Environmental Sciences (M.Sc. / P.Grad.Dip.)

The degree in Environmental Sciences, the first of its kind in Ireland, has an established pedigree, attracting students with diverse academic backgrounds from Ireland and abroad. It comprises a series of taught modules encompassing a variety of current environmental themes, followed by a five-month research project. There is also the possibility to opt for a Postgraduate Diploma in Environmental Sciences, consisting of the taught modules only.

The aims of this course are to promote an understanding of environmental science, and the capability to apply that knowledge to current environmental issues and sound environmental management; to develop the necessary intellectual skills and practical expertise to design and execute independent research; and to cultivate skilled communicators able to organise ideas and disseminate them through written and oral presentations.

Following the successful completion of the taught part of the course, students embark on a closely supervised research project intended to expand the skills and knowledge base acquired in earlier modules. Previous research projects have covered a range of subjects, including groundwater contamination; atmospheric heavy metal deposition; environmental education; sewage processing systems; bio-indicators of marine pollution; microplastics; the impacts of erosion in African lakes; ocean chemistry and climate change; and radon in natural and work environment.