Course Details

Course Code(s):
GY5031
Available:
Part-Time
Intake:
Spring
Autumn/Fall
Course Start Date:
Spring 2025
Duration:
6 Weeks
Award:
University Certificate of Study
Qualification:
NFQ Level 9 Minor Award
Faculty: Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Course Type: Professional/Flexible, Online
Fees: For Information on Fees, see section below.
Application Deadline:

Contact(s):

Name: Dr Immanuel Darkwa
Email: immanuel.darkwa@ul.ie
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Brief Description

Course commencement is subject to minimum numbers. 

This module will explore the range of services provided by ecosystems in urban settings – including provisioning services such as food, regulating services such as water storage and absorption of atmospheric pollutants; cultural services such as recreation; and support services such as nutrient cycling, which enable the other services. Examples will be used to consider how best to support and grow ecosystem services in mutually beneficial ways.

FUNDING

This course qualifies for 80% funding under the HCI Micro-Credential Course Learner Subsidy. Check fees section for details and eligibility.  Please Note: Applicants may only apply for and receive, one subsidised course per semester.

APPLICATION INFORMATION

Please ensure you enter the Module Code when applying for this module. Applications without this cannot be processed.

You may apply for more than one MicroCred under the same application.

PATHWAY

This micro-credential represents a single module within a larger further award (eg. Certificate, Diploma, Masters). By taking this micro-credential you may be eligible to apply for a credit exemption should you progress to study for a further award. The programmes associated with this MicroCred are: 

With cities expected to house over 70% of the global population by 2050, aging infrastructure and inefficient systems threaten to negative impact urban ecosystem services. Whether you're looking to launch a career in urban innovation or simply want to understand how your community can thrive this module will equip you with the knowledge to make a meaningful difference.
Practically, we will explore how harnessing nature's wisdom we can implement cutting-edge social, environmental, and technical innovations, and how design principles can create positive impacts across social, economic, and ecological dimensions.
A changing climate necessitates a strategic shift towards sustainable practices. This module will equip students with the knowledge and tools to integrate urban ecosystems services and sustainability into their professional repertoire, fostering both environmental responsibility and other relevant successes.

Syllabus (indicative content)

  • Introduction
  • Urban Ecosystem Services
  • Tie Urban Ecosystem Services to Business or Organizational strategies
  • Urban Ecosystem Service and Strategic Urban Design Foundations
  • Urban Ecosystem Services and the Futures of Urban Living
  • Assessing and Evaluating Urban Ecosystem Services
  • Assignment Week
     

Learning Outcomes

  • Students will be introduced to and learn about urban ecosystem services.
  • Students will gain insights into relevant concepts and learn how design and innovation can truly be a catalyst for transformative change.
  • By exploring real-world examples of successful urban transformations, students will gain valuable insights into the skills and roles needed to build a more sustainable, data-driven future for our cities.

Assessment

Through reports, group work and presentations.

Relevant degree (Geography, Environmental Science, Sociology, Mathematics, Computer Science, or similar) or equivalent experience. Previous experience with GIS or Python programming would be an advantage.

Entry requirements are established to ensure the learner can engage with the course material and assessments, at a level suitable to their needs, and the academic requirements of the module. By applying to this micro-credential, you are confirming that you have reviewed and understand any such requirements, and that you meet the eligibility criteria for admission.

Successful completion of this module does not automatically qualify you for entry into a further award. All programme applicants must meet the entry requirements listed if applying for a further award.

€750.00

HCI Micro-Credential Course Learner Subsidy - Candidates who satisfy the eligibility criteria can qualify for 80% funding subject to the availability of places. To clarify eligibility please go to Eligibility Criteria 

Please click here for information on funding and scholarships.

Relevant degree (Geography, Environmental Science, Sociology, Mathematics, Computer Science, or similar) or equivalent experience. Previous experience with GIS or Python programming would be an advantage.

Entry requirements are established to ensure the learner can engage with the course material and assessments, at a level suitable to their needs, and the academic requirements of the module. By applying to this micro-credential, you are confirming that you have reviewed and understand any such requirements, and that you meet the eligibility criteria for admission.

Successful completion of this module does not automatically qualify you for entry into a further award. All programme applicants must meet the entry requirements listed if applying for a further award.