Cultural and Creative Industries Skillnet BA in Screen Industry Practice Opening New Talent Pathways

As Ireland’s screen industry continues to evolve and expand, a pioneering degree programme delivered by Cultural & Creative Industries Skillnet is helping experienced screen industry professionals gain formal higher education qualifications while continuing their careers. 

Co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union, the BA (Hons) in Screen Industry Practice - delivered through a partnership between Cultural and Creative Industries Skillnet, Technological University Dublin and Screen Ireland - is a powerful example of how industry-led learning can support talent development, strengthen career progression and champion lifelong learning across the sector. 

Through a Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning (RPEL) pathway, participants can use their professional experience and achievements to gain entry to the programme and work towards a Level 8 honours degree. The programme is specifically designed for professionals who may not have previously had the opportunity to pursue traditional higher education routes. 

Commenting on the impact of the programme, Ruth Baker, EU Programmes Manager, Skillnet Ireland, said: "The BA (Hons) in Screen Industry Practice is an excellent example of how industry and education can work together to create meaningful learning opportunities for experienced professionals. By recognising the value of workplace learning through the RPEL pathway, the programme removes barriers to higher education and supports lifelong learning, helping talented individuals to gain formal qualifications while continuing to contribute to the growth and success of Ireland's screen sector." 

Focused on critical reflection and self-directed learning, the programme encourages learners to examine their own professional development and place their careers within the wider historical, social, political and economic context of Ireland’s creative industries. By recognising the value of workplace learning, the programme supports lifelong learning while helping to build a more skilled and resilient workforce for the screen sector. 

Through its flexible, part-time format, participants can continue working in their careers while undertaking an 18-month learning journey centred on critical reflection, self-directed learning and professional growth. 

The importance of programmes like the Screen Industry Practice programme is reinforced by recent research commissioned by Cultural & Creative Industries Skillnet. The Skills Challenges in the Visual Arts, Performing Arts and Cultural Events Sectors report highlighted a strong appetite for learning and professional development across Ireland's cultural and creative workforce, while also identifying the need for greater access to certified continuing professional development, more strategic lifelong learning opportunities, and advanced skills development to support digital and climate transitions.  

In this context, the Screen Industry Practice programme represents a practical response to many of the challenges identified in the research, providing experienced professionals with a flexible, accredited pathway to advance their skills, gain formal qualifications and continue their professional development throughout their careers. 

Further information about the supports offered by Cultural and Creative Industries Skillnet are available online here.