Freshwater Quality Monitoring and Assessment (Online) PG Dip

Program Overview

This online Postgraduate Diploma in Freshwater Quality Monitoring & Assessment is tailored for professionals in the water sector seeking specialized knowledge in freshwater monitoring. It covers monitoring program design, quality assurance, data handling, and specialized modules in surface and groundwater monitoring, using both conventional and biological methods. The program is designed to enhance the career prospects of professionals in the water management field, aligning with the United Nations' sustainable water resource goals.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This online Postgraduate Diploma in Freshwater Quality Monitoring & Assessment is designed for existing or future water professionals. It provides the knowledge needed to design and implement freshwater quality monitoring programs and assess water quality. The program is offered part-time online, allowing students to study at their own pace. It is particularly beneficial for those working in the water sector, including government agencies, and staff in higher education institutions seeking a specialized postgraduate qualification in surface and groundwater monitoring, quality assurance and control, and data analysis and presentation.

Outline:

• EV6002 Quality Assurance in Water Quality Monitoring Programmes: This module focuses on the principles and practices of quality assurance in water quality monitoring programs, including the development of quality assurance plans, the implementation of quality control measures, and the assessment of data quality.

Year 2: Specialised Modules (30 credits):

• Two compulsory modules:
• EV6005 Monitoring and Assessment of Surface Waters:
This module focuses on the monitoring and assessment of surface water quality, including the identification of sources of pollution, the assessment of water quality trends, and the development of water quality management plans.
• EV6007 Monitoring and Assessment of Groundwater: This module covers the monitoring and assessment of groundwater quality, including the identification of sources of contamination, the assessment of groundwater quality trends, and the development of groundwater management plans.
• Any two of the following:
• EV6004 Water Quality Monitoring in the Field (field course abroad or in Ireland):
This module provides students with practical experience in freshwater quality monitoring methods. It involves a one-week, full-time field course, either abroad or in Ireland.
• EV6008 Water Quality Monitoring using Biological and Ecological Methods: This module covers the use of biological and ecological methods in water quality monitoring, including the assessment of biological communities, the use of bioindicators, and the development of ecological integrity assessments.

Teaching:

• Teaching Mode: The program is delivered online.
• Teaching Methods: The program utilizes online teaching methods, including lectures, tutorials, and online discussions.
• Faculty: The program is taught by experienced faculty members with expertise in freshwater quality monitoring and assessment.
• Unique Approaches: The program incorporates a field module (EV6004) that provides students with practical experience in freshwater quality monitoring methods.

Careers:

The Postgraduate Diploma is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to work in the area of water quality management in public or private sectors. Potential career paths include:

• Water and environment ministries
• Regulatory agencies
• Agriculture and industry
• Water quality management consulting firms
• Research institutions

Other:

• The program is designed to meet the needs for more sustainable management of freshwater resources in less developed countries.
• The program is aligned with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) GEMS/Water Capacity Development Centre (CDC) and supports the UN Agenda 2030 Sustainable Development Goal for water (SDG 6).
• The program is particularly relevant for the career advancement of employees already working in the water quality sector.