Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science

Graduate Profile - Niamh O'Sullivan

The main reason I chose UL is the Co-Op opportunity. A few third level institutions offer Environmental Science, however UL’s degree includes 8 months’ work experience. This meant that when I graduated, I would have gained skills that can only be developed in industry and I also would have relevant work experience in my future field. UL courses are focused on developing industry-ready graduates.

I was always interested in science in school, having studied both chemistry and biology, however I really enjoyed geography for my Leaving Cert. This course features all three subjects, along with field work and lab work, which I really enjoyed in school. Chemistry also features strongly, and even if you don’t have a strong chemistry background, the lecturers do their best to get everyone up to the same level.

My co-op experience was probably the highlight of my course experience. I worked at Irish Cement Ltd, in Drogheda Co. Louth, for my placement. Working with the plant’s Environmental Manager as part of the Environmental team, it was a great opportunity to see how environmental protection is applied to large scale industry. The job of an environmental scientist is to look at all aspects, from pollution to economy to infrastructure and quality of living, and that decisions need to be the best for everyone.

I was busy with lots of opportunities to learn both inside the office and out. I gained hands-on experience with sample collections and also got experience in filling out my first Annual Environmental Report. During my placement I also had the opportunity to work with the EPA and Natura and was invited to the annual environmental review meeting held between the Limerick and Drogheda Irish Cement sites.

My favourite part of my Co-op was the opportunity to meet and work with consultants in the field. My goal is to own my own environmental consultancy, so it was great to see that there were so many areas, from water testing to dust sample testing to biodiversity reports.

Choosing UL gave me the opportunity to work with excellent people who did their best to share their knowledge and professional experience with me.

Graduate Profile - Peter Shone 

I decided to come to UL because of all the facilities, particularly the 50m pool, where I instantly joined the swimming and water polo club and have competed for the university at many levels.

The Environmental Science course gives an insight into the quality of the environment and what we can do to make improvements for the benefit of the world. This course would be ideal if you are the type of person who enjoys science and interacting with nature - we study a number of subjects that involve taking samples from the air and rivers. In the first two years, we covered a lot of biology and chemistry. In years 3 and 4, we moved more towards the technology that can be used to help improve the quality of the environment around us. In third year, we also did an 8 month work placement that really gives you an idea of what it will be like to work in this area after you graduate.

On my co-op placement I learnt the importance of project management and working towards deadlines, as well as having the benefit of working on a multi-skilled team to achieve specific tasks. I felt that this experience has helped prepare me for the world of work and so has increased my employability. So, if you enjoy science, nature and have a view on helping to make the world a better place to live in, then this is the course for you!