Certificate in Digital Law and Regulatory Frameworks: AI, Cybersecurity, Privacy, Data Protection and Intellectual Property
Course Overview
A flexible, practice-focused course exploring the legal and regulatory challenges of AI, cybersecurity, privacy, data protection, and intellectual property in today’srapidly evolving digital landscape.
This course is funded by the Micro-credential Learner Fee Subsidy 2026 programme, and fees are subsidised at 80% for all eligible learner categories. Applications must be made via the Springboard+ website. Note: this is NOT a Springboard+ funded course. Please visit HEA - Springboard+ for further information.
Why Study The Certificate in Digital Law and Regulatory Framework?
The Certificate in Digital Law and Regulatory Frameworks, is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape. Covering key areas such as Artificial Intelligence, cybersecurity, privacy, data protection, and intellectual property, the course offers apractical and engaging exploration of how law responds to digital innovation.
Delivered through blended learning with interactive workshops, it is ideal for professionals and graduates seeking to enhance their expertise or pivot into new roles. Participants will develop critical analytical skills, engage with real-world scenarios, and gain a strong understanding of both Irish and international regulatory frameworks. Whether your interest lies in legal practice, business, or policy, this course provides a foundation to help you stay ahead in an increasingly digital world.
This certificate is a micro-credential and is funded by the Higher Education Authority under Human Capital Initiative Pillar 3, Innovation and Agility.
By completing this course, learners will be able to:
- Develop a practical understanding of key digital law and regulatory frameworks
- Strengthen knowledge of AI regulation, cybersecurity, privacy, data protection, and intellectual property
- Build confidence in identifying and analysing legal and compliance risks in digital environments
- Apply legal principles to real-world business and technology scenarios
- Improve decision-making and governance awareness within organisational settings
- Contribute more effectively to discussions around technology, ethics, risk management, and regulatory compliance
- Enhance professional capability in legal, administrative, compliance, and operational roles
- Support career progression by broadening responsibilities within existing roles
- Prepare for further study or professional development in digital law, governance, cybersecurity, or compliance
- Gain industry-relevant knowledge that is increasingly valued across public and private sector organisations
Course Details
This Level 8 programme (15 ECTS) is delivered over one academic semester and consists of three specialist modules: Cybersecurity and AI Law, InternationalPrivacy and Data Protection Law, and Intellectual Property Law. Designed with flexibility in mind, the course is delivered via blend learning with pre-recordedlectures and live interactive workshops, making it ideal for working professionals. Each module includes structured assessments such as assignments, projects,and examinations to support practical, applied learning. Learners benefit from expert-led teaching, access to leading legal databases, and a strong focus on real-world legal and regulatory challenges. With a combination of independent study and guided instruction, this course provides a comprehensive and accessiblepathway to developing in-demand expertise in digital law and regulation.
This certificate is a micro-credential and is funded by the Higher Education Authority under Human Capital Initiative Pillar 3, Innovation and Agility.
Modules
This module comprises a specialized focus on patents, copyright, trademarks and industrial designs and the principles and legislation and caselaw regulating each. In focus also will be the common law intellectual property rights of passing off and confidential information (and related caselaw).
Learners critically analyse the law from both a practical and theoretical perspective in the context of a wide range of communications and commercial activities, both traditional and online.
The Module covers a key area of specialized legal knowledge with significant importance for the operation of commercial and non-commercial organisations, both conventional and online, across the European Union. The Module aims to provide learners with a focused knowledge of privacy and data protection law with a particular emphasis on the General Data Protection Regulation and subsequent regulations and pieces of legislation. Learners are enabled to understand the importance, scope and hierarchy of privacy and data protection requirements, including the concept of consent and the scope of the remedies and penalties for non-compliance.
The aim of this module is to provide you with a detailed and comprehensive knowledge of the legal challenges related to Artificial Intelligence, with particular emphasis on the UK as well as current international agreements. This will provide you with the opportunity to develop your knowledge surrounding how AI works, its role in society and how the law can regulate its use or how the law will incorporate the impact of AI into the pre-existing legal tests that currently exist.
Course Contact
- Dublin Main Campus
Timetables
How to Apply
Entry Requirements
2 H5 and 4 O6/H7 grades, to include a language (English, Irish or another language).
English language
Griffith College is accepting the online Duolingo English Test (DET) as valid proof of English proficiency. For more information, please visit here.
How to Apply
Applicants under 23 years of age:
We will require photo identification as stated above. In addition, we will also require a copy of your leaving certificate results and an up-to-date curriculum vitae.
Applicants over 23 years of age (Mature students):
If you are 23 years of age on or before the 1st January of the year you want to enter, you may apply as a mature student. Mature students must apply to Griffith College directly online using the Apply Online facility on the website homepage or the button below. Mature applicants will be asked for a copy of their passport.
Fees
Tuition Fees
Dublin: 1,900 EUR
Progression
Progression Opportunities
This course provides a strong foundation in digital law and regulation, helping learners build the knowledge and confidence needed to navigate today’s fast-changing digital environment. It is particularly valuable for professionals working in legal, business, administration, compliance, governance, and technology-related roles.
Career & Professional Development
The course is designed to enhance professional skills rather than promise immediate career change. However, it can support progression into or within roles related to:
- Compliance and regulatory support
- Data protection and privacy administration
- Digital governance and risk management
- Legal and administrative support
- Cybersecurity awareness and policy support
- AI governance and responsible technology practices
