BSc. in Environmental Science and Technology

What is Environmental Science and Technology?

Climate change, species extinction, pollution, managing waste and recycling are huge challenges that we face and are now at the forefront of public discourse and debate. 

These are complex phenomena that we must understand in order to address the problems which stem from such. Environmental scientists are needed to provide technical solutions and advanced innovations through the application of knowledge and skills spanning the disciplines of chemistry, physics and biology.

This degree explores the environment, the technologies used for its analysis, and how it is impacted by our activities from a scientific perspective. Students will consider and probe the problems we face and investigate the means for reducing our negative impact on the planet. 

Environmental Science and Technology's Influence on Industry

Human activities have a significant impact on the environment; spanning that imparted by an individual right up to the footprint imparted at an industrial level. These activities produce a variety of pollutants which when released into the environment can contaminate water, soil, and the air, ultimately destabilising ecosystems and their respective inhabitants. It has never been more important to address these concerns, and owing to climate change policies agreed upon by world leaders the planet is relying on changes such as the expansion of renewable energy sources, and evolving it to make it commercially attractive and environmentally beneficial as a means of saving the planet. These sectors must be staffed by trained environmental scientists who not only understand the key biological, chemistry, and physics principles unpinning environmental change, but are also versed in the methodologies and practical skills associated with assessing such.

At Dublin City University, the School of Biotechnology hosts a number of academic staff who are specialised in various aspects in the study of environmental science, from microbial profiling to practical analysis of varying ecosystems. The degree program places a major emphasis on practical work in the field and on developing a wide range of analytical and manipulative skills appropriate to an environmental scientist. Graduates will be in an ideal position to exploit the opportunities for environmental scientists in Ireland, in established or developing companies.  

Why Study Environmental Science and Technology at DCU?

The course encompasses biological and genetics aspects

• The only environmental science and technology course of its kind in Ireland
• The chance to be involved in environmentally relevant research projects
• Nine-month paid work experience placement (INTRA) in Ireland or abroad
• Opportunities to participate in multiple dedicated field trips
• Environmental science and technology are growth areas, offering excellent career prospects

How You Fit The Programme

In recent years, environmental concerns such as diminishing fossil fuel reserves, radioactive and general waste management, and climate change have captured the imagination of the public and politicians alike.

This course explores the environment, the technologies used for its analysis, and how it's impacted by our activities from a scientific perspective. You'll consider and probe the problems we face, and investigate means for reducing our negative impact on the environment. 

The course examines elements of physics, chemistry and biology from an environmental perspective. The integration of these disciplines leads to a broad knowledge of environmental influencers and makes you an attractive candidate for employers. 

Programme Structure

Your first year of the course is taken in common with other Science courses, studying biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics. No prior knowledge of subjects other than mathematics is assumed. Your first field trip also takes place in Semester 2 of this year. 

In Year 2 you will build on the four areas of study from Year 1 from an environmental viewpoint, as well as developing IT and computing skills. Modules include Microbiology and Genetics, Pollution and Biosphere, Water Chemistry and Environmental Analysis. Several field trips take place across several modules. 

In Year 3 Climate Change science is introduced, and the study of climate is undertaken through field work and modules such as Environmental Monitoring and Data Analysis. You will continue to develop in environmental aspects of biology, chemistry and physics before undertaking your 9-month work experience placement (INTRA).

In the final year you will take specialised modules such as Toxicology, Meteorology, Renewable Energy, and Soil and Waste Management.  You'll complete a semester-long research project with environmentally relevant topics offered across the entire Faculty of Science and Health. 

Industrial Placement (INTRA)

• INTRA is paid.
• INTRA is relevant full-time work experience.
• INTRA takes place in Year 3.
• INTRA is arranged by DCU (in almost all cases).
• Through INTRA, gain understanding of the practical world of industry.
• INTRA helps you to make realistic career decisions.

Career Prospects

Environmental science is a rapidly growing area, offering careers in:

• Waste Management
• Pollution Control
• Environmental Assessment and Monitoring
• Health and Safety
• Local Authorities
• Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs)
• Environmental Consultancies
• Environmental Research
• Environmental Projection
• Green Economy

Testimonials

'Studying in DCU gave me a wide range of valuable laboratory skills as well as a significant understanding of environmental chemistry. Completing my research project really taught me how to work in a co-operative and professional research environment, giving me a very rewarding experience'

Robert Kane, BSc. in Environmental Science and Technology

 

For more information on the BSc. in Environmental Science and Technology at Dublin City University, click here.