Design for Sustainability and Circular Economies (Certificate, L9,10 ECTS)

Course Overview

The Design for Sustainability and Circular Economies Certificate will facilitate and support design professionals in their practice-based enquiry into design for sustainability.

Course Details

• Level: 9
• Course Type: Flexible and Professional Learning
• Study Mode: Part Time
• Department: Design
• Start Date: 21/01/2026
• Duration: 12 weeks
• Fees: €1,400 – €939 via Design Skillnet

Entry Requirements

• Honours (Level 8) Degree: in a Design discipline or appropriate RPL (Recognition of Prior Learning)
• English Language: Applicants who do not have English as their first language must ensure they satisfy English Language requirements. For entry to undergraduate courses, a score of 5.5 in an IELTS or equivalent exam is required. For postgraduate courses, a score of 6.0 in an IELTS or equivalent exam is required.

Course Content

Semester 1

• Introduction to Sustainable Development (SD) inc. Case Studies, Best Practices in Design for Sustainability (DfS)
• Approaches, philosophies, and guiding principles in SD, DfS and CE
• Practical DfS strategies for designers
• Circular Economy (CE) Principles and application
• Policy, Legislation, Standardisation and Certification in DfS
• LCA (Life Cycle Assessment), Overview of LCA tools, simplified applied LCA for designers
• Material Flow and Production
• Social Corporate Responsibility (CSR) and Environmental Responsibility
• Marketing ‘Sustainable Design’ and managing customer / user expectations
• Business Model Design and Procurement for CE
• Packaging and Waste considerations for designers
• Regenerative Design Practice
• Sustainable Product Service Systems (SPSS)

Delivery

• Blended Learning: 10 weeks of online studio (3 hours per week) on Wednesdays from 2-5pm commencing Wednesday 21st January 2026.
• In-Person Days: 2 full in-person days at LSAD (dates to be confirmed).

Assessment

• Continuous Assessment: + Final Project.

Qualification

• Certificate in Design for Sustainability and Circular Economies (Level 9, 10 ECTS)

Application Deadline

• Monday 5th January 2026. Places are allocated on a first come first served basis. Course will be closed once the maximum number of applicants is reached. Courses run subject to viable numbers.

The program aims to:

• Increase awareness: Highlight opportunities and challenges facing design practices in the context of sustainability and circular economies.
• Critical evaluation: Encourage a critical examination of current cultural, social, economic, and ecological landscapes, and existing design models and approaches.
• Skill development: Equip participants with the tools and knowledge to adopt regenerative, circular, and sustainable practices in their design work.
• Address global challenges: Provide the means to enact meaningful change and future-proof design processes.

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Outline:

• Semester 1:
It includes case studies and best practices to illustrate these concepts.
• Circular Economy (CE) Principles and application: This module delves into the principles of the circular economy and how they can be applied in design practice.
• Policy, Legislation, Standardisation and Certification in DfS: This module examines relevant policies, legislation, standards, and certifications related to sustainable design.
• LCA ( Life Cycle Assessment), Overview of LCA tools, simplified applied LCA for designers: This module introduces Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) as a tool for evaluating the environmental impact of products and processes.
• Material Flow and Production: This module explores the flow of materials in production processes and their environmental implications.
• Social Corporate Responsibility (CSR) and Environmental Responsibility: This module examines the concepts of social corporate responsibility and environmental responsibility in design.
• Marketing ‘Sustainable Design’ and managing customer / user expectations: This module focuses on marketing sustainable design effectively and managing customer expectations.
• Sustainable Product Service Systems (SPSS): This module explores the concept of sustainable product service systems, which focus on providing services rather than solely products.
• Delivery:
• The course is delivered over 12 weeks in a blended format, combining online learning with in-person sessions.
• 10 weeks of online studio (3 hours per week) + 2 in-person days (LSAD)

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Assessment:

• Continuous Assessment + Final Project: The program utilizes a combination of continuous assessment and a final project to evaluate student learning.

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Teaching:

• Expert Specialists: The course is guided by expert specialists in the field of sustainable design.
• Online Learning Format: The majority of the course is delivered through an online learning platform.

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Other:

• Co-created with Design Skillnet: The program has been developed in collaboration with Design Skillnet.
• IDI (Institute of Designers in Ireland) and Design Skillnet Membership: Members of the IDI and Design Skillnet are eligible for a discounted, grant-aided course fee.

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Full course fee €1,400 – €939 via Design Skillnet. Eligible applicants can avail of a co-funding of €461

Technological University of the Shannon (TUS)

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Overview:

Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) is a multi-campus university in Ireland, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. It is known for its focus on applied learning and innovation, fostering strong industry ties and providing excellent employment opportunities for its graduates.

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Services Offered:

TUS provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:

Admissions & Support:

Admissions guidance, international student support, open days, student finance information, induction programs, and student support services.

Campus Life:

Accommodation options, career and employability services, chaplaincy and pastoral care, disability supports, learning support, student counselling, student health services, sports facilities, student union, clubs and societies.

Faculty Areas:

Business, Hospitality & Humanities, Engineering, Built Environment & Informatics, Sciences, Health & Technology, and Limerick School of Art & Design.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

TUS prioritizes a student-first approach, offering small class sizes and personalized attention. Students can expect a vibrant campus life with a range of clubs, societies, and sports activities. The university also provides comprehensive support services to ensure a positive and enriching student experience.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Applied Learning & Innovation:

TUS emphasizes practical skills and real-world application, preparing students for successful careers.

Strong Industry Ties:

The university has strong connections with industry partners, providing students with valuable internship and employment opportunities.

Excellent Employment Opportunities:

TUS graduates are highly sought after by employers, with a strong track record of successful career outcomes.

Vibrant Campus Life:

Students can enjoy a diverse and engaging campus experience with a range of clubs, societies, and sports activities.

Comprehensive Support Services:

TUS provides a wide range of support services to ensure students' academic and personal success.

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Academic Programs:

TUS offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate:

Programs in various disciplines, including business, engineering, science, technology, art, and design.

Postgraduate:

Master's and PhD programs in specialized fields.

Apprenticeships:

Programs in various trades and technical fields.

Flexible & Professional Learning:

Programs designed for working professionals.

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Other:

TUS is a QS 5 Star Rated University, recognized for its high-quality education and research. The university is also actively involved in research and development, with a focus on areas of national and global importance.