Course Details

Course Code(s):
Module ER6421
Available:
Part-Time
Intake:
Autumn/Fall
Course Start Date:
October 2024
Duration:
8 Weeks
Award:
University Certificate of Study
Qualification:
NFQ Level 9 Minor Award
Faculty: Science and Engineering
Course Type: Professional/Flexible, Online
Fees: For Information on Fees, see section below.

Contact(s):

Express Interest

Register your interest here for more information or to be notified when applications are open.

Brief Description

This module will cover the Environmental Impact Assessment  (EIA) process, including current relevant EU policy directives and Irish national legislation, and will be specifically tailored for the Wind Energy sector. It will include an analysis of EIA case studies relevant to this sector.

University of Limerick, in collaboration with GreenTech Skillnet are offering up to 50% funding on a limited number of places to embark on the Environmental Impact Assessment accredited micro-credential, an 8-week course, which focuses on developing skills around Wind Energy in Ireland. 

How do you apply?

You can apply for the funding by expressing your interest above (via the GreenTech Skillnet). Your eligibility for funding will be assessed and you will then be provided the link to apply for a place on the programme to UL.

Learning Outcomes  

On completion of this micro-credential, you will be able to: 

  • Define EIA and demonstrate an understanding of its purpose  
  • Critique and evaluate relevant EU Directives and Irish legislation  
  • Evaluate the stages in the implementation of EIA: methods for screening, scoping, impact identification and evaluation, review, monitoring, and post development auditing  
  • Compare and review EIA and EIS 
  • Define and evaluate SEA, its purpose, and methods 
  • Acknowledge the differences amongst legitimate stakeholder views in relation environmental impact assessment.  
  • Discuss the role of the scientist in environmental impact assessment 

Module 

Topics to be covered include: 

  • Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) definition and purpose, genesis, and development both present and likely future relevant EU Directives and national legislation  
  • Stages in the implementation of EIA monitoring and auditing 
  • Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) review and the role of EIA in planning 
  • Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) directive purpose and stages 
  • EU Directives and national legislation relevant to the Wind Energy sector are addressed and included are analysis of EIA case studies relevant to this sector 

Delivery  

Blended learning approach with asynchronous activities (i.e. Pre-recorded lectures, Micro-learning Activities, Discussion Forums, Knowledge Checks) and synchronous live events (i.e. live online sessions). This is a 6 ECTS micro-credential.

How is this course assessed?  

Final report to identify and synthesise current best practice of Irish wind EIA. 

Applications are welcome from those who hold a degree in a relevant subject area, and/or have significant, relevant experience in the energy sector.  Applicants must hold a Level 8 Degree in cognitive discipline or equivalent relevant professional experience 

All applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis. 

Applicants who do not have English as their first language may satisfy English Language requirements:

  •  
    • If your qualifications have been obtained in a country where English is an official language this will suffice
    • If this is not available, the following additional documents must be provided:
      • English translation of your qualification(s)/transcripts
      AND
      • English language competency certificate
    • For more information on English Language requirements Click Here

€1750 – please contact GreenTech skillnet directly to apply for funding

Please click here for information on funding and scholarships.

Who Should Apply?  

  • Professionals involved in the energy sector who wish to understand more about environmental impact assessment in the planning process  

  • Graduates pursuing careers in the energy sector.  

Professionals from a variety of fields can be involved in the environmental impact assessment (EIA) for wind farms. Some key job titles that are typically relevant:

  1. Environmental Consultant
  2. Environmental Engineer
  3. Graduate EIA Students
  4. Ecologist
  5. Environmental Scientist
  6. Project Manager
  7. Energy Analyst
  8. Geologist
  9. Hydrologist
  10. Environmental Planner