Year 1

Predominantly year one is focused on the development of the learner’s practical skills and the processes associated with traditional jewellery and goldsmith workshops.  Learners receive one to one tuition on a daily basis and are trained to gain an in-depth knowledge of traditional techniques and workshop equipment while working with precious metal and gemstones.  Quality of craftsmanship and accuracy are instilled in the learners from day one of this course and are key to its successful completion.

Drawing skills and design are introduced  and are intrinsically woven throughout the three year programme to encourage and nurture creativity and individuality.  Learners will be provided with in-depth skills in hand engraving, piercing, sheet fabrication and soldering, casting, stone setting, gemmology, design and what it takes to bring these techniques from the workbench to a successful business.

Year 2

Year 2 allows the students to build on the work of the previous year, developing their practical skills and design creativity while incorporating new technologies.

Design development is supported through one to one tutorials. All written assignments are practice-based and practice-led which allows for an exploration into the historical and contemporary contexts of design and techniques.

Year 3

Year 3 focuses on the development of the learners in preparation for employment within the jewellery trade and industry.

Learners identify a theme on which they develop and deliver a self-directed project.

This involves developing a large body of practical work demonstrating their skills in making and design. In addition they also develop the business entrepreneurship and marketing skills needed to be successful upon graduation. Presentation skills, creative writing and the ability to promote your work and your craft are key to the success of the DCCIA Jewellery & Goldsmithing graduates.

In support of this aim each learner will be paired with an industry mentor who will impart their industry knowledge and business acumen.  This mentor along with the course tutors will support the learners to complete the final project and support their entry into the  jewellery and goldsmithing industry.

Examinations & Assessment

Assessment is a combination of continuous assessment and final exams.

Ongoing formative assessment is a major component of the Jewellery & Goldsmithing programme, informal progress reviews, one-to-one tutorials and group tutorials take place at regular intervals throughout modules.

Opportunities after graduation

DCCIA Jewellery & Goldsmithing graduates progress to further education nationally and internationally.  They progress into the jewellery industry in Ireland and many are now head goldsmiths running some of the busiest workshops in the country.  Many go into self-employment in location all over Ireland and abroad as designer makers and specialists in goldsmithing, diamond mounting, retail and manufacture.