Bachelor of Biological and Geographical Sciences, Maynooth University

Maynooth, Ulster

48 Months

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About this course

Environmental Biosciences is a four-year advanced programme designed to address the climate change crisis by integrating biology and geography. It focuses on understanding how organisms, ecosystems, and the environment interact, combining foundational knowledge with applied skills in data acquisition, experimental observation, and analysis. The course benefits from the strengths of the Biology and Geography Departments, offering students insights into how Earth's climates, landforms, ecosystems, and species interrelate, as well as how human activities impact these systems on local and global scales. Students develop technical proficiency in areas like GIS, climate analysis, molecular biology, and field methods, while also gaining transferable skills such as independent thinking, technical writing, presentation, teamwork, and leadership. The programme prepares students for diverse careers in environmental consultancy, GIS, town planning, research, healthcare, conservation, and science communication, with opportunities for further postgraduate studies or initial teacher training in biology and geography.

Why this course is highly recommended

This course is ideal for students passionate about tackling environmental issues through an interdisciplinary lens. It combines advanced technical skills with a broad understanding of the Earth's systems and human impacts. The variety of module options and collaborative opportunities make it flexible and comprehensive. The programme's emphasis on practical skills, data analysis, and research prepares students for a range of careers, including consultancy, research, and education, or further postgraduate studies. Graduates benefit from strong faculty expertise and the presence of supporting options in related sciences, making it a robust choice for future environmental leaders.

Specialisation

The programme offers core training across biology and geography, with options to focus more intensively in either discipline in later years. Students can concentrate on biological and geographical sciences, with an opportunity to continue with data science in the third year. Faculty expertise spans departments including Geography, Biology, ICARUS, and others, providing a multidisciplinary approach.

Course fees

Application fees

16.25L

1st year tuition fees

16.25L

Living cost

Degree requirements

For Leaving Certificate applicants, the requirements include Irish and English at O6 and H7 levels, Mathematics at O4 and H7, and Science at O6 and H7, with the science subject being Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or Physics with Chemistry. Mature applicants are assessed separately and must be 23 or older by January 1st of entry, or 21 for part-time studies. Additional criteria and application procedures are detailed on the university's admissions pages.

English language test

IELTS

6.5

PTE

DUOLINGO

120

TOEFL

Career prospects

Graduates can pursue careers in environmental consultancy, GIS, town planning (with postgraduate study), science publishing, and communication. Other options include research roles, healthcare, conservation, and science education, including becoming a secondary school teacher in Biology and Geography after postgraduate certification. The programme opens pathways into diverse environmental and scientific fields, supporting a broad spectrum of future employment opportunities.

FAQs

What are the entry requirements?

Applicants need Irish and English at O6, H7 levels, Mathematics at O4, H7, and Science at O6, H7, with specific science subjects outlined.

Can I do this course as a mature student?

Yes, mature applicants aged 23 or older (or 21 for part-time) are assessed separately, with corresponding application procedures.