BSc Hons. Environmental Science with Ecology

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Atlantic Technological University

Program Overview

The BSc (Hons) Environmental Science with Ecology at Atlantic Technological University is a four-year honours degree that equips students with scientific knowledge and practical skills to understand, monitor and manage natural and human-impacted environments, with a strong focus on ecology and field-based investigation. It suits students who want to work in environmental science, conservation, ecosystem management, biodiversity protection and sustainability, combining classroom learning with extensive fieldwork and laboratory experience.

Curriculum structure

Year 1 – Environmental Foundations & Scientific Skills

In the first year, students gain core scientific grounding through modules such as Introduction to Environmental Science, Cell Biology, Introductory Chemistry, Mathematics, Communications in Science, Environmental Physical Science, Earth Sciences, and Diversity of Life. These courses introduce biological and chemical principles, environmental systems, ecosystems and basic scientific communication and analytical skills needed for environmental investigation.

Year 2 – Ecology, Climate & Monitoring Techniques

In the second year, the curriculum becomes more ecology-centred with units like Aquatic Ecology, Terrestrial Ecology, Water Quality, Environmental Regulation, Climate Science, Environmental Microbiological Monitoring, Soils and the Environment, Introduction to Geographic Information Systems, and Environmental Enquiry Based Learning. Students develop hands-on field and laboratory techniques for environmental monitoring, species and habitat analysis, and begin to explore regulatory and climatic influences on ecosystems.

Year 3 – Applied Environmental Sciences & Placement

The third year focuses on applied ecology and environmental science with modules including Ecological Monitoring, Environmental Toxicology, Occupational Safety and Health, Water and Wastewater Treatment Theory, Environmental Ethics, Data Management, Environmental Instrumental Analysis, and a substantial Work Placement of 12–15 weeks in agencies, consultancies or government bodies. This practical experience enhances professional skills and real-world environmental problem-solving.

Year 4 – Specialisation, Research & Integration

In the final year, students typically complete advanced ecological and environmental science modules, often choosing electives that deepen skills in areas such as advanced habitat management, conservation biology or policy applications, and undertake an independent research project integrating field, laboratory and data analysis. The year emphasizes critical thinking, scientific communication and preparation for careers or postgraduate study.

Focus areas (in a string):
Ecology, environmental monitoring, water quality, climate science, soils and habitats, GIS and data analysis, environmental regulation, toxicology and workplace safety.

Learning outcomes (in a string):
Apply ecological and environmental science principles; conduct field and laboratory investigations; analyse environmental data; manage natural and human-impacted ecosystems; communicate scientific findings; complete professional work placement.

Professional alignment (accreditation):
This is an NFQ Level 8 honours degree aligned with Irish higher education standards, preparing graduates for careers in environmental management, ecological consultancy, conservation agencies, government bodies, and sustainability roles.

Reputation (employability rankings):
Atlantic Technological University is recognised for practical, hands-on science education; graduates are equipped for environmental, ecological and sustainability careers in Ireland and internationally, with skills developed through fieldwork, labs and professional placements

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Mandatory Work Placement: A 12-15 week professional placement in Year 3 within environmental consultancies, state agencies (e.g., Environmental Protection Agency), the energy sector, or other relevant organisations.
High Proportion of Practical Work: 50% of the coursework involves direct hands-on experience through fieldwork and laboratory practicals.
Fieldwork & Site Visits: The programme begins in Year 1 with a field visit module (The Environment Around Us), setting a precedent for applied learning. Site visits are integrated throughout to connect theory with real-world sites.
Specific Software & Digital Tools: Training includes computer mapping (typically Geographic Information Systems - GIS), data analysis, and core IT skills using Microsoft Office applications, as covered in the Information Technology 1 module.
Group Projects & Collaboration: Teamwork is emphasised from the start. For example, the Communications in Science module requires students to work as a team to research an environmental issue and deliver a joint poster and oral presentation.
International Study Options: Opportunities include studying abroad at partner universities (e.g., Mid-Sweden University) via Erasmus+ or participating in a two-week international summer school in the Netherlands or Sweden.
Professional Accreditation: The degree is accredited by the Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management (CIWEM), allowing students to become student members and connect with the professional industry body.
Assessment for Skill Development: Assessments are designed to build professional competencies, including scientific report writing, presentations, and practical skills evaluation.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of ATU Sligo's BSc (Hons) in Environmental Science with Ecology achieve excellent employability, with most securing positions before final exams due to hands-on training in fieldwork, labs, and real-world applications. The program emphasizes practical skills for managing natural resources and addressing ecological challenges. Typical roles include environmental scientist, ecologist, environmental protection officer, and ecological consultant.

Career Support:

ATU provides a mandatory 12-15 week work placement in Year 3 with environmental consultancies, EPA, local authorities, or energy firms, plus skills workshops in report writing and GIS.
High employment rate, often pre-graduation; entry-level salaries in Ireland for environmental roles average €35,000–€45,000 annually.
Partnerships with EPA, Inland Fisheries Ireland, National Parks and Wildlife Service, Irish Water, and consultancies for placements and research.
NFQ Level 8 Honours degree supports long-term professional accreditation and global opportunities in green sectors.
Outcomes include field/lab roles in consultancies, state agencies, energy sector, local government, and NGOs worldwide.

Further Academic Progression: Level 8 graduates can advance to ATU's Level 9 Postgraduate Diplomas or MSc in Environmental Health and Safety, Water Services Management, or research Master's/PhD via the Centre for Environmental Research Innovation and Sustainability (CERIS). Erasmus+ options like Mid-Sweden University or summer schools in the Netherlands prepare for international study. Practical experience facilitates entry to specialized ecology or sustainability programs.