The MA Interaction Design programme at National College of Art and Design (NCAD) explores the ways people engage with digital products, systems and services, with opportunities to work with industry professionals.

During the one-year, studio-based programme, students explore how we interact with existing, novel and evolving technologies, seeking to design meaningful, responsible and engaging experiences grounded in real human contexts.

Bringing together candidates from diverse disciplines, including design, art, computer science, psychology and business, the course fosters a dynamic and collaborative community of practice.

Its identity lies in an applied, people-centred and socially engaged approach that combines rigorous research, creative exploration and iterative real-world testing.

Based in Dublin's city centre, at the heart of Ireland's technology sector, the programme connects students with industry, communities and research partners, culminating in a self-directed major project and dissertation.

School: National College of Art and Design, School of Design
Course: MA Interaction Design
Type: Postgraduate
Location: Dublin, Ireland
Course dates: September 2026 to August 2027
Application deadline: 30 March 2026

Find out more about the course and apply ›

What will I learn during this course?

– Core theories, methods and tools needed to design experiences, products and services
– Application of theoretical foundation through studio projects and collaborations with partners across the industry
– Proficiency in user experience, interface design and service design
– Skills in systems thinking, physical computing and data visualisation
– Translating insight into carefully prototyped and evaluated outcomes

What are the requirements?

– The course welcomes both recent graduates and professionals transitioning into the design field
– An approved Bachelor's degree at a minimum level of second-class honours (2.2)
– Applicants who do not meet the academic requirements may be considered based on prior work or learning experience (RPEL)

What facilities and resources are available?

– 3D printing suite with SLS and SLA printers
– Laser cutter
– CNC milling machines
– Wood and metals workshop
– Welding facilities
– Plastic and silicone forming and moulding
– VR equipment
– Physical computing (Microbit, Arduino, Raspberry Pi and associated sensors)
– Photography studio with green screen
– Finishing and project spaces for prototyping
– Digital camera, audio recording and filming equipment

What career prospects can I expect upon graduating?

The course prepares its graduates for roles in UX, service design and user research across consultancies, multinationals, government, healthcare and non-profit organisations, as well as those who wish to progress to PhD-level study.

Who teaches this course?

– Emma Creighton, programme lead
– Marcus Hanratty, academic staff
– Saoirse Higgins, academic staff
– Jennifer Groarke, academic staff
– Tara Whelan, academic staff
– Adam Gibney, academic staff
– Eoin Mahon, academic staff
– Nick Russell, technical staff

Dezeen Courses

Dezeen Courses is a service from Dezeen that provides details of architecture, interiors and design courses around the world. Click here for more information.