Environmental Biology  (EBS1)

The BSc Environmental Biology degree programme is focussed on the biological aspects of environmental science and equips students with a strong background in ecology and its application to environmental assessment and management. The course reflects the broad integrated multidisciplinary approach required in modern environmental research and management, drawing on modules from the disciplines of zoology, plant science and microbiology. Our students graduate with an ability to find, critically appraise, synthesise and communicate existing knowledge in environmental topics, and with practical experience of generating and reporting new insights as independent researchers. The programme aims to support a systematic development of knowledge and specialised and transferable skills via lectures, tutorials, field-based studies, laboratory-based practical classes and small group teaching. Student learning is assessed both continually within the semester and by end of semester examinations. The principles underlying the degree structure are flexibility and choice to enable students to develop and explore their interests in different branches of the discipline, while at the same time ensuring the breadth of experience required by many employers. Indeed, there is a strong emphasis on skills and links with industry – core modules include mock environmental impact assessment, field-based sampling and identification, and guest lectures from environmental managers and consultants. The programme uses research-led teaching, experimental and problem solving practicals, case studies, field-based analysis and development of core scientific and transferable skills, and culminates in a major final year research project under the supervision of an academic staff member.

1 - 1. Demonstrate an understanding of the diversity, evolution and ecophysiology of plants, animals and microbes
2 - 2. Be conversant with the principles of population, community and ecosystem ecology
3 - 3. Understand anthropogenic pressures and their impacts on natural ecosystems
4 - 4. Understand ecotoxicology and evaluate different approaches to environmental monitoring
5 - 5. Be able to describe key environmental legislation in Ireland and Europe
6 - 6. Demonstrate an understanding of conservation biology and environmental management
7 - 7. Be able to identify and classify biota
8 - 8. Evidence mastery of appropriate field skills, including scientific drawing, sampling, producing field notes, operating within health and safety legislation
9 - 9. Demonstrate competence in scientific method, experimental design, interpreting data and problem solving
10 - 10. Have developed a capacity for using and communicating scientific information (finding, critical appraisal, synthesis, reporting)
11 - 11. Demonstrate the competence for project planning, time management and independent research
12 - 12. Be able to work effectively as part of a team

Students’ performance will be reviewed at the end of the academic year. Students who fail 50% or more of their registered modules, and who fail to progress to the next stage of their programme, will be identified under the UCD Continuation – Academic progress policy. Students’ performance will continue to be reviewed in subsequent trimesters and students will be invited to meetings with the College of Science office for support and guidance.

Where the rate of progression and performance over two academic years is deemed unacceptable, a case will be submitted to the Governing Board for review. A recommendation for discontinuation may be the outcome of this review.

As Stages 3 and 4 have the most dynamic components of the programme, and the material studied previously may no longer be relevant, a student who has been away from the programme for a significant period should be required to register again to Stage 3. The upper limit for completion of Stages 3 and 4 should be six years if they choose to do 120 credits with 20 in each year.

Stage 3

Students take six core modules and four option modules. Students should select two modules from List A and one module from List B. The fourth module may be selected from List A, B or C. Students may choose 10 credits from Elective modules or alternatively, choose additional option modules to complete Stage 3. If you are interested in doing an Internship as part of Stage 4, you must indicate your interest now (in Stage 3). See full details www.ucd.ie/science /careers/internships/students/

Stage 4

- Students take one core and eight option modules. - The 20 credit research project module is spread over two trimesters and 10 credits of work is expected in Autumn. Students should bear this in mind when selecting options and balance their workload across trimesters.

See the UCD Assessment website for further details

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Module Weighting Info