Sustainability and Climate Reporting

Master of Science

Course Details

Course Code	SG_SSGHG_V09
Level	9
Duration	2 years
Credits	90
Method of Delivery	Online
Campus Locations	Sligo
Mode of Delivery	Part Time

How to Apply

Course Overview

The aim of this programme is to arm students with a robust understanding of greenhouse gas (GHG) / carbon reporting methodologies, sustainability principles, and solution development applicable across diverse organisations.

By providing comprehensive education and practical training, our programme prepares students to navigate the complexities of GHG reporting and sustainability challenges effectively.

Ever increasing focus and recent legislative changes have brought sustainability into the boardrooms of many Irish organisations in a real way for the first time. Graduates of this programme will emerge equipped with the analytical skills, strategic mindset, and innovative tools necessary to address evolving organisation needs of GHG reporting, the development of CSRD plans and sustainability solutions. They will be poised to drive sustainable practices, assess the environmental impact of their operations, enact positive change, and lead initiatives for a greener, more resilient future across various sectors.

Course Details

Year 1

Semester	Module Details	Credits	Mandatory / Elective
1	Introduction to Sustainability in an Interconnected World This module introduces sustainability to professionals by exploring the interconnections between environmental, social, and economic systems to address global challenges such as climate change and resource scarcity. It highlights key sustainability principles, introducing sustainable thinking, circular economy, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Participants are equipped with tools and frameworks for understanding and implementing sustainable practices in diverse professional settings and industrial sectors. The module emphasises collaborative approaches, showcasing how cross-sector partnerships can drive transformative change. Case studies and practical applications help learners bridge theory with real-world practice, enabling them to design and advocate for sustainable solutions. By the end of the module, professionals will be empowered to lead sustainability initiatives, driving innovation and resilience within their organisations and industries. Learning Outcomes 1. Interpret sustainability and sustainable development and what it means in the context of industrial systems and society. 2. Determine the importance of ecosystems service and natural capital in the context of a modern world and interpret its impact to humankind. 3. Appraise the application of circular economy principles in the transformation to a more sustainable future. 4. Evaluate Irish and European policy in terms of challenges for current industrial practices and what it means for future enterprise activities. 5. Contrasta selection of methodologies used to measure sustainability.	10	Mandatory
1	Systems Thinking for Sustainability and Transformative Change This module focusses on developing skills to better understand sustainability challenges and critically assess opportunities for sustainable transformation. Systems Thinking is an important framework for addressing complex problems. Through fostering a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of our social, environmental and economic systems, the learner will explore opportunities for more effective and enduring solutions to global challenges. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate a detailed understanding of systems thinking and its role in sustainable transformation 2. Assess the complexity and interconnectedness of sustainability problems such as energy and food security, climate change and the biodiversity crisis. 3. Critically evaluate the application of systems thinking tools to better understand root causes and the interplay between different systems 4. Identify and evaluate the effectiveness of leverage points for sustainable interventions using systems thinking 5. Appraise the value of stakeholder engagement for collaborative, inclusive and effective change 6. Design strategies using systems thinking to facilitate transformative change for sustainability across various sectors	10	Mandatory
2	Solutions for a Sustainable Future The module Solutions for a Sustainable Future equips advanced sustainability professionals with innovative strategies to address global sustainability challenges. It explores solutions like renewable energy integration, circular economy models, and nature-based approaches to climate resilience. Real-world case studies illustrate the successful application of transformative solutions across industries and regions. Participants will engage in scenario planning and stakeholder collaboration exercises to develop skills that will allow them to implement sustainability frameworks. By the end, learners will be prepared to lead and drive systemic change for a sustainable future. Learning Outcomes 1. Interrogate the key concepts of sustainability and appraise their place as solutions for a sustainable future 2. Evaluate various sustainability models, systems and case-studies which explore the interconnectedness of environmental, social and economic solutions for today and tomorrow 3. Analyse the principles of social justice and the concept of a just transition to a sustainable world with modern actions and intent. 4. Define and differentiate between various stakeholders and their role and function when addressing transformational approaches to sustainability. 5. Critically assess existing and future methodologies in relation to how sustainability can best be implemented in the face of global change and uncertainty	10	Mandatory
2	Science Based Climate Action This module aims to provide an in-depth understanding of climate change, its impacts, and the various strategies and actions being implemented to mitigate and adapt to its effects. The module will explore the science behind climate change, policy frameworks, the role of innovation and technology, and the challenges and opportunities for all sectors in transitioning to a low-carbon, climate-resilient society. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe and illustrate the fundamental scientific principles underlying climate change, including the role of greenhouse gases, natural climate cycles and anthropogenic influences. 2. Critically analyse and evaluate national and international climate policies, agreements, and frameworks. 3. Differentiate and analyse the various environmental, social, and economic impacts of climate change at local, national and global scales. 4. Evaluate climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies, assessing their effectiveness and feasibility across various sectors. 5. Develop and communicate evidence-based solutions for climate action planning.	10	Mandatory

Year 2

Semester	Module Details	Credits	Mandatory / Elective
1	GHG Accounting and Life Cycle Assessment This module provides an in-depth exploration of the methodologies used to account for Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions and conduct Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) in the context of sustainability, corporate responsibility, and environmental management. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of how to quantify, manage, and report GHG emissions, as well as evaluate the environmental impacts of products, services, and processes across their entire life cycle. Learning Outcomes 1. Comprehend the fundamental concepts, methods, and standards for GHG accounting, including global standards such as the GHG Protocol and ISO 14064. 2. Conduct and interpret LCA studies using recognised standards (e.g., ISO 14040 series). 3. Calculate carbon footprints for different products, services, or organisations, applying the GHG Protocol or other standards. 4. Critically evaluate GHG accounting and LCA software tools, comparing their suitability for different applications and organisational contexts. 5. Develop strategies for advancements in organisational and product life cycles, identifying areas for emissions reductions and environmental improvement.	10	Mandatory
1	Sustainability Research and Reporting This module provides students with an in-depth understanding of the concepts, methodologies, and practices essential for conducting sustainability research and preparing sustainability reports. With a growing demand for transparency in corporate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices, this module explores the frameworks, standards, and tools used in sustainability reporting. Students will gain insights into the global regulatory environment, best practices, and the strategic role of sustainability reporting in enhancing organisational reputation and performance. Additionally, this module will support students in developing research methods essential for their dissertations, equipping them with the skills to conduct rigorous academic and industry-focused sustainability research. Learning Outcomes 1. Critically evaluate the key international frameworks and standards used for sustainability reporting, such as the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB), the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD), Integrated Reporting (IR) and the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). 2. Identify and apply various research methodologies used in sustainability studies, including qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods. 3. Design a comprehensive sustainability report, integrating key metrics, qualitative information, and ensuring alignment with relevant reporting standards. 4. Appraise a selection of up-to-date legal and voluntary sustainability reports from a cross-section of industrial sectors. 5. Communicate complex sustainability issues and data in a clear and impactful way to diverse stakeholders.	10	Mandatory
2	Dissertation This module requires the learner to pursue research on an appropriate topic in sustainability, integrate research findings and articulate the key considerations of the specific investigation. The Research Dissertation involves learners creating a significant piece of independent work under supervision, focused on a sustainability topic. The module aims at encouraging innovation and exploratory learning and to act as a capstone module to allow the student to draw on knowledge learnt in previous modules. The module exposes the student to the application of research methodologies and aims at developing critical thinking and analysis skills. Learning Outcomes 1. Identify, conceptualise, formulate and communicate a research proposal for a specific sustainability topic. 2. Complete a programme of work requiring sustained effort with the objective of developing critical abilities in analysis, synthesis and evaluation. 3. Identify the objectives of the study, formulate an appropriate methodology and review the literature relevant to the study. 4. Identify and utilise scientific research methods appropriate to the dissertation. 5. Collect, collate and analyse relevant data, using statistical tests as appropriate. 6. Evaluate and synthesise the main findings of the study and develop appropriate recommendations. 7. Synthesise the research work in the form of a research proposal, presentations,abstract/executive summary and minor dissertation. 8. Manage a personal learning process, demonstrate monitoring and revision procedures through the development of the dissertation and recognise the information and resource requirements of the study.	30	Mandatory

Recommended Study Hours per week

Students are expected to attend two online lectures in the evening each week. The online lectures are normally scheduled between 6-10pm from Monday-Friday during the term. It is recommended that students should try to allow for 14 hours per week per 10 credit module for their studies. This includes lectures, directed learning, independent study and workshop activities.

Examination and Assessment

This programme is assessed via 100% continuous assessment.

On-Campus Attendance Requirement

There is no on-site attendance requirement for this course.

Progression

A range of further study options are available to graduates of this programme, including PhD in ATU and other universities.

Download a prospectus

Postgraduate Prospectus Online, Flexible & Professional Development Prospectus

Entry Requirements

Candidates must hold a cognate Level 8 Bachelor (Hons) degree with a minimum grade classification of H2.2 or equivalent.

Candidates who do not meet the H2.2 or equivalent performance standard in a Level 8 award will be supported by the programme team and the RPL Unit to make an application for entry.

Fees

Total Fees EU: €7200

Further information on fees

Careers

Graduates are expected to be in a position to take on career opportunities in the area of sustainability and carbon management/reporting. Examples of roles in these areas include sustainability manager, ESG analyst, supply chain sustainability manager, sustainability reporting consultant, climate strategy consultant and climate reporting analyst.

Further Information

Application Closing Date

This course has closed for applications for September 2025.

Start Date

September 2025

Who Should Apply?

This programme is aimed at 3 distinct learner groups.

Undergraduates looking to complete a postgraduate qualification in this specialist area
Science Professionals looking to develop new skills
Non-science professionals who need to acquire new skills, so their organisation can fulfil it’s sustainability and GHG reporting obligations and introduce sustainability to their operational model.