INTRODUCTION In 2012 GMIT Letterfrack was designated the National Centre of Excellence in Furniture Design and Technology. It is regarded, both nationally and internationally, as the leading provider of third level programmes related to furniture and wood products. Programmes on the campus are supported by Connemara West (a community and rural development organisation based in North-West Connemara). Currently the college has 250 full-time students studying on five different degree programmes.


Programmes focused on the Furniture Industry For the past twenty-five years, GMIT has delivered programmes related to all aspects of the furniture industry. A common first year enables students to develop all the necessary skills required for designing and producing furniture prototypes. Depending on the choice of programme, students begin to specialise in either design or technology in year two. Graduates contribute to, and influence, the fields of design processes and manufacture of furniture in ways that are innovative, creative and responsive to the needs and development of a quality furniture industry. In addition, the campus has established links with colleges in Europe and the US as well as with progressive and advanced manufacturing companies from overseas. Options to study abroad are also facilitated through the Erasmus and Socrates EU-funded programmes.


A twenty week placement with a company forms part of the programmes for all students. These placements take place in year three and provide students with opportunities to experience life in the furniture industry, in either Ireland or in companies based around the globe. Workshop facilities at the college are second to none, with the most advanced machinery and computer technology available for use by students. Graduates of these programmes are highly valued by employers in Ireland and overseas. Under new programme structures for 2013, students can apply for these industry-focused programmes at both Level 7 and Level 8 entry with multiple exit awards available.


Teacher Training Programme


GMIT Letterfrack also offers a post-primary teacher training programme - the Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Design & Technology Education. This programme trains students to become teachers of technological subjects up to Leaving Certificate in post-primary schools. Teaching practice takes place in secondary schools as part of the training and GMIT Letterfrack has adopted modern and innovative learning and teaching methods, to ensure that graduates are well equipped to become excellent teachers.


With a strong emphasis on project-based learning, students on programmes at the campus become excellent knowledge workers and apply their new skills in ways that are innovative and creative, yet with a strong practical focus. If you are considering your options it is worthwhile coming to one of our open days to meet with current students and our highly dedicated staff and to see first-hand the state-of-the-art facilities available for use by students on campus during the college term.


Dermot O’Donovan, Head of Department, GMIT Letterfrack.


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