(MSc) Sustainable Resource Management: Policy and Practice), inter-institutional programme
College of Science
Disciplines: Environmental Science, Chemical & Environmental, Electronic & Computer Engineering
Course overview
This novel course is a multidisciplinary approach to environmental sustainability devised by NUIG and UL to respond to the continuing 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 sustainably. 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.
Programme Objectives:
a. To integrate an international perspective to reflect new research findings and current practice in sustainable use of resources that can be applied within Ireland and elsewhere.
b. To provide research-led learning opportunities that will develop skills in identifying and evaluating solutions for real world problems.
c. To provide Irish expertise to meet legal obligations.
Key facts
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.
Appropriate disciplines include Environmental Sciences/Engineering or Geography/Biological Sciences/Ecology and Earth Sciences. 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.
Duration:
1 year, full-time
Next start date: September 2015
ECTS weighting: 90
Average intake: 15
Course outline
This programme brings together theory, policy and practice to provide participants with the skills, knowledge and experience that are needed to pursue successful careers in managing environmental resources sustainably. This new course combines scene setting lectures by experts (including guest seminars), site visits and experiential learning to encourage students to adopt an informed, creative, innovatory and entrepreneurial approach to problem solving. As the course is structured around research in both institutions that is strongly linked to decision makers in industry and government organisations, it will develop graduates with necessary skills in identifying and evaluating solutions for real world problems.
Semesters 1 and 2 are devoted to formal scientific and policy coursework consisting primarily of lectures, problem-based learning, site visits and tutorials and private study. Students are expected to carry out group projects and to prepare written reports, oral and other presentations for continous assessment.
Semester 1 comprises 3 modules taught in NUI Galway (30 ECTS):
1. Ecosystem Assessment
2. Biodiversity and Conservation
3. Environmental Problems and Solutions
Semester 2 comprises 4 modules taught in UL (30 ECTS):
4. Material and Energy Flows
5. Urban Form and Transport
6. Urban Household Sustainability
7. Sustainable Lifecycle Engineering
Students undertake a research project at either institution during Semester 3 (30 ECTS).
Applications and selections
Who teaches this course?
NUIG: Dr Caitriona Carlin, Dr Martin Feely, Dr Mike Gormally, Dr Ronan Hennessy, Tiernan Henry, MSc; Dr Gesche Kindermann, Elaine O’Riordan, MSc, Dr Micheline Sheehy Skeffington, Dr Caroline Sullivan
UL: Professor Richard Moles, Dr Bernadette O’Regan, Dr Colin Fitzpatrick
Requirements and assessment
Find out more
Dr. Caitriona Carlin,
Rm 206,
Applied Ecology Unit,
Centre for Environmental Science,
School of Natural Sciences,
NUI Galway.
T +353 91 493 863
E caitriona.carlin
PAC code
Not applicable
Fees for this course
Industry testimonial
Brian Keville
Company Director / Senior Environmental Consultant, McCarthy Keville O’Sullivan Ltd., Galway.
"This MSc gives students a detailed insight into the natural and built environment and the all-important interactions between both, across a wide variety of important subject areas that are increasingly relevant in commercial, conservation, industrial and public policy fields."
Download taught and research
Industry testimonial
Dick Whelan
Managing Director, Almir Business Ltd, Limerick.
"Graduates of this MSc will be able to apply accumula-ted knowledge to assist SMEs and local authorities implement a strategic framework for sustainable resource management and to move forward in all aspects of environmental sustainability."