Program Overview

Environmental Sciences (M.Sc. / P.Grad.Dip.)

The degree in Environmental Sciences, the first of its kind in Ireland, has an established pedigree, attracting students with diverse academic backgrounds from Ireland and abroad. It comprises a series of taught modules encompassing a variety of current environmental themes, followed by a five-month research project. There is also the possibility to opt for a Postgraduate Diploma in Environmental Sciences, consisting of the taught modules only.

Overview

The aims of this course are to promote an understanding of environmental science, and the capability to apply that knowledge to current environmental issues and sound environmental management; to develop the necessary intellectual skills and practical expertise to design and execute independent research; and to cultivate skilled communicators able to organise ideas and disseminate them through written and oral presentations.

Is This Course For Me?

This full-time, intensive course is intended for administrative and scientific workers and new graduates with an appropriate environmental science related background, although applications from graduates with different backgrounds are also welcomed. Our students have an excellent success rate in finding career paths in the field of environmental science following our program. We have had students from many different backgrounds that have successfully completed this programme: any areas of Earth and environmental sciences, chemistry, biology, agricultural sciences, among others.

Career Opportunities

Our graduates find jobs in academia and industry. Previous graduates of this course have been employed by a range of agencies involved in environmental protection, as environmental consultants and in local government. Many graduates have gone on to do further research in a range of environmentally related disciplines. Graduates from the course have pursued their interests in environmental sciences throughout the world. Some examples of jobs that our M.Sc. students have embarked after finishing this programme are environmental field scientist, research assistant (project scientists), environmental consultant, instrument and GIS technician, analyst for water quality (or other environmental data analyst). Employers include Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland, Gas Networks Ireland, Kerry Group, Inland Fisheries Ireland, Veolia, CSO, Headcount Engineering, Jacobs Engineering, Teagasc, Promar International UK, Pfizer, RSK Ireland, and Calx.

Course Structure

The Environmental Sciences programme is delivered full-time over one year and carries 90 ECTS (60 ECTS of teaching component, plus 30 ECTS in a written dissertation). The taught component of this course comprises formal lectures, seminars, laboratory and desk-based practical work, fieldwork and independent study.

Course Content

Students take the following modules between early September-May:

• Introduction to Environmental Sciences
• Desk Study
• Hydrology and Groundwater Quality
• Environmental Monitoring
• Data Handling and Analysis
• Earth System Science
• Environmental Policy
• Resource Development: Managing Impacts on the Environment
• Practical Environmental Skills
• Project Planning
• Environmental Entrepreneurship

From early June to September, students embark on their research project.

Course Details

• Awards: NFQ Level 9
• Number of Places: 30 Places
• Next Intake: September 2025
• Course Director: Dr. Juan Diego Rodriguez-Blanco
• Closing Date: 31st July 2025

Admission Requirements

Applicants must provide:

• Their Bachelor's degree
• Evidence of English language competency, for applicants whose first language is not English or who have not been educated through the English language
• Two academic references, or reference letters from industry for candidates who left academia several years ago

English Language Requirements

All applicants to Trinity are required to provide official evidence of proficiency in the English language. Applicants to this course are required to meet Band B (Standard Entry) English language requirements.

Course Fees

For a full list of postgraduate fees, please refer to the relevant section of the university's website.

Register Your Interest

Register your interest in studying at Ireland’s leading university, Trinity College Dublin, the University of Dublin.

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