UCG'S ONE-YEAR ard diploma i gcumarsaid fheidmeach is a new and successful venture which teaches broadcast journalism skills through Irish. This postgraduate course is now in its third year and riarthoir Ronan O Dubhthaigh says the employment rate is running close to 100 per cent.

The course comprises about 60 per cent practical work. Theory is put into practice as quickly as possible, so the two elements of the course are closely linked, O Dubhthaigh says. The course is run in conjunction with a production company in Carraroe, Co Galway, so students use full broadcast-quality equipment.

Students do two types of work placement - work experience and work practice. In the work practice, they spend four weeks in Carraroe where they divide into three production companies and produce an eight-minute video.

As might be expected, graduates of the course have found employment in Teilifis na Gaeilge and Raidio na Gaeltachta, as well as in independent production companies. However, O Dubhthaigh says, graduates can apply for both English and Irish broadcasting positions.

The market is far from saturated with graduates, he says independent production companies are on the increase.

Applicants for the ard diploma should have a primary degree, in any discipline, and fluent Irish. Admission is based on an application form, a portfolio and, possibly, an interview. There are 15 places each year and forms are available from the admissions office in UCG (closing date: April 11th).