Masters in Environmental Science in Ireland | 15 Best Courses

Choosing a Masters in Environmental Science in Ireland is a smart move if you’re passionate about the environment and want to make a real impact. 

Courses in Ireland educate you beyond environmental science. It equips you with the knowledge and skills to address critical issues like climate change, pollution, conservation, and sustainability policies. Plus, it opens doors to a wide range of fulfilling careers in government, nonprofits, research, and more. 

Continue reading this blog to learn more about the programs and best universities in Ireland for environmental science studies.

Where Can I Study Environmental Science in Ireland?

These are the 8 universities to pursue a Masters in Environmental Science in Ireland

1. Trinity College Dublin
2. University College Dublin
3. University of Galway
4. University College Cork
5. University of Limerick
6. Technological University of Dublin
7. Maynooth University
8. Technological University of the Shannon

15 Courses for Masters in Environmental Science in Ireland

1. MSc Energy Management

The market is in need of effective Environmental Managers with in-depth knowledge of resource management. If you find yourself the best fit for this gap, then this postgraduate course is for you. 

The MSc in Energy Management will improve your knowledge of European energy and environmental laws, standards, technologies, management, economics, and finance. The curriculum in Ireland emphasizes the business and managerial aspects of ecological resources.

2. MEngSc Sustainable Energy 

This masters is the best course for people who want to solve the biggest climatic challenges of today. 

The MEngSc in Sustainable Energy is the first of its kind Environmental masters in Ireland. It trains students as experts in reducing human impact on the climate. Developing low-carbon energy is the key factor in raising the global population’s standard of living, and this is what you will be taught.  

Furthermore, graduates will learn to source, design, convert, transmit, and supply energy for electricity, mobility, and heating and cooling now and in the future.

3. MSc Sustainable Energy System Management

TUS offers a master’s degree in Sustainable Energy System Management in partnership with universities in Holland, Spain, and Belgium and prepares graduates for one of the world’s fastest-growing industries. These partnerships and collaborations with the Association of European Research Centres (EUREC) give students many opportunities to travel, work, and network with professionals and potential employers in this field.

So, what is the expertise you gain with this unique course? You will study important social and global issues and how to solve them for people, communities, societies, and the planet.

4. MSc Applied Environmental Geoscience

The MSc in Applied Environmental Geoscience is designed to provide you with both theoretical and practical environmental geoscience training. Experts in this area are in demand all over the world, and the curriculum is set up to fill this skill gap.

Thus, now is the time to enroll in this environmental science course for exciting scientific, engineering, environmental consulting, natural resources, mining, and regulatory opportunities. 

5. MSc Environmental Sciences

The MSc in Environmental Sciences at Trinity College Dublin is intended for administrative and scientific workers and new graduates with a background in biological or earth science. 

The course is the first of its kind in Ireland, has an established pedigree and attracts students from worldwide. It provides students with a broad range of environmental science knowledge and skills. The curriculum includes a five-month research project and several taught modules on current environmental issues. 

The knowledge and skills you gain from this course can open doors for environmental science careers worldwide.

6. MSc Applied Environmental Science

The MSc Applied Environmental Science program at UCD focuses on the importance of creating environmental policies, assessing changes in environmental quality, and coming up with strategies for managing and conserving the environment. 

In this program, you’ll collaborate with a diverse group of experts who focus on various aspects of Environmental Science, including marine, freshwater, and land systems. It’s worth noting that this is the only Applied Environmental Science course in Ireland that includes significant input from civil engineering, especially related to water quality, hydrology, and waste treatment processes.

7. MSc Environmental Technology

There is a growing need for graduates with the knowledge and experience to create technological solutions for air, water, and soil protection. These individuals have numerous opportunities in industries like agri-food, bioresources, consulting, and governing bodies. If this sounds interesting, consider UCD’s environmental master’s program in Ireland. 

This course covers environmental engineering, risk assessment, air pollution management, waste management, product life cycles, and buildings and the environment. You will also become experts in energy systems and building a sustainable environment.

The special aspect of this program is that it is run by a research-intensive school, which consists of a fellow from the European Research Council and six Marie Curie Fellowships. In addition, you will also receive site visits and internships as needed. 

8. MSc Environmental Policy

Many environmental issues are global. A master’s program can provide a global perspective, helping you understand and address environmental challenges on an international scale.

The MSc Environmental Policy program aims to prepare graduates to tackle important environmental problems and work in environmental jobs. They will have the professional knowledge, technical skills, and tool expertise to make the world more sustainable and better able to handle challenges.

The program uses a mix of teaching methods, including regular lectures and interactive studio-based learning. The main place where you’ll learn for this course is in the existing buildings at UCD Richview, especially in the Planning and Environmental Policy Buildings.

9. MSc(Agr) Environmental Resource Management

This program is special because it has helped many graduates make big career changes. For example, some went from studying economics to pursuing a Ph.D. in ecology, while others shifted from IT engineering to working in agri-environmental management and pursuing a Ph.D. Hence, it is best for people who want a shift into the advanced environmental stream. 

MSc (Agr) Environmental Resource Management at UCD examines the importance of global environmental issues in agriculture and other land use systems. The modules emphasize natural science, engineering, and social science to create sustainable solutions to environmental problems.  

This program draws on the faculty and diversity of the School of Agriculture and Food Science, ranked in the top 100 of agriculture and forestry worldwide.

10. MSc Environmental Leadership

Environmental leaders have a comprehensive understanding of the interdependence of ecological, social, and energy systems. They understand environmental issues’ complexity and avoid simple solutions.

The MSc in Environmental Leadership at the University of Galway offers advanced knowledge and skills in problem-solving, management, and communication. 

The program is offered in collaboration with the Ryan Institute and the School of Geography and Archaeology by the College of Science and Engineering. The modules cover key areas relevant to the environment, marine, and energy sectors. 

11. MSc Environmental Health and Safety

The Health and Safety & Ergonomics program is in high demand in Ireland, according to the Irish Human Factors and Ergonomics Society. Specifically, there’s a growing need for experts in health, ergonomics, and human factors, especially at the master’s level.

Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) studies are all about keeping people and the environment safe in various places, like workplaces, communities, and nature. 

The MSc in Environmental Health and Safety at TUDublin is recognized and accredited by the Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH). Also, the Human Factors stream of this program lets you become a full member of the Irish Human Factors Ergonomics Society.

12. MSc Environmental Psychology

Understanding environmental psychology helps us create better, healthier spaces where people live and work. It guides us in encouraging eco-friendly behaviors like recycling and conserving energy. Plus, it supports efforts to protect the environment by uncovering what motivates people to care about nature.

The MSc Environmental Psychology at Maynooth University teaches how our actions and surroundings affect us. They do this by bringing together experts from different areas like psychology (including cognitive, health, clinical, and research), geography, biology, digital marketing, and environmental science. It’s a diverse program that covers many aspects of how people and the environment interact.

13. MSc in Climate Change: Policy, Media and Society

Understanding climate change in your environmental studies teaches strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, adapt to climate impacts, and create effective environmental policies.

Right now, we need to have all the right policies and systems to deal with climate change. So, DCU has made the MSc Climate Change: Policy, Media and Society program to study how politics, rules, laws, education, and the media all work together to create the big response we need to tackle climate change. It’s about understanding how our society can better handle this important issue.

14. MSc Biodiversity and Conservation

Biodiversity and Conservation master’s is designed to give students a strong understanding of the science behind biological diversity and how to protect it. It’s taught in different sections, including theory, practical skills, and research projects.

You’ll learn through various methods like lectures, hands-on activities, field trips, reading, and online resources. The goal of this course is to help you become an independent thinker and excel academically. By the end, you will be trained for careers in biodiversity conservation, whether in NGOs, government departments, or environmental consulting.

15. MSc Environmental Sustainability

An MSc in Environmental Sustainability is a deep dive into tough environmental issues and how to solve them for a better world. However, the classes you take may vary at different universities.

The MSc Environmental Sustainability at University College Dublin focuses on corporate and political issues. It also includes components on subjects like chemistry and ecology. Now, the MSc Sustainable Environments at the University of Galway is more about looking at the environmental, health, and sustainability sides in both urban and rural settings.

Cost of Studying Masters in Environmental Science in Ireland

Requirements for Studying Masters in Environmental Science in Ireland

Undergraduate score:

A bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 65% in a relevant field such as Science, Geography, Engineering, Architecture, or any related subject. 

English language score:

A minimum of 6.5 IELTS or equivalent. You can take the TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo, or Cambridge tests as an alternative to IETLS. 

Work experience:

Universities in Ireland do not require any work experience for students pursuing an Environmental master’s degree. 

Is MSc Environmental Science Worthwhile?

Environmental studies is a unique field that looks at how people and the environment connect. Here’s why it’s special:

Many Subjects: It combines lots of different subjects, like ecology, biology, chemistry, geology, sociology, and economics, to understand environmental problems.

Global-View: Environmental studies help us see big environmental issues all around the world, like climate change, pollution, and using up nature’s resources.

Smart Thinking: It makes us better at thinking by showing how social, ecological, economic, cultural, and political stuff all link together.

Problem Solvers: Environmental studies teaches us how to solve environmental problems and make things better.

Cool Jobs: If you study this, you can do all sorts of jobs, like being an environmental scientist, conservation biologist, environmental lawyer, or teaching others about the environment.

Why Study a Masters in Environmental Science in Ireland?

If you’re thinking about doing a Master’s degree in Environmental Science in Ireland, here are some things to consider:  

Wide Range of Skills: This program blends knowledge from different areas like Environmental Safety, Psychology, Engineering, and Law to give you a versatile skill set. It can open doors in various industries like manufacturing, technology, health, safety, and more.  

In-Depth Knowledge: Studying this Master’s degree helps you deeply understand the chemical, physical, and biological aspects of the environment. This knowledge can be valuable for tackling environmental issues.  

Career Choices: Going for a Master’s in Environmental Science in Ireland can lead to diverse career options, like becoming an environmental scientist, conservation biologist, environmental lawyer, or educator.  

High-quality Education: Ireland’s education system is top-notch and emphasizes skill development and entrepreneurial abilities. Universities in Ireland encourage innovation and creativity.

Cost-effective: Other advantages of studying in Ireland include the relatively low tuition fee, living costs, and post-study visa. In 2023, 11% of students in Irish universities are from other countries, with 6000 (4%) from India. 

Career Prospects

A career in environmental science in Ireland can be incredibly rewarding. You get to work on pressing global issues like climate change and conservation. It often involves a mix of fieldwork and office work, so it’s varied. Plus, knowing you’re making a positive impact on the planet is a big motivator.

Popular Job Roles for Environmental Science Graduates

What are the Top Companies Hiring Environmental Scientists in Ireland?

Here are some of the top companies hiring Environmental Scientists in Ireland:

• Eurofins Ireland Clinical Diagnostics
• GerTEK Project Management and Technical Services
• ALS Life Sciences
• RPS Group
• Arup
• Jacobs
• AECOM
• Veolia

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list, and there are also other companies in Ireland seeking Environmental Scientists.

Conclusion

So, if you want to be part of the solution and help create a greener, more sustainable world, an environmental science master’s in Ireland is a great choice.

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