University of Limerick

Sustainable Resource Management - Policy & Practice

This novel course takes a multidisciplinary approach to environmental sustainability devised by UL and NUIG to respond to rapidly growing interest among students in an environmental/ resource management taught MSc., and to market demands for graduates with more applied knowledge of the environmental sector. Strongly research led, it is unique in that it combines the expertise of both institutions in relation to urban form and function and landscape evaluation and management for conservation in a jointly awarded MSc postgraduate degree.

The 12-month long course comprises new modules taught only at postgraduate level and aims to provide participants with the skills, knowledge and experience that are needed to pursue successful careers in managing environmental resources sustainability. It includes analysis of our major environmental challenges, including biodiversity conservation, climate change and the accumulation of pollutants. The course will help develop government policy and economic recovery by producing top quality graduates who can contribute to a smart economy and hasten implementation of green technologies. Given the pressure on and competition for limited resources, the course applies an evidence based approach to developing solutions for all system users. Graduates will become technically fluent in selected environmental science theory, policy development, implementation and best practice. Best practice is communicated through study visits, guest seminars, fieldwork and PowerPoint presentations: currently a study visit is made to Malmo, Sweden. Each year the class has included international students, who are able to explain problems and solutions relevant to their countries which helps add an international perspective.

Entry requirements

At least a second class honours primary degree (Level 8 - National Qualifications Authority of Ireland) in an appropriate discipline, or a professional or other equivalent qualification recognised by both the University of Limerick and NUI Galway. This course is suitable for graduates with a primary degree in the Environmental Sciences/Engineering/Economics or Geography/Biological Sciences/Ecology and Earth Sciences who wish to extend their knowledge and skills for a career related to resource management. Mature students with relevant experience are most welcome to apply. A strong personal statement demonstrating interest in the course is also essential as this will be considered as part of the application. Applicants may be required to attend for interview.

English Language Requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of either prior successful completion of a degree qualification taught through the medium of English or meet one of the criteria below (no longer than two years prior to application):

Acceptable English Language qualifications include the following:

•Matriculation examinations from European countries where English is presented as a subject and an acceptable level is achieved

•Irish Leaving Certificate English –Ordinary Level Grade D or above

•TOEFL – 580 (paper based) or 90 (internet based)

•IELTS – Minimum score of 6.5 with no less than 6 in any one component.

•English Test for English and Academic Purposes (ETAPP) – Grade C1

•GCE 'O' level English Language/GCSE English Language – Grade C or above

•Cambridge Assessment English - Certificate of Proficiency in English - Grade C / Certificate in Advanced English Grade B

•GCE Examination Boards – Oxford Delegacy of Local Examinations – Grade C / Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate – School Certificate Pass 1-6 / University of London Entrance and School Examinations Council – School Certificate Pass 1-6

Results in examinations other than those listed above may also be accepted as meeting our English language requirements. Contact the International Education Division for advice

Duration

1 year full-time.

Careers or further progression

Specific career opportunities such as Sustainability Officers, Ecological Consultants and Environmental Advisors exist within government agencies, public bodies, NGOs, environmental planning and engineering consultancies with an emphasis on sustainable design, corporate companies on a national and international scale. In addition, opportunities for further research exist. Opportunities exist within the "Green" economy as governments, NGOs and large corporations must work to meet environmental targets set within international obligations. Graduates will acquire translational and multidisciplinary skills in environmental entrepreneurship and sustainability sector enabling them to take on managerial roles within an industrial / corporate setting, or within a regulatory body or consultancy firm.

Previous graduates have found relevant employment in Ireland, UK, USA and elsewhere as University researcher; PhD student; industry based environmental management, environmental analyst, environmental quality control officer; consultancy based climate change researcher; in non-governmental conservation organisations, in governmental organisations such as the National Biodiversity Data Centre.

Further enquiries

Course Director University of Limerick
Dr Bernadette O'Regan
Tel: +353 (0) 61 202552
Email: bernadette.oregan@ul.ie

Course Coordinator NUI Galway
Dr Caitríona Carlin
Tel : +353 (0) 91 493 863

Email: caitriona.carlin@ul.ie
caitriona.carlin@nuigalway.ie

Subjects taught

Semester 1
3 modules taught in NUI Galway:-
•Ecosystem Assessment
•Biodiversity and Conservation
•Environmental Problems and Solutions

Semester 2
4 modules taught in UL:-
•Material and Energy Flows
•Urban Form and Transport
•Urban Household Sustainability
•Sustainable Life-cycle Engineering

Semester 3
Research Project
(based either in UL or NUIG)

Comment

This multi-disciplinary programme brings together theory, policy and practice to provide participants with the skills, technical knowledge and first-hand experience that our experience shows are needed to gain employment as professionals in sustainable resource management. Sustainability challenges and practical solutions are analyzed in relation to urban areas, transport, industry and biodiversity conservation.