Environment, Sustainability and Climate Diploma

Program Overview

This part-time Diploma in Environment, Sustainability, and Climate from UCC Adult Continuing Education equips students with the knowledge and skills to address contemporary environmental and social challenges. Delivered through a blended online approach, the two-year program emphasizes the interconnectedness of environmental, social, and economic factors, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Graduates are prepared for careers in environmental protection, sustainability, and related fields across various sectors.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This Diploma in Environment, Sustainability and Climate is an innovative program offered by UCC Adult Continuing Education (ACE). It is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to address the pressing environmental and social issues of our time. The program emphasizes the interconnectedness of environmental, social, and economic factors, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The program aims to:

• Introduce students to key theories and skills related to environmental and sustainable issues within their own organizations.
• Provide a comprehensive understanding of environmental issues such as climate change, sustainable development, resource management, and environmental protection.
• Develop an environmentally aware and knowledgeable workforce capable of contributing to sustainable solutions.

Outline:

The Diploma in Environment, Sustainability and Climate is a two-year, part-time program delivered through a blended online approach.

Year 1 Modules:

• AD1084 Introduction to Earth Science (10 credits): This module provides a foundational understanding of Earth's systems, including geology, geomorphology, and climate.
• AD1085 Perspectives on Climate Change and Sustainable Development (10 credits): This module explores the science of climate change, its impacts, and the principles of sustainable development.
• AD1086 Environmental Monitoring, Assessment and Social Impact (10 Credits): This module focuses on methods for monitoring and assessing environmental conditions and their social impacts.

Year 2 Modules:

• AD2031 Ecology and Applied Geographical Information Systems (GIS) (10 credits): This module introduces ecological principles and the application of GIS for environmental analysis.
• AD2032 Environmental Protection and Eco-Social Policy (10 credits): This module examines environmental protection policies, regulations, and their social implications.
• AD2033 Practical Environmental Management (10 credits): This module provides practical skills in environmental management, including waste management, pollution control, and conservation.

Assessment:

The program utilizes continuous assessment, evaluating students through a combination of:

• Essays
• Journal reviews
• Case studies
• Oral presentations
• Poster presentations
• Field reports
• Practicals

Teaching:

• Teaching Mode: Blended online approach with pre-recorded lectures and live interactive discussion classes.
• Faculty: Lecturers are drawn from a diverse range of disciplines, including academics, regulators, environmental scientists, economists, social scientists, energy sector professionals, planners, and policy makers.
• Unique Approaches: The program incorporates field trips, workshops, and interactive discussions to enhance learning.

Careers:

Graduates of this program are well-prepared for careers in:

• Local Authorities
• Environmental, Health, and Safety positions
• Pharma-chem sector
• "Green teams" and sustainability teams in various sectors

Other:

• The program is highly regarded and has a long history at UCC.
• A session is held each May to provide information on further education and job opportunities in the environmental field.
• The program is interdisciplinary, drawing on both science and social studies.
• The UN Sustainable Development Goals are integrated throughout the curriculum.

€1,500 per academic year paid in two instalments for Diploma students. A limited number of places for year 1 of this course only are available under the Springboard+ initiative which provides fee subsidies of 90-100% for eligible applicants. Successful candidates will graduate with a Certificate in Environment, Sustainability and Climate.