Your browser needs to be upgraded. Upgrade to a different browser or install Google Chrome Frame to experience this site. Many of the most important Irish artists, designers and art teachers have studied or taught in the College.

It has long been the central and most important art and design educational institution in Ireland. The origins of the College date from 1746 when Robert West had a private drawing school in George's Lane, Dublin, which was taken over by the Dublin Society (later the RDS ). Throughout the eighteenth century the college was home to three schools: Figure Drawing, Landscape and Ornamental Drawing and Architectural Drawing.

The School of Modelling was added in 1811. From 1854 the institution was controlled by the Department of Science and Art, London. In 1877 it was renamed The Dublin Metropolitan School of Art.

The Department of Education took control in 1924, and twelve years later it became the National College of Art. In 1971 the National College of Art and Design was established by act of an tOireachtas and is now governed by a board (An Bord) appointed by the Minister for Education and Science. The College's campus is situated in Thomas Street, in the historic Liberties area of Dublin.