Applied Catchment Science & Management

The Master of Applied Catchment Science & Management responds directly to key EU and national policy drivers, including the Nature Restoration Law (NRL) and the Water Framework Directive (WFD), which emphasise ecosystem restoration and improved water quality through catchment-based approaches. Central to these goals is hydromorphology, integrating river form, flow regimes, connectivity and sediment processes that underpin ecological health and restoration success. The programme equips graduates with applied skills within a technical and policy framework, preparing them to contribute to delivery of the NRL, WFD, the EU Biodiversity Strategy and Ireland’s Climate Action Plan.



Students will undertake a core programme of modules in hydromorphology, hydrology and freshwater ecology, run by experts in the the School of Geography, School of Civil Engineering and School of Biology and Environmental Science, respectively, together with technical modules in GIS and other complementary digital techniques. Central to student learning will be the application of acquired skills through a dedicated programme of fieldwork that addresses real world problems.

You may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), as UCD recognises formal, informal, and/or experiential learning. RPL may be awarded to gain Admission and/or credit exemptions on a programme. Please visit the UCD Registry RPL web page for further information. Any exceptions are also listed on this webpage.

https://www.ucd.ie/registry/prospectivestudents/admissions/rpl/

Apply online



Who Should Apply?

Full Time option suitable for:

Domestic(EEA) applicants: Yes

International (Non EU) applicants: No



Part Time option suitable for:

Domestic(EEA) applicants: Yes

International (Non EEA) applicants: No

1 year full-time,

2 years part-time.

W626 Applied Catchment Science & Management MSc Full-Time

Commencing September 2026

Graduate Taught



W627 Applied Catchment Science & Management MSc Part-Time Commencing September 2026

Graduate Taught

Graduates will be well prepared for careers in public agencies, consultancy, NGOs, international organisations or further academic research.