NUI Galway

Biodiversity & Land-Use Planning - Blended Learning or Modular Basis

The Course
This course provides you with the crucial skills and knowledge to manage biodiversity resources sustainably. The programme's objectives are:

• To integrate international perspectives and new research findings into a biodiversity and land-use approach;

• To provide research-led opportunities that will help find solutions to conservation and planning conflicts;

• To develop expertise within local authority and public/private sector staff to meet international biodiversity and conservation obligations.

This course is devoted to scientific and policy coursework delivered in a blended learning format, comprising a mixture of face-to-face contact (approximately 12–15 hours per module) and private study combined with online support. Students are expected to carry out projects, and prepare written reports and oral presentations on relevant subjects.

Aimed at individuals employed in the conservation, planning and engineering sectors, this course has been re-developed to meet the needs of working graduates wanting to upskill or change careers. Flexible learning opportunities are a key aim of this programme and students can now complete individual modules in a 'select and payas- you-go' fashion. Credits for modules taken may be accumulated over a period of up to six years.

3 Good Reasons To Study This Course

1. The programme has been jointly developed with Galway County Council to meet identified training needs.

2. It is designed to enhance the skills of local authority and private consultancy staff and to help to ensure compliance with the Habitats Directive's requirements.

3. The programme assists in meeting such legal obligations as Strategic Environmental Assessments, Environmental Impact Assessments, and Appropriate Assessments.

Entry requirements

Minimum Entry Requirements
The programme is open to individuals who have a Level 8 primary degree or equivalent in an appropriate discipline. Applicants who do not have an academic background but have relevant experience may also apply.

Duration

2 years (blended learning); 2-6 years (modular).

Careers or further progression

Career Opportunities
Our obligations to protect the environment under EU legislation mean that this course will play a pivotal role for those currently working in, or who wish to enter, the planning or engineering professions in local government or as private consultants.

Graduates of this course will ensure that governments, local authorities and private consultancies will help implement sustainable policies that contribute to economic recovery while managing limited biodiversity resources.

Further enquiries

Dr Gesche Kindermann
T: +353 91 493 863
E: gesche.kindermann@nuigalway.ie

Application date

Applications are made online via the NUI Galway Postgraduate Applications System.

1MBL2, blended learning; 1MBU1, modular.

When To Apply: NUI Galway does not set a deadline for receipt of applications (with some exceptions). Offers will be issued on a continuous basis. Candidates are encouraged to apply as early as possible.