Pre-University Environmental & Biodiversity Studies
Are you passionate about saving the planet? Does climate change and sustainability concern you? Do you want to make a difference in your career choice? This is the course for you!
| Award Name | Level 5 Certificate (Level 5 NFQ) |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | Major |
| Awarding Body | QQI |
| NFQ Level | Level 5 NFQ |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 5 Certificate (Level 5 NFQ) | Major | QQI | Level 5 NFQ |
Duration
1 year full-time.
Entry Requirements
• Leaving Certificate/LCA
• Students who may not have formal academic requirements but who have the ability to successfully participate on the course will be considered. (RPL Recognition of Prior Learning)
• If English is not your first language you may be asked to complete an English assessment
• Mature applicants welcome
Careers / Further progression
Careers/Progression
After the Course students will be uniquely positioned to understand and contribute to the biggest issues which face our planet today: climate change and biodiversity protection.
Students may also progress to participating Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) through the QQI Higher Education Links Scheme. This course may link to:
UCD Sustainability (DN240)
DCU Climate and Environmental Sustainability (DC294); Humanities (DC009) (Geography)
TU Dublin: Planning & Envir. (TU835); Sustainable Energy Engineering (TU801)
UCD: Arts (DN520) Geography etc.
Maynooth UNI: Arts (MH101) Geography etc.
Dkit: Environmental Science (DK887)
TUS Thurles: Environmental Science & Climate Change (US736)
ATU Sligo: Envir. Sc & Ecology (AU966) etc. Limerick Uni: Environmental Science (LM066); MTU Cork: Environmental Engineering (MT878) ;SETU Waterford: Engineering (Sustainable Energy) (SE700) etc
Also, Cathal Brugha FET College Science Students who graduate & meet the entry requirements for ATU Sligo are guaranteed places on most of their Level 6/7 Science courses. Laboratory apprenticeships are also an option.
Further information
Start Date: September 2026.
Registration Fee: €100 / Course Materials: €50.
Student Grants
Eligible students can apply for a SUSI Grant to assist with course costs. Please contact SUSI.ie for further information.
View https://www.cathalbrughafet.ie/general-information for other grants and supports.
Apply online. Please see "Application Weblink" above.
Pre-Uni Environmental & Biodiversity Studies (Cathal Brugha Campus).
How Will I Learn?
This course provides a strong theoretical and practical foundation in environmental science, exploring everything from local ecosystems to global environmental issues. Students will study topics such as plant science, biodiversity, carbon footprints, the greenhouse effect, and Permaculture Design.
Hands-On Learning:
• The course emphasises “learning by doing,” with regular field trips to key ecological sites, including:
• Botanic Gardens – Biodiversity Trail & Tree Study
• Trinity College Biodiversity Garden
• Bull Island – Alder Marsh Study
• IMMA – Grassland & Woodland Habitat Study
• Malahide Castle – 3-Habitat Biodiversity Study
• River Ward – Visual Assessment & Kick Sampling
• River Liffey & Boyne – Water Quality Analysis in Lab
• Permaculture Farm Visit
• Beach surveys with Coast watch Ireland. (Counts as work experience)
On-Campus Garden Projects:
• Students will also carry out biodiversity studies in a dedicated No Mow Zone at the North Strand Campus, working in teams and applying statistics. Guest lecturers will lead workshops in entomology (the study of insects).
Environmental Laboratory:
Students will have access to a newly equipped Environmental Lab, where they will gain hands-on experience in:
• Soil testing
• Water quality analysis
• River water sampling and testing
• Microbiology studies
Work Experience & Study Approach:
The course includes a mandatory work placement with environmental organisations, providing valuable field experience. Learning is delivered through a mix of:
• Classroom sessions
• Laboratory practicals
• Field work
• Online and onsite study
• Independent assignments
Certification: QQI Level 5 Award in Applied Ecology 5M5028.
Ecological Field Methods
Biodiversity and the Natural Environment
Sustainable Water Management
Biological Diversity
Biology
Teamworking
Work Experience
Permaculture Design
Statistics
Internships / Work Experience
Please note the components listed above may vary occasionally.
• Our students will have the option to apply for economy and sustainability related opportunities offered by Onnec Group
Also includes Online Course on Climate Change:
• Our students will receive certification on completion of an inspiring Rewrite programme, covering the foundations of climate science and exploring the many different touchpoints for climate change in our lives. www.rewriteclimate.com
A full Award is granted on passing the relevant eight components. You will be assessed throughout and at the end of the year (Continuous Assessment). On successful completion of each component, you will be awarded a Pass, a Merit or a Distinction grade.
5M5028 - Ecology
Cathal Brugha FET Campus
76 Marlborough Street, Dublin 1, D01 X8V0
T: 01 533 7126
E: info@kmcfe.cdetb.ie
Enquiries: anne.obrien@kmcfe.cdetb.ie