Agri-Environmental Sciences

Programme Short Name: BAgrSc (Hons) (NFQ Level 8)
Load (FT vs PT): Full Time
Levels (UG, G, etc): Undergraduate studies
Course Information:

CAO Code: DN253
CAO Points Range 2015: 410 - 510
Length of Course: 4 Years
DN253 Places: 20

Leaving Certificate: Passes in six subjects including English, Irish, Mathematics, one laboratory science subject & two other recognised subjects. Two of the six subjects must be minimum HC3.

Click below for equivalent entry requirements information for:
A-Level/GCSE
Other EU Applicants
Non-EU Applicants
Level 5/6 FETAC Entry Routes
Level 6/7 Progression Routes
Mature Entry Route


Why is this course for me?

This degree focuses on sustainable management of natural resources (plants, animals, air, soils and water) within the context of agriculture and other land-based industries, and protection of the rural environment for future generations. This specialist applied science degree will equip you for a career at the interface between production agriculture and environmental protection, to give you:

  • An understanding of rural environmental issues in Ireland, the EU and worldwide
  • A detailed knowledge of sustainable agriculture and land management practice
  • The skills to contribute in future farming and land use industries, as either a scientist, planner or policymaker
  • First-hand experience of agri-environmental research as a basis for further studies
  • Interpersonal and professional skills required in a wide range of career paths

What will I study?

First Year
Focuses on teaching basic sciences relevant to agriculture (especially biology and chemistry) and provides an introduction to rural land-use systems and environmental issues.

Second Year
Focuses on the principles of crop and animal production and applied agri-environmental sciences. Modules include:

  • Environmental Biology an Ecology
  • Plant Biology
  • Soil Science
  • Applied Zoology
  • Agricultural Microbiology
  • Genetics and Biotechnology

On completion of second year, you have the opportunity to develop real-world scientific field skills through participation in a week-long residential field course in the Burren, Co. Clare.

Third & Fourth Year
Focuses on the environmental impacts of agriculture while learning practical field and lab-based skills in landscape analysis using GIS, as well as becoming familiar with national and international policies to protect rural environments. In fourth year, you complete a supervised research project and produce a thesis. This provides an opportunity to study a topic of your own choice more deeply, and gain practical experience of research and scientific writing.

Students spend an average of 40 hours per week attending lectures, tutorials and laboratory-based practical classes, and in undertaking independent study.

A combination of continuous assessment and end-of-semester written examinations is used. A number of modules also involve written assignments and/or project-based work.

For detailed information on subject content click here.


Career & Graduate Study Opportunities

Many AES graduates follow career paths as environmental consultants. Others work in State agencies that require both agricultural and environmental management skills, including:

  • Department of Agriculture, Food & the Marine
  • Teagasc
  • Environmental Protection Agency
  • National Parks & Wildlife Service
  • Local authorities

A high proportion of AES graduates go on to further studies at postgraduate level.


Professional Work Experience & International Study Opportunities

A five-month period of structured PWE takes place in third year. You can also elect to study abroad for one semester, at universities including:

  • Kansas State University
  • Michigan State University
  • University of California, USA
  • University of Queensland, Australia
  • Purdue University, USA

Staff Profile:

"The AES course at UCD is a well-balanced course, which is equipping students to meet the challenges of the job market and serious environmental issues facing the ambitious targets for agricultural production set by the Irish Government."

External Examiner's Report


Graduate Profile

Two unique aspects of this course are PWE and the final year project. PWE is excellent in terms of the development of skills applicable to the working world. The final year project was very memorable. You are free to carry out research in an area that interests you, with one-on-one guidance from a lecturer specialising in the field.

John Porter, Graduate


Related Programs: Agricultural Science
Agricultural Systems Technology
Forestry
Horticulture
Pathway


Contact Information:

UCD Agriculture & Food Science Programme Office
Agriculture & Food Science Centre
Belfield, Dublin 4

Tel: +353 1 716 7194
Email: agandfoodprogrammes@ucd.ie


Categories: Agri-Environmental Sciences