Program Overview

Introduction to the Clean Energy Futures Micro-credential

The Clean Energy Futures micro-credential is a 15-week program designed to provide a deeper understanding of the complex challenges faced by societies, organizations, and individuals as we transition away from fossil fuels. This module explores how we currently heat our homes, fuel our transport, and generate electricityand considers the options available for a cleaner, more secure future.

Outline

Through a multidisciplinary lensspanning societal, scientific, engineering, and economic perspectivesthe module investigates both the challenges and opportunities involved in reshaping our energy use. With a national focus, it is particularly suited to those working in environmental policy, national energy strategy, or climate-related fields who wish to broaden their understanding and connect diverse perspectives on building a cleaner future.

Module Goal

The module aims to:

• Apply systems thinking to understand the complexity of energy use in our society, environment, and economy.
• Understand the inherent uncertainties and natural tensions when planning future energy systems arising from different local and global perspectives.
• Improve energy and climate literacy and understanding for core economic and environmental drivers of future change.

Practicalities

• Total Marks: 100
  • Written Examination in UCC: 60 marks
  • Continuous Assessment: 40 marks
• Teaching Mode: Part-Time, with blended delivery.
• Duration: 15 weeks
• NFQ Level: Level 9
• Fees: 1,000
• Closing Date: 22/12/2025
• Start Date: 12th January 2026
• Credits: 5

Why Choose This Module

On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:

1. Understand the key concepts, drivers, opportunities, and risks associated with our current and future energy use.
2. Describe the interrelationships between energy affordability, security, and environmental sustainability.
3. Demonstrate knowledge of energy and climate policy at EU and National (Irish) level.
4. Demonstrate the ability to critically evaluate outcomes, learning, and results from different energy futures.
5. Engage and listen intelligently to various non-technical and technical discussions on future energy choices.

Skills and Careers Information

Students completing this Micro Credential gain 5 credits exemption from the PG Cert in Offshore Renewable Energy.

Requirements

Applicants must have:

• A Second Class Honours Grade 2 (or equivalent) in a primary honours degree (NFQ Level 8) in any discipline of Engineering.
• OR a Second Class Honours Grade 2 (or equivalent) in a primary honours degree (NFQ Level 8) in areas of science that required having completed level 8 mathematical subjects deemed equivalent to those of engineering (e.g., Physics, Mathematical Sciences, some Computing Science degrees), pending assessment by Programme Director.
• OR a pass in any accredited level 8 Engineering degree followed by professional experience deemed of sufficient added value, pending assessment by the Programme Director.

A quota will be allocated to applicants who do not meet these entry requirements. These applicants will be considered under Recognition of Prior Learning and assessed on the following factors:

• Academic achievement
• Prior Work Experience
• Letter of Reference
• Personal Statement

Fees and Costs

The fee for this micro-credential is 1,000.

How to Apply

To apply, select the micro-credential option during the online application process and choose the Clean Energy Futures module.

Similar Courses

Other relevant courses include:

• CE6045: Introduction to Sustainability and the Natural Environment
• CE6046: Introduction to Sustainable Enterprise
• CE6047: Systems Thinking in Environmental Sustainability

These courses offer complementary insights into sustainability, environmental science, and systems thinking, which can enhance the understanding and application of clean energy futures.