Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Sculpture and Combined Media

The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Sculpture and Combined Media program at Technological University of the Shannon Midlands Midwest (TUSMM) in Ireland offers students a dynamic and interdisciplinary approach to sculptural practice. This program integrates traditional sculptural techniques with contemporary art practices, digital technologies, and mixed media approaches, providing students with a comprehensive foundation in sculptural art.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Sculpture and Combined Media program at TUSMM is carefully crafted to cover a wide range of topics essential for students' artistic development. Courses include traditional sculptural methods such as carving, modeling, casting, and assemblage, as well as exploration of new materials and processes. Students also study art history, critical theory, and professional practice skills to contextualize their artistic practice and prepare for careers in the arts.

Research Focus: TUSMM places a strong emphasis on research within the field of sculpture and combined media. The program encourages students to engage in research projects that explore innovative approaches, experimental techniques, and critical issues in sculptural practice. Research topics may include the intersection of sculpture with other artistic disciplines, the use of technology in sculptural creation, sustainability in art-making processes, or the role of sculpture in social and environmental contexts. Through research, students expand their creative horizons, challenge conventional notions of sculpture, and contribute to the advancement of sculptural discourse.

Industry Engagement: The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Sculpture and Combined Media program at TUSMM facilitates industry engagement to provide students with practical experience and exposure to professional practices in the field of sculpture. TUSMM collaborates with sculpture studios, foundries, galleries, public art organizations, and arts festivals to offer internships, workshops, residencies, and exhibitions. Students have the opportunity to work alongside practicing artists, fabricators, and art professionals, gaining insights into the technical, creative, and business aspects of the sculptural industry.

Global Perspective: TUSMM recognizes the global nature of contemporary art practices and incorporates a global perspective into its sculpture and combined media program. Students are exposed to diverse cultural influences, artistic traditions, and international sculptural movements. They have the opportunity to study abroad, participate in international sculpture symposiums, or engage with visiting artists and scholars from around the world. This global perspective broadens students' artistic horizons, fosters cross-cultural understanding, and prepares them for careers in the global art market.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements 

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 60% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 or 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 79 with a minimum of 17 in each section.
• PTE: Overall score of 52 with a minimum of 50 in each section.
• DET: Overall score of 105.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

It's important to note that entry requirements can vary by program and may change over time. Additionally, some programs may have additional requirements, such as interviews, portfolios, or work experience.

TUS: Midlands Midwest, situated in Ireland, provides various scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support the academic aspirations of international students seeking to pursue their education at the institution.

Merit-Based Scholarships: The university offers merit-based scholarships for outstanding academic achievers. These scholarships often consider students' academic records, achievements, and potential contributions to the academic community.

Country-Specific Scholarships: TUS may offer scholarships specifically tailored to students from certain countries or regions, encouraging diversity and inclusivity within the student body.

Financial Need-Based Scholarships: In addition to merit-based scholarships, the institution may provide financial need-based scholarships to students facing economic hardships, ensuring access to quality education irrespective of financial constraints.

Sports and Art Scholarships: TUS recognizes talents beyond academics and may offer scholarships to students excelling in sports, arts, or other extracurricular activities. These scholarships aim to support and nurture students' diverse talents.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Sculpture and Combined Media program at Technological University of the Shannon Midlands Midwest (TUSMM) in Ireland have a diverse array of career paths available to them in the dynamic field of sculpture and combined media.

Professional Sculptor: Graduates can pursue careers as professional sculptors, creating original sculptural artworks for galleries, exhibitions, public installations, and private collections. They specialize in various sculptural techniques, such as carving, modeling, casting, or assemblage, and experiment with a wide range of materials, from traditional to unconventional.

Public Artist: Graduates may choose to work as public artists, creating site-specific sculptures and installations for public spaces, urban environments, parks, and civic buildings. They collaborate with architects, city planners, and community stakeholders to design and implement public art projects that enhance the aesthetic and cultural fabric of communities.

Gallery Owner/Curator: Graduates with entrepreneurial skills can establish their own art galleries or exhibition spaces, specializing in sculpture and combined media artworks. They curate exhibitions, manage gallery operations, represent emerging and established artists, and promote sculptural art to collectors, patrons, and the public.

Art Educator: Those passionate about teaching and sharing their knowledge can pursue careers as art educators, teaching sculpture and combined media classes at schools, universities, community centers, or art studios. They inspire creativity, mentor aspiring artists, and impart technical skills and conceptual frameworks through hands-on instruction and theoretical studies.

Freelance Sculptor/Commissioned Artist: Graduates can work as freelance sculptors, accepting commissions for custom sculptures, public art installations, or sculptural projects. They collaborate with clients, architects, designers, and art consultants to create personalized artworks that meet specific needs, requirements, and artistic visions.

Art Conservator/Restorer: Graduates interested in art conservation can pursue careers as art conservators or restorers, working in museums, conservation laboratories, or cultural institutions. They assess, clean, repair, and preserve sculptural artworks and artifacts to ensure their long-term preservation and integrity.

Art Therapist: Graduates with an interest in the therapeutic use of art can work as art therapists, using sculpture and combined media techniques to facilitate healing, self-expression, and personal growth in individuals facing mental health challenges or trauma. They work in hospitals, clinics, schools, and community organizations, conducting art therapy sessions and supporting clients' emotional well-being.

Exhibition Designer/Art Installer: Graduates can work as exhibition designers or art installers, designing and installing sculptural artworks and exhibitions for museums, galleries, art fairs, and cultural institutions. They collaborate with curators, artists, and exhibition coordinators to create immersive and engaging exhibition environments that showcase sculptural artworks effectively.