This module involves the study of aquatic members of the Kingdoms Protoctista, Fungi, Plantae, and Animalia. Morphological characteristics, biology, life history strategies and evolutionary trends will be studied at a theoretical and practical level. Adaptive radiation, environment adaptations and ecological roles of aquatic organisms will form an integral part of the module. This module is taught via lectures and practical laboratory sessions.

1. Describe the range of forms and function of the aquatic members of the Kingdoms Protoctista, Fungi, Plantae, and members of the Animalia

2. Explain the evolutionary trends in morphology and life cycles in the groups studied

3. Prepare a range of biological material for microscopic and macroscopic examination and dissection

4. Identify and illustrate the characteristics by which these organisms are classified and use dichotomous keys to identify a range of organisms

The module provides an introduction to the biology of fish and shellfish, and the techniques used to culture various species of fish and shellfish. The learning opportunities within the module provide an important foundation in basic knowledge required when exploring aquatic resource monitoring, assessment and management techniques later in the course.

Sustainable development topics referenced within the module include: Zero Hunger; Clean Water and Sanitation; Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure; and Life Below Water.

1. Describe the biology of fish and shellfish

2. Outline important considerations for culturing aquatic species

3. Apply a range of practical skills (e.g. use identification keys, dissect fish and shellfish, set up culturing systems)

4. Reflect onindustry applications of the knowledgegained in class

Botany and Zoology are two key branches of biology, each focusing on different forms of life. Botany is dedicated to the study of plants, while zoology centres on the study of animals. This module offers a comprehensive overview of the diversity found in both plant and animal life, with a particular emphasis on variations in morphology and biological processes. Additionally, it explores evolutionary trends across species. Through a combination of lectures, laboratory sessions, outdoor classrooms and field trips, topics such as plant and animal diversity, environmental adaptations, and the ecological roles of aquatic organisms are examined. Botany and Zoology II follows on from Botany and Zoology I.

1. Describe the range of forms and function of the aquatic members of the Kingdom Plantae and Animalia

2. Explain the evolutionary trends in morphology and life cycles in the groups studied

3. Prepare a range of biological material for microscopic and macroscopic examination and dissection

4. Identify and illustrate the characteristics by which these organisms are classified and use dichotomous keys to identify a range of organisms

This module studies the physical, geological, and biological processes important to the functioning of aquatic ecosystems. Limnology and Oceanography focuses on inland freshwater ecosystems (limnology) and marine ecosystems (oceanography). Improved understanding of these systems is critical to maintaining and enhancing the health of aquatic systems. Limnology and Oceanography offers a challenging study programme with both field and lab elements providing a foundation for exciting careers in many areas of aquatic science.

1. Identify and describe the major processes that define the earth’s biosphere

2. Evaluate the important physical, geological and chemical environmental variables which sustain aquatic life

3. Describe the importance of productive processes and the inter-relationships between biota and their aquatic environments

4. Select and apply analyses and methods appropriate to the scientific study of aquatic environments

The module provides a theoretical and practical basis for the selection and application of a range of field and laboratory techniques relevant to applied freshwater and marine biology. Learners can select to develop and apply these skills in either the freshwater or marine environment, allowing them to explore differentiated learning to inform their choice of alternative career paths. Sustainable development topics referenced within the module include: Good Health and Wellbeing; Cleaner water and Sanitation; Climate Action; and Life Below Water.

1. Demonstrate proficiency in a range of relevant field and laboratory techniques.
2. Select and apply appropriate techniques to address analytical tasks in applied freshwater and marine biology
3. Plan and conduct fieldwork in a safe, effective and successful manner.
4. Record, interpret and present data, results and outcomes of field and laboratory analyses in a competent and professional manner.

This module develops basic concepts and skills in experimental design, data management, data exploration, statistical theory and analysis of experimental and observational ecological data.

1. Understand basic theoretical and applied principles of statistics

2. Gain proficiency in using statistical softwarefor the statistical analyses of biological and ecological data

3. Organise and present scientific data in tabular and chart format using computer applications to aprofessional standard
4. Apply the principles of hypothesis testing to carry out some basic statistical tests for significant difference and / orassociation

5. Make scientifically valid conclusions from analyses of biological data and comment on their reliability
6. Demonstrate an understanding of and ability to apply experimental design principles in the collection of biological and ecological data.
7. Appreciate the need for quality assurance in the collection, presentation and analysis of biological data.

This module includes the study of a wide range of diverse aquatic habitats including oceans, coasts, estuaries, lakes, ponds, wetlands, rivers, and streams. Each ecosystem is explored to examine the community of associated living organisms, their physical and chemical environment, and how these are linked by flows of energy and nutrients. In addition, the integrating impacts and causes of global climatic changes and various environmental pollutants of concern in aquatic environments is discussed.

1. Apply techniques and knowledge gained in prior learning to address multi-disciplinary ecological issues in aquatic environments and ecology.

2. Select and utilise sampling procedures and/or equipment appropriate to specific aquatic environments.

3. Undertake integrated field-based sampling projects, with cognisance and evaluation of the risks of working in hazardous environments.
4. Synthesise their understanding of the major processes that shape ecology in aquatic environments, and apply integrated solutions to ecological issues.
5. Demonstrate an awareness of the difficulties involved in tackling the complex issue of global change and of attributing (in whole or in part) theimpacts to human activity

This module will provide the learners with an introduction to environmental monitoring and assessment, including the scientific basis for monitoring. The module will address legislation pertaining to the evaluation of environmental quality and of management practice. In addition to, addressing use of monitoring data in assessing the consequences of natural resource management actions and pollution risks to the environment. Water quality will be described in terms of pollutants, biotic indices, toxicology testing and management plans. Key elements of biodiversity assessment will be introduced, as well as impacts of biodiversity loss and the role of biodiversity in facilitating ecosystem services. Concepts and techniques for the assessment of megafauna distribution and abundance will also be introduced.

1. Have a knowledge of legislation pertaining to environmental monitoring and assessment, including national, European and international legal frameworks.

2. Define water pollutants of concern and use of appropriate techniques to investigate the effects pollution can have on water quality and wildlife. Including applying biotic indices for water quality data evaluation.

3. Understand the challenges and opportunities in the measurement and assessment of biological diversity (biodiversity), and application of methodologies for such work.

4. Be informed of appropriate techniques to assess mega-fauna biodiversity, including mapping their distribution.

5. Describe how informed management procedures may ameliorate the environmental effects of problems resulting from anthropogenic activities.

The module provides the learners with an introduction to fisheries monitoring and assessment. The module will address the biology of key commercial marine and freshwater fish and shellfish; commercial fishing techniques and modern gear technologies. European fisheries and their regulation through the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) will be introduced, while recreational fisheries will also be addressed. Fisheries mathematics and the collection and analyses of data will be applied to selected fish stocks for the purpose of fisheries stock monitoring, assessment and management. Sustainable development topics referenced within this module include: Zero Hunger, Life Below Water.

1. Describe the biology of key commercial marine and freshwater fish and shellfish species.

2. Outline European fisheries and their regulation through the Common Fisheries policy (CFP)

3. Describe how the collection and analyses of data on commercial fish and shellfish species can inform monitoring and assessment of key commercial fisheries stock.

4. Critique commercial fishing techniques and modern gear technologies leading to better quality and sustainable catches.

5. Summarise the challenges facing the Irish fishing industry and discuss ways to improve the future sustainability of the resource.

On completing this module students will be able to identify factors that limit the distribution and abundance of species and determine patterns in biological diversity; they will learn to design and set up robust laboratory and field experiments and to choose appropriate sampling techniques. They will understand statistical theory and be able to apply the relevant statistical techniques to the analysis of ecological data.

1. Identify possible factors responsible for setting the limits to the distribution and abundance of species, and for determining variation in biodiversity.
2. Choose appropriate techniques for sampling marine and freshwater organisms.
3. Create hypotheses, design and set up experiments and field sampling programmes to test them.
4. Select and apply appropriate statistical principles and techniques to analyse ecological data.
5. Use statistical software applications for data analysis.
6. Present and interpret ecological data in scientific format.

This module will provide the learners with the advanced identification skills and tools necessary for taxonomic proficiency in two groups of organisms. It will also develop skills in dissection techniques, interpretation of identification keys, and taxonomic designation that are transferrable between taxonomic groups.

1. Identify aquatic organisms to species level
2. Demonstrate proficiency of identification techniques applicable to a chosen class/group of invertebrates, algal groups or marine mammals

3. Demonstrate understanding of the principles of taxonomy, systematics and classification

4. Create resources that can be used to aid in the identification of the specialist group e.g. species portfolios, identification keys

5. Apply acquired knowledge and skills in the context of appropriate assessment e.g. indices of ecosystem health

This module allows individuals to identify their competencies and to develop the professional and personal qualities required for success throughout their professional life. Though a series of workshops and lectures learners identify areas of strength and areas for improvement, and develop a personalised development plan demonstrating their capacities for prospective employment or self-employment. The module includes two certified, externally delivered, relevant courses which may differ each year e.g.(i) STCW Personal Survival Techniques; (ii) ISA Powerboat Level 2; (iii) JNCC/SMART MMO course; (iv) EUROWA BASIC Responder Training (BRT) for Oiled Wildlife Response.

1. Identify and articulate their differentiated learning experience
2. Creation of a personal and professional development plan
3. Evince an ability to appraise recruitment processes and match their profile to the selection criteria.

4. Develop a communication plandemonstrating knowledge and awareness of different stakeholders

5. External courses will also have specific learning outcomes e.g.

STCW Personal Survival Techniques: Certified to go to sea with the essential basic knowledge and experience needed to maximise chances of survival in the case of an emergency.

ISA Powerboat Level 2:Certified to helm a powerboat safely without supervision, in good conditions and familiar waters, and to have a basic knowledge of boat preparation and handling.

MMO: accredited Marine Mammal Observerto carry out visual observations for marine animals in compliance with applicable regulations, guidelines, permits or Notice toLessees and Operators (NTL) as stipulated by the country or specific region of operation.

BRT: to contribute towards national preparedness and response capability when it comes to pollution incidents involving marine wildlife such as birds, seals and cetaceans.

Learners will work for a relevant host organisation for a minimum of eight weeks, under the guidance of an industrial mentor from the host organisation, the placement co-ordinator and an academic supervisor from ATU.

The module will develop the learner professionally and personally and equip them with the skills, knowledge and relevant industrial experience to give them insight to and enable them to plan for and achieve their career goals.

All aspects of work placement are covered from seeking and applying for a placement, navigating the interview process, to undertaking a relevant work placement.

Learners will also complete assignments while in the workplace. The assignments are designed to evaluate the learner's developing knowledge of the host organisation, as well as reflect on how their placement experience meets the learning outcomes of the module.

1. Analyse professional and personal skills and characteristics and produce a coherent CV and career development plan.

2. Explain how the host organisation operates, including the type of work carried out in each of the sections of the host organisation, and its role in society.

3. Describe the legal and regulatory working environment of the host organisation and the procedures that the organisation has in place to adhere to this regulatory regime, including the organisations health and safety protocols.

4. Explain how they applied previously acquired theory and practical knowledge to their day to day work in the host organisation.
5. Develop at least one technical skill significantly through work-based project learning while on industrial work placement. This should include interpretation of scientific results arising from such work

6. Describe how their placement experience has improved their professional competence (e.g. through an improved ability to: communicate and work effectively with others; show initiative and work independently; organise their workload and set priorities; respond to new challenges and changing situations).

7. Critically evaluate how they have contributed to their host organisations objectives.
8. Explain how their placement experience has modified their career aspirations and future employment prospects.

This module deals with fundamental concepts in the scientific study of animal behaviour, and with the application of behavioural concepts to the conservation, management and welfare of aquatic animals. It contains a mixture of theoretical and practical elements, including lectures, laboratory work and field work.

Sustainable development topics referenced within the module include: Clean Water and Sanitation; Responsible Consumption and Production; Climate Action; Life Below Water; Life on Land.

1. Explain fundamental concepts in the scientific study of animal behaviour.

2. Describe and assess the useof behavioural concepts for the conservation and management of aquatic animals, and in ensuring high standards in aquatic animal welfare.

3. Critically evaluate published scientific studies in aquatic animal behaviour.
4. Demonstrate the practical and analytical skills required to study animal behaviour in laboratory and field settings.
5. Design and carry out laboratory-based behavioural studies. Analyse, interpret and explain the results of the studies.

The Project Methods and Preparation module provides the theoretical insight and practical skills required to plan, implement, and report a scientific research project in aquatic sciences. The module is the prequel to the research project in the second semester, allowing the student preparation time to select, research and design their research project. The module includes lectures and assignment / practical work. There is a high element of self-directed study required in the research of their individual projects.

1. Critical appraisescientific literature

2. Communicate scientific proposals, papers and reports with clarity and logical structure.
3. Prepare and deliver an oral presentation on a scientific subject.
4. Identify and choose a research project topic and plan the delivery of that research project.

This course will provide the learners with specialised and state-of-the-art knowledge of the biology and ecology of aquatic species. The aim of the module is to build on biological modules at levels 6 and 7 so that the learner can describe the structure and functioning of aquatic organisms, adaptive strategies and interactions between species, the interactions between species and their environment.

Sustainable development topics referenced within the module include: Good Health and Wellbeing; Quality Education; Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure; Climate Action; Responsible Consumption and Production; Clean Water and Sanitation; Life Below Water; and Life on Land.

1. Appraise the selective pressures that have resulted in the biological strategies employed by aquatic species

2. Evaluate the potential impact on aquatic ecosystems of disturbances to physical, chemical, and biological processes.

3. Appraise the techniques and methodologies available to address current questions in marine and freshwater biology

4. Synthesise and critically evaluate information from a range of sources to arrive at a comprehensive understanding within the area of specialisation.

5. Identify gaps in current understanding and directions for future scientific research

This course provides an overview of the application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in the marine and freshwater environment and uses practical exercises with real data to develop core GIS skills, coupled with critical thinking and interpretation of outputs.

1. Describe elements of a GIS and the application of GIS in marine and freshwater environments
2. Demonstration of practical GIS skills- data acquisition, management, manipulation and analysis, presentation and output
3. Provide evidence of ability to exercise judgement in capturing and selecting appropriate data (including online repositories and resources), analysis techniques and interpretation and presentation of results

4. Demonstrate an ability to direct their own learning in the practical applications of GIS in marine and freshwater projects

This module studies patterns in biodiversity, interlinkages between climate change and biodiversity loss, species extinctions, and factors which make species vulnerable to extinction. Students will learn to prioritise species in terms of endangerment and chose appropriate management strategies to ensure the long-term survival of species. Students will be aware of contrasting value systems and stakeholder issues when making management decisions. The module is delivered through a combination of lectures, practical classes and fieldtrips.

1. Understand the criteria for the establishment of protected areas and the principles underlying their management.
2. Identify contrasting values among stakeholders where biodiversity is threatened.
3. Evaluate the need for ex-situ conservation of rare and endangered species

4. Assess whether a species is at risk of extinction, categorise that risk and identify the significant threats to it.

5. Understand the interlinkage between climate crisis and biodiversity loss and identify nature based solutions to mitigate this loss

6. Critically assess ecological restoration theory and models used to conserve vulnerable habitats and species

This module develops advanced skills in data handling, data management, data exploration, and statistical analyses of experimental and observational ecological data.

Students will gain confidence and competency in the use of computer applications to explore data collected in field surveys and laboratory experiments, the creation of plots using graphics interfaces, their analysis using advanced statistical models and in the critical evaluation and interpretation of the outputs from these analyses.

1. Use software applications to input, store, manage, presentand analyse biological and ecological data

2. Evaluate a problem and select and apply advanced statistical tests and models.

3. Critically evaluate the characteristics, adequacy and reliability of observational and experimental data and thelimitations of approaches to statistical analysis.

4. Understand, formulate, perform and interpret statistical analyses appropriate to particular types of experimental and observational data in aquatic sciences.

The learner will undertake approved research under the direction of an internal supervisor. Learners may select a research topic from any discipline within the course or from an area of expertise of the supervisor. The design of the research should be produced by the learner with the advice of the supervisor.

1. Select and synthesise information available in scientific literature in order to establish the need, scope and context of the research
2. Develop creative ways of solving new research problems utilising methodical, logical and statistical approaches.
3. Collect and analyse data qualitatively and quantitatively, including an assessment of the statistical validity of the research results.
4. Manage resources allocated to completing a scientific research project.
5. Communicate research results in written and oral forms, demonstrating critical analysis, synthesis and organisation of knowledge, and the construction of a rational and lucid scientific argument.

Legislation as a tool in environmental management, with special focus on compliance with environmental monitoring and impact assessment. Particular emphasis will be placed on the practical aspects in terms of licencing and assessment in relation to Ireland's obligations under European Directives and advocacy. In addition, addressing international wildlife legislation pertaining to assessing and maintaining biodiversity.

Sustainable development topics referenced within the module include: 6. Clean Water and Sanitation, 7. Affordable and Clean Energy, 11. Sustainable Cities and Communities, 12. Responsible Consumption and Production, 13. Climate Action, 14. Life Below Water, 15. Life on Land.

1. Describe the role of legislation in environmental management;

2. Identify and understand the principles behind a range of relevant national, EU and international legislation;

3. Describe the role and limitations of environmentalassessment (EA) in Ireland and the EU;

4. Evaluatenational, EU and international legislation pertaining to assessing and maintaining biodiversity,and limitations in such approaches;

5. Explain the measuresto be taken across the EU in relation to invasive alien species included on the Union list (EU Regulation 1143/2014); including prevention, early detection and rapid eradication, and management.

Aquatic resource management is the management of society's interactions with, and impacts on, the aquatic environment and aquatic species. Sustainable management involves managing economic, social and environmental systems. In this course, the ecosystem management principles involved in rational exploitation and conservation of aquatic environments and species is considered in the light of legislation. A national, European and global perspective is included, and underlying principles are demonstrated by reference to case studies.

Sustainable development topics referenced within the module include: Zero Hunger; Decent Work and Economic Growth; Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure; Reduce Inequalities; Responsible Consumption and Production; Life Below Water; Life on Land; and Climate Action.

1. Evaluate the key factors underlying conservation management of aquatic environments and species.

2. Interpret the regulatory guidelines relevant to aquatic resource management.
3. Describe the ecological significance of top predators in aquatic ecosystems, including their use as sentinels and ecological indicators.

Students will learn how to develop and construct conceptual and statistical models using a variety of tools, and apply modelling skills to the analysis of natural resource systems. The models developed and tools utilised have particular application to the biological and ecological assessment of fisheries, wildlife, and ecosystems, and the management of human use of these resources. The course provides an opportunity to learn transferable skills such as R coding, which are becoming a standard requirement in industry and academic research.

1. Demonstrate fundamental understanding of statistical inference.
2. Construct conceptual, mathematical and statistical models to describe and infer population and system dynamics.

3. Apply models to predict outcomes under given scenarios, and to evaluate risks and uncertainties.

The international residential field course is intended to provide students with the opportunity to acquire knowledge and experiential learning which will integrate learning outcomes from a range of modules in the degree. The chosen location represents an interface between freshwater and marine environments, comprising priority habitats with significant anthropogenic impacts, such as intensive agriculture, hunting and harvesting, water abstraction and climate change.

1.
Select and perform techniques to assess aspects relating to biodiversity and conservation.
Identify relevant environmental law as pertaining to the activities covered during the field trip.
Identify the important resource management issues covered during the field trip.

This module facilitates the learner in appropriate application of advanced skills in data management, statistical analysis and related analytical techniques to their applied research project. The module will assist the learners in the completion of their year 4 projects to a professional and industrial standard.

1. Devise a suitable experimental and / or observational survey design directed at a reliable and defendable conclusion to an applied research project
2. Select and perform advanced statistical tests and analyses to project data.
3. Evaluate the adequacy and reliability of the data the learner produces during the project.