As we learn more about the impact of modern development and industry on the world around us, the need for better thought out environmental management becomes clear. With government and EU regulations and legislation increasing, businesses and organisations are increasingly requiring qualified people with environmental training. A number of third level and postgraduate courses have emerged to cater for this demand. Environmental studies and control is a relatively new discipline and requires the amalgamation of a variety of new and existing technical skills.
Requirements
Each course you’ll apply for will differ with regards entry requirements. Generally, graduates with qualifications falling within the science and physical resources area are mostly welcome to submit applications. While candidates with relevant professional experience and qualifications might also be considered.
Courses Available
A post-secondary educational path in environmental studies has been available since the mid-seventies in Ireland; however, the plastic crisis and issues surrounding climate change has seen a surge in the number of programmes and specialties on offer. These include research and taught options, as well as full-time/part-time courses from level 8 through to Level 10.
Course modules can include Water Pollution Control, Air Pollution Control, Hazardous Waste Control, Noise and Vibration, Environmental Systems, Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Impact, Health and Safety Management, Law or Project Management. Also, you will most likely be required to submit a dissertation/thesis relating to your chosen subject area.
Why take a postgrad in Environmental Studies?
There are a lot of upsides if you’re considering postgraduate training in this field. While this professional arena is notoriously underpaid, if you work for the private sector there are plenty of fiscally beneficial roles out there. Also, a career focused on Environmental Science means you’ll have a rewarding job with your ultimate goal in supporting positive societal change. Plus, most jobs in this field will be both varied and interesting, and you will have plenty of opportunity to up-skill and travel.
Options for Progression
These postgraduate programmes are designed to provide graduates and technologists in industry and state bodies with useful and valuable technological and managerial skills – so those with postgraduate qualifications in environmental management and related areas shouldn’t be short of job options. Environmental management degree holders often work as specialists in public health, waste disposal, recycling, and pollution control.
Some environmental management experts work for government and regulatory authorities that investigate and prosecute companies that skirt environmental preservation regulations. A growing number of graduates actually work for companies that wish to prevent costly government actions by making sure they don’t break the rules. With concerns over pollution, global warming and corporate responsibility growing, and with EU and Irish government regulations becoming more stringent, environmental management looks set to continue as a growth area. One that is well worth considering for those interested in pursuing further study within the Agriculture, Environment, Food and Physical Resources sector.
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