Program Overview

Overview of the Botany Program

The Botany program at Trinity College Dublin is a unique and comprehensive course that integrates small-group teaching, field-based activities, and laboratory work. The program focuses on the study of the evolution and conservation of all forms of plant life, and their response to global climate change.

Program Details

• The program is a 4-year full-time course that leads to a Moderatorship B.A. Honours Bachelor Degree (NFQ Level 8).
• The CAO points required for admission to the program are 545 (2024), and the CAO code is TR060.

Admission Requirements

Leaving Certificate:

• H6 or O4 Mathematics
• H4 in two of Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Physics/Chemistry, Geology, Geography, Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Agricultural Science, Computer Science.
• Certain subject combinations are not permitted: Physics/Chemistry with Physics or Chemistry, and Agricultural Science with Biology.

GCSE:

• Grade B/6 Mathematics

Advanced GCE (A Level):

• Grade C in two of Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Physics/Chemistry, Geology, Geography, Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Agricultural Science, Computer Science.

International Baccalaureate:

• SL Grade 5 in Mathematics
• HL Grade 5 in two of Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Physics/Chemistry, Geology, Geography, Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Agricultural Science, Computer Science.

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 undergraduate fees, please refer to the relevant section of the university's website.

Program Structure and Content

The program includes courses such as:

• Plant Biodiversity and Conservation
• Ecology
• Plant Physiology and Global Climate Change
• Mycology
• Long-Term Environmental Change
• Plant Molecular Biology
• Pollination Biology
• Soil Science The laboratories and greenhouses on Trinity campus, the Trinity Botanic Garden, and the internationally recognised Herbarium support teaching. All students are given the opportunity to participate in field courses that take place in Ireland, the Canary Islands (Gran Canaria).

Career Opportunities

After graduation, students can move directly to a career related to botany, such as nature conservation, environmental consultancy, agricultural research, and teaching at second level. Alternatively, students may decide to pursue a higher degree. The skills acquired in the third and fourth years are also widely applicable in business and industry.

Research Areas

The program has a strong research focus, with all staff being research active and having high-profile research interests in Ireland and the tropics. Students have the opportunity to participate in research internships in Trinity or other universities during the summer vacation, in particular international research programs such as Operation Wallacea. There is also the possibility for students to participate in international study exchange programs during their third year, such as Erasmus.