BSc (Hons) in Environmental Science SG 441
Course Description:
The study of Environmental Science is critical for the future of the planet and mankind. This course presents exciting opportunities and challenges to contribute to this important endeavour.
Achieving the objectives of the course will involve a combination of field trips, laboratory work, site visits, significant project work, student learning, presentations and lectures and work placement.
The first year comprises core science subjects such as geology, meteorology, biology, chemistry, physics, information technology as well as topical environmental issues. The second and third year mainly involve biological, microbiological, chemical, ecological and physical analyses of water, effluents, soils and air. The sources, treatment and the environmental impacts of pollutants on the environment are also studied.
At the end of the third year, students undergo a period of work placement for a period of 3 – 4 months in the environmental sections of industry, local authorities, and other private and state bodies such as the EPA, the Fisheries boards and the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland.
The fourth year deals mainly with management issues in relation to environmental protection and pollution control, habitat conservation, recycling, energy and sustainability. Subjects include Industrial and Municipal Waste Management, Biological Waste Treatment, Resource Management, Environmental Management Systems and Planning, Ecological Management, Environmental Legislation and Policy, and Energy Management. An important element of the final year is to undertake an individually supervised research project, in an area of interest to the student and of environmental significance.
Key Skills:
The aim of the four-year honours degree course is to provide the student with a range of skills in a variety of analytical laboratory based techniques as well as ecological field work used in environmental monitoring and assessment.
- Assess the quality and characteristics of various components of terrestrial, air and aquatic environments
- Assess the effects of human activity on ecosystems
- Learn techniques for measuring land, air and water quality
- Learn a range of chemical, physical, biological, microbiological, ecological and instrumentation techniques
- Study industrial/municipal and biological waste treatment and management
- Apply Environmental Management Systems/Environmental Impact Assessments
- Examine Legal requirements and policy – environmental compliance – prosecutions – public awareness
- Work placement in a variety of industries, environmental consultancies, local authorities and EPA for example
- Learn how to present your data and findings in a variety of presentation formats, oral and written.
Career Opportunities:
The courses provide the knowledge and skills to have a rewarding career in the area of environmental science.
Typically graduates from the course find employment as environmental officers in local authorities, industry, environmental consultancy companies or in government bodies, such as the EPA, Fishery Boards etc. As an Environmental Scientist, you may be engaged in the implementation of European Community and Irish legislation, environmental protection and ecological conservation, the management of pollution control facilities, and soil, water and air testing. Students may go on to study at post graduate level to achieve Masters and Ph.D qualifications.
2009 Points:
285
Award:
Honours Degree
Level:
8
Duration:
4 years
Course places:
24
For further information, contact:
Dr. Michael Broaders
T: 071 9155254
E: Broaders.michael@itsligo.ie
Dr. Noel Connaughton
T: 071 9155356
