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Course Details

Course Code(s):
GY5031
Available:
Part-Time
Intake:
Spring
Autumn/Fall
Course Start Date:
Spring 2026
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.

Contact(s):

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

Read instructions on how to apply

for more information or to be notified when applications are open.

Brief Description

As cities grow, the demand for healthier, more sustainable living environments increases. Understanding the role of nature in urban areas is now essential for professionals shaping the future of our cities. 

This 6-week, Level 9 micro-credential introduces you to urban ecosystem services, essential benefits provided by nature in city environments.  

³Û´Ç³Ü’l±ô explore how ecosystems support urban life through services that are responsible for food production, air and water regulation, recreation, and biodiversity, and how these services can be supported through sustainable design, innovation and policy. 

Using real-world examples, you’ll learn how to assess urban ecosystem performance, apply strategic design thinking, and consider how best to support and grow ecosystem services in mutually beneficial ways. 

Designed for professionals and academics working in urban and rural planning, sustainability, innovation or public policy, this module equips you with the tools to design for environmental resilience and responsible urban and rural growth. 

This module is associated with the Climate Adaption and Sustainability - Professional Diploma. It can be taken as a standalone University Certificate of Study (UCOS) module or as part of a pathway to a larger award. 

During this module, you will: 

  • Explore the full range of urban ecosystem services, including provisioning, regulating, cultural, and supporting functions. 

  • Analyse how sustainable urban design and nature-based innovations can enhance resilience, health, and liveability in cities. 

  • Assess the effectiveness of urban ecosystem strategies using real-world case studies and evaluation tools. 

  • Build in-demand skills in evaluating and implementing nature-based solutions to address environmental challenges in urban settings. 

Key Information:

This micro-credential will be delivered primarily online over 6 weeks, with one non-compulsory on-campus induction on a Saturday  

You will be assessed using continuous skill-based assignments including reports, group work and presentations.

Part-time considerations:      

  • Designed for working professionals   

  • Evening or recorded lectures   

  • Additional prep and group work time   

  • Timetable provided after registration 

To help you to be successful on this course: 

  • Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree ( Level 8) with at least a second-class honours, grade 2 (2:2) in a relevant discipline. 

  • If applicants have a lower result or an unrelated qualification, they may be considered on a case-by-case basis if they can provide evidence of 5 or more years of post-degree industrial experience in Computer Science/IT/Computer Engineering or related disciplines. (Recognised Prior Learning). 

  • Previous experience with GIS or Python is an advantage  

Guidelines for your applications: 

  • When applying, be sure to include the Module Code GY5031. We can’t process your application without it. You can apply for more than one module using the same application.  

  • By applying, you confirm that you meet the entry requirements and can take part in the course and its assessments.  

  • This course will go ahead if it meets minimum enrolment number.  

  • Completing this module doesn’t guarantee you a place in a full programme. If you want to apply for a full programme, you must meet the specific entry requirements for that programme.  

EU - €750  

Further information on fees and payment of fees is available from the Student Fees Office  website. All fee related queries should be directed to the Student Fees Office (Phone: +353 61 213 007 or email student.fees.office@ul.ie).    

Other funding  

Find further information on funding and scholarships. 

This micro-credential can lead to the following sectors and careers: 

  • Urban planning and sustainable development roles focusing on integrating ecosystem services into city infrastructure. 

  • Environmental consultancy positions addressing urban ecological challenges and solutions. 

  • Policy development roles in governmental and non-governmental organisations focusing on urban sustainability. 

  • Research and academic positions exploring urban ecosystems and their services. 

Graduate and Professional StudiesPostgraduate Studies at ¾ÅÉ«ÊÓÆµ

+353 (0)61 234377
¾ÅÉ«ÊÓÆµ, Limerick, Ireland

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