Mature Students

Applicants other than that School Leavers wishing to join Cork Centre for Architectural (CCAE) jointly offered by University College Cork and Munster Technological University, by the Mature Student route should be over the age of 23 and be able to provide information to support their application, as an alternative to Leaving Certificate points.

How do I apply?
Applications for the course are made through the Central Applications Office (CAO). The course code is CK606.

What kind of skills do I need?
The architectural programme requires a broad set of skills. An artistic ability will be important although the design studio work will help develop this. A good grasp of maths, English and a science-based subject would also be useful.

Must I submit a portfolio?
Yes. This is a requirement for Mature Student Applicants – see below for more details.

How many places are available for Mature Student Applicants?
Mature Students can play a positive role in the Architecture course and their inclusion is welcomed. Currently there is a generous quota of a maximum 10% of the First Year intake. 

What are the typical student numbers ?
In the first year of the course there are a maximum of 45 places.

What topics will be covered in first year?

• Design Studio: Design projects involving individual and group work, graphic techniques, sketching and painting, pencil drawing, freehand drawing, computer-aided drawing, model-making, web design, photography.
• Environmental Design: Storage and transfer of energy, comfort factors, solar gain, daylight factors, acoustics and noise, electricity.
• Construction & Material: Building elements, components and materials, moisture effects and moisture exclusion, construction requirements for floors, walls and roofs, brickwork and concrete, timber, metals, internal finishes, building regulations, safety.
• History & Theory: Overview of architectural history, Greek and Roman architecture, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture, shelter and settlements, articulation of form and space, colour theory, texture and form of materials.
• Structures: Structural terminology, material properties, force, stress and strain, transfer of loads, Newton's Laws.

Application and Interview Process
Applicants seeking entry by the Mature Student route should submit a short Curriculum Vitae and a Portfolio along with their application, via email to Jim Harrison (Jim.Harrison@mtu.ie) before midday 12pm on 24th April 2025.  

Your CV
With your application you are asked to provide:

• A detailed CV (maximum 2 pages) including
  • your Secondary / tertiary Education with dates & qualifications
  • your work experience (full/part time) – responsibilities, management and technical skills, teamwork
• Include a short written statement about yourself and why you would like to study architecture at CCAE and feel that you would be able to sustain the course. This could
  include any relevant information about your:
  • Interest in the arts, reading, hobbies, travel and participation in related activities.
  • Skills - not necessarily in graphics, drawing or IT – although these may be advantageous. Model making, mechanics or construction.
  • Team activities – sports, societies etc.
  • Achievements 

Your Portfolio
Assemble and submit a folder of A3 size (recommended but not obligatory) of between 6 to 10 pages. This could include:

• Drawings or sketches that show the range of your graphic skills
• Computer-generated images that exhibit IT experience
• Photographs – of practical or craft work: construction, model making, etc
• Photos of travel or favourite buildings or landscape

Or anything that you feel might give the interview panel an insight into your design
potential.  

The Interview
If your application is shortlisted you will be called for a short interview at CCAE (or online if unable to attend in person) during which you will be questioned about yourself and why you believe you would be capable of benefitting for the course. This might include your:

• Established interest in architecture and the desire to qualify and practice as a professional architect
• Visual, practical and intellectual capability in design
• Academic ability – returning to the world of learning: reading, writing and discussion
• Imagination and commitment towards a greener and more inclusive environment
• Personal ‘sustainability’ – personal or family circumstances, financial support over the length of the course, and ability to work with fellow students and contribute to ‘studio culture’
• Your Portfolio will be an essential part of this discussion, so consider this when you choose its contents.