Program Overview

University College Cork Program Details

Introduction to Freshwater Quality Monitoring with Biota and Particulate Matter

The Freshwater Quality Monitoring with Biota and Particulate Matter course is a 12-week part-time program offered by University College Cork. This course focuses on the assessment of water quality using biological and ecological methods, as well as the analysis of particulate matter in rivers and lakes.

Course Outline

• Identify the influences of human activities on biological communities in surface waters
• Propose suitable indicator organisms in rivers and lakes
• Distinguish between biological communities and individual species as approaches for water quality monitoring
• Identify the influences of human activities on composition and behavior of particulate matter in rivers and lakes
• Select examples of use of particulate matter to monitor contamination in rivers and lakes

Practicalities

The course consists of:

• 36 hours of directed study (online self-directed learning)
• 12 hours of directed study (online moderated activities)
• 12 x 1 hour of directed study (reading)

Total marks for the course are 100, with continuous assessment consisting of two multiple-choice tests, each worth 50 marks.

Requirements

To be eligible for this course, applicants should have:

• A BSc in Environmental Science or a similar subject
• A relevant professional qualification
• A portfolio of work and experience in the area of water quality monitoring

Candidates without a BSc will be judged on a case-by-case basis. For candidates whose primary language is not English, an IELTS score of 6.5 (or TOEFL equivalent) with no less than 6.0 in each individual category is required.

Fees and Costs

The fee for this module is 400 for EU applicants and 800 for non-EU applicants. Applicants from low-income countries that are part of the GEMS/Water program may be eligible for fee concessions.

Similar Courses

Other courses offered by the UNEP/GEMS Water Capacity Development Centre include:

• Freshwater Monitoring Programme Design (EV6012)
• Quality Assurance for Freshwater Quality Monitoring (EV6013)
• Data Handling, Assessment & Presentation for Freshwater Quality Monitoring (EV6014)
• Water Quality Monitoring & Assessment in Rivers, Lakes & Reservoirs (EV6015)
• Water Quality Monitoring & Assessment of Groundwater (EV6016)

These courses provide a comprehensive range of training opportunities for professionals working in the field of water quality monitoring.