, public services, education, and government.
- Careers Portal Careers in Architecture
- Architecture Foundation in Schools Learn more about careers in architecture
