Biological and Environmental Studies

Higher Certificate in Science

Biological and Environmental students using equipment in class
Biological and Environmental students using equipment in class
Type of Programme
Full-time
Number of Places
16
Duration
2 Years
Course Code
MT 680
Entry Requirements
282 Points in 2023 and meet minimum entry requirements as listed below.
Application Deadline
See CAO for details
Location(s)
MTU Kerry South Campus, Kerry
Course NFQ Level
Level 6

Dr Gerard Corkery

T: +353 66 714 5610

Email: (email)

Overview

This 2-year course provides a basis in the biological sciences (biology and chemistry) along with introductory ecology, environmental and earth science. It provides a foundation for continuation to level 7 and 8 qualifications in this area, (especially MT 880 Wildlife Biology) and can be used to enter the workforce directly.

The course involves a mix of theory, laboratory practice and field activity. Each week includes a full day of field work, at different locations in wildlife-rich Co. Kerry and beyond. In first year, a foundation in biology, chemistry and numeracy is provided, and this is built on in second year with modules in botany, ecology, zoology and microbiology. Practical modules in outdoor skills and Geographical Information Systems are also taken. The course provides insight into the kingdoms of life, giving a strong base on which to build deeper, more focused wildlife study.

This programme is unique to the MTU Kerry Campus and attracts students from across Ireland and beyond. Kerry’s stunning and diverse natural landscape is an ideal location for the programme. The course provides a highly marketable blend of biological and environmental studies skills, both in field and laboratory. Field sites include a variety of wildlife habitats and special areas of conservation, as well as environmental management facilities like water treatment, waste water treatment facilities, and wind farms.

What will I study?

First year at a glance

  • Biology: an overview of the kingdom of life and the processes that makes living things work
  • Chemistry: a thorough introduction to the elements, molecules and reactions that affect life, both within organisms and in the environment
  • Scientific Communication and Computer Applications: develops skills for interpersonal and scientific communication
  • Irish Wildlife: overview of the fauna of Ireland with reference to life histories, habitat and conservation status
  • Outdoor Skills: foundation levels of personal skills and competencies in a range of outdoor environments
  • Physics Concepts: an introduction to physics as a basis for understanding mechanics and energy in the living world
  • Introduction to Environmental Science: global environmental challenges, environmental degradation and effects on human health
  • Field Biology and Earth Science: practical field biology and introductory geology and physical geography
  • Mathematics and Statistics for Science: basic mathematical methods and introductory statistics to describe and analyse data

Modules

What is a Module?

A module is a standalone unit of learning and assessment and is completed within one semester. A full-time student will normally study six modules in each semester; part-time and ACCS (Accumulation of Credits and Certification of Subjects) students will have flexibility as to the number of modules taken.

The button below provides a link to all of the University's approved modules for this programme.

View Modules

Entry Requirements

Entry 2024

For admission to a programme, standard applicants must

  • score the necessary CAO points and
  • meet the minimum entry requirements

Leaving Certificate in five subjects i.e. O6/H7 in five other subjects. The five subjects must include Mathematics and either English or Irish grade O6/H7.

 

For Non-EU International Entry Requirements please visit https://www.mtu.ie/international/non-eu/.

Career options

Employment Opportunities

In addition to the generic transferable skills obtained, graduates gain training suitable for employment with environmental non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), education/eco-tourism providers, wildlife rescue, and as research assistants and support staff on conservation projects.

Progression

Further Studies

Suitably qualified Level 6 graduates are eligible to progress to year 3 of the Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Wildlife Biology.

Follow Us