Furniture Design and Manufacture

This programme combines creative furniture design with hands-on timber craft and manufacturing technology. You study the full design process from initial concept sketching through to technical drawing, CAD/CAM modelling, and physical production in well-equipped workshops. Specialisms include residential and commercial furniture, fitted interiors, joinery, and sustainable material use. A typical week balances studio design work, workshop-based making, and lectures in material science or business. Work placement in the furniture or fit-out industry is a core part of the programme, and international Erasmus opportunities allow you to experience European craft traditions. By graduation you can design, prototype, and oversee manufacture of furniture to a professional standard.

Entry is typically through the CAO with a Leaving Certificate, and points are generally moderate to high for this specialist programme. There are no fixed Higher-level subject requirements beyond the standard minimum of O6/H7 in English and Mathematics, though Higher-level Design and Communication Graphics, Art, or Technical Graphics are strongly beneficial. QQI Level 5 or 6 qualifications in woodwork, design, or craft from a College of Further Education provide a recognised progression route into the programme. Mature applicants (aged 23 or over) may apply directly to ATU and are assessed on life and work experience, while HEAR and DARE schemes support applicants from socioeconomic or disability backgrounds. A portfolio of creative or technical work, while not always mandatory, strengthens your application.

Ireland's construction sector and growing hospitality and commercial fit-out industries mean demand for furniture design and joinery professionals remains reasonably strong. Graduates with both design ability and technical manufacturing skills are valued by employers who find this combination difficult to recruit. Starting salaries typically range from around €28,000 to €35,000, rising considerably with experience or business ownership. Those who develop entrepreneurial skills or specialise in sustainable or bespoke furniture can command premium fees in niche markets.