Course Description
The Postgraduate Diploma in Bioeconomy with Business is a flexible, one-year part-time, blended programme designed to enable upskilling of those in the workplace and those seeking to engage in further study. The bioeconomy is one of the EU’s largest and most important sectors encompassing agriculture, forestry, fisheries, food, bio-energy and bio-based products with an annual turnover of circa €2 trillion, employing around 18 million people, creating €621 billion benefits and 4.2% of the EU’s GDP. The bio-based industries have the potential to generate 1 million innovative jobs across the EU by 2030.
This level 9 programme is positioned at the interface of primary production, sustainable processing, biotechnology, new product development, supply chain dynamics, innovation, business and policy. Co-developed by an interdisciplinary team from MTU, UCD and Teagasc, students will gain a deep and critical understanding of the theories, concepts and frameworks of the bioeconomy from technological, environmental, social and business perspectives. A suite of innovative pedagogies (peer-to-peer learning, place-based learning, action learning, professional and work-based learning, site visits and case studies) will be applied across the curriculum. This approach will equip graduates with the skills and competencies to exchange and apply learnings (bioeconomy in practice) within the workplace, be that public or private sectors, SMEs or large organisations.
Modules
- Bioeconomy Model for the Transition to a Low Carbon Economy
- Bioeconomy Feedstocks
- Life Cycle Assessment
- Conventional Valorisation Technologies
- Biorefinery Processes and Technologies
- Bio based Value Chains, Products, Processes and Markets
- Green Technologies Project
- Policy and Social Aspects of the Bioeconomy
- Knowledge, Innovation and Industry
- Work-based Learning-Bioeconomy Improvement Opportunity
Testimonials
Entry Requirements
Applicants must hold a minimum NFQ level 8 degree (minimum level 2nd class honours) in science, agricultural science, business management, engineering or other relevant area. Ideally applicants will possess relevant experience in one of the following areas: manufacturing; research and development; laboratory; quality; supply chain; procurement; engineering policy; funding or sales and marketing in one or more of the following sectors: agricultural; food & beverage; life science; chemical; packaging; construction and policy. The University’s policy in relation to recognition of prior learning (RPL) also applies.
Duration
This programme will be delivered in a blended format part-time from January 2023 to December 2023. Online and MTU Kerry South Campus and UCD Campus for scheduled workshops.
Cost
Fees do not apply to applicants who meet the Springboard+ initiative funding criteria. For employed applicants the HEA will pay 90% of the programme fee, the remaining 10% - €540 will be payable before registration. For applicants who do not meet the Springboard+ eligibility criteria the fee is €5,400.
Progression Opportunities
On successful completion of the programme students will have gained 60 credits at NFQ level 9 and may have the option to progress to the MSc in Bioeconomy with Business.
Lifelong Learning Department
Email:
email
Phone: 066 7191701