Advertising and Marketing Communications

This course gives you a thorough grounding in advertising strategy, consumer behaviour, copywriting, media planning, and digital marketing communications. You explore how brands are built and how campaigns are crafted across print, broadcast, social media, and out-of-home channels. Practical modules cover creative concept development, media buying, and data analytics, while dedicated studio sessions let you produce real campaign work. A significant feature of the programme is a structured placement year with a Dublin advertising or communications agency, where you gain hands-on industry experience. A typical week combines lectures on marketing theory, creative workshops, group campaign briefs, and client-facing project work, reflecting the fast-paced nature of the industry.

Entry is normally through the CAO with a Leaving Certificate including at least six subjects, with English at Higher level strongly recommended given the writing-intensive nature of the course. Points requirements are generally moderate to high, reflecting consistent demand for the programme at TU Dublin. Useful Leaving Cert subjects include Business, Art, Media Studies, and Mathematics, though no single subject combination is mandatory. Applicants holding a relevant QQI Level 5 or Level 6 award in Marketing, Media, or Business may apply through the QQI/FET progression route with a distinction profile. Mature applicants aged 23 or over may apply directly to TU Dublin and are assessed on motivation, relevant experience, and interview performance. HEAR and DARE access schemes are available for eligible applicants from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds or with a disability.

Demand for marketing communications professionals in Ireland remains strong, particularly in digital channels where skills in paid media, content strategy, and analytics are highly sought after. Dublin's status as a European hub for major technology companies creates consistent demand for graduates with advertising and brand communication expertise. Starting salaries for graduate roles typically range from approximately €28,000 to €35,000 gross per annum, with progression to senior account management or strategy roles bringing significantly higher earnings. The combination of creative and analytical skills developed on this course makes graduates competitive both in Ireland and internationally.