Wildlife Biology

Overview

Wildlife Biology is the study of the natural environment, the living things in it, and their interactions. This MTU programme, unique in Ireland, prepares you for a variety of roles (lab, field and desk-based) in research, biodiversity, conservation and land use management. Based in the stunning and wildlife rich county of Kerry, the course attracts students from across Ireland, Europe and beyond.

The first two years are common with MT 680 Higher Certificate in Biological and Environmental Studies. Zoology, Botany, Ecology and Microbiology (in year 2) offer a wide and deep understanding of living things. Outdoor education modules provide skills to work and navigate safely in wild and remote environments, and include a Certificate in Remote Emergency Care. A module on Geographical Information Systems provides experience in the new industry standard for management of spatial data.

Habitat Studies, Species Identification and a Wildlife Expedition in year 3 provide practical and applied skills. Research modules (including group Ecology project and individual final year thesis) facilitate development of skills in desk and field data collation, analysis and presentation. Modules in Environmental Protection, Biodiversity, Conservation and Habitat Conservation Management prepare for a career supporting the sustainable transition of society and economy to battle the biodiversity and climate crises.

With weekly fieldtrips, in a variety of aquatic, upland and remote habitats in Co. Kerry and beyond, you need to be reasonably fit, and prepared for all weathers and rough terrain.

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

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 six subjects i.e. H5 in two subjects and O6/H7 in four other subjects. The six subjects must include Mathematics and either English or Irish grade O6/H7.

NOTE: This course involves strenuous physical activities in outdoor settings. You will need medical clearance to register on this programme.

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

Career options

Employment Opportunities

Our graduates have taken employment with a range of employers such as the Forest Service, the National Parks and Wildlife Service, Fota Wildlife Park and non-governmental organisations (NGOs). Others are employed with Inland Fisheries Ireland, the Marine Institute and as part of agri-environment schemes and other large-scale conservation projects. Many go on to complete master degrees and/ or PhDs. Some graduates have undertaken conservation work internationally (UK, Canada, Central America).

Progression

Further Studies

Suitably qualified Level 8 honours graduates are eligible to progress to taught master programmes or to research at either master or PhD level.