Overview

This module will support students, as the current/future construction sector stakeholders, in developing more sustainable construction processes and products, with a focus on areas of energy performance of buildings, retrofitting of existing structures, decarbonisation of construction processes and circularity. Finally, the module will introduce the concept of a just transition for the construction sector, where the needs of end users are understood and translated into new products and processes. This module is a science-based approach and key tools, methods and materials will be explored.

Entry Requirements

Applicants must be over 21 years of age. Applicants should hold: an undergraduate bachelor degree 1st or 2nd class honours in any discipline level 8, along with three years of relevant industrial experience or an ordinary bachelor degree or 3rd class honours undergraduate degree level 7, along with five years of relevant industrial experience or a recognised professional qualification and five years of relevant industrial experience. Candidates who do not meet the minimum entry criteria are encouraged to contact the programme's administrators to discuss eligibility through Recognition through Prior Learning (RPL) and may be interviewed to ascertain their suitability for the course. 

What you will Learn

The built environment and construction industry is in a position of considerable responsibility and influence, in terms of delivering a more climate-resilient economy (Ernst and Young, Detailed Description of Needs for the Irish Construction/Built Environment Sector report, 2021). Climate action continues to be one of the key drivers for the construction sector, and this will continue to be the case for the considerable future in Ireland and internationally. The Government must meet very challenging CO2 reduction targets while ensuring sustainable development. This creates opportunities for the retrofitting of existing structures and finding improved ways to construct new buildings.

Learning Outcomes

1. Evaluate the energy performance of a building, with a focus on building envelope and ventilation/ heating systems
2. Effectively utilise building regulations and best practice standards for new builds and retrofits
3. Gain experience in performing building energy simulation software
4. Critically assess the performance of different renewable energy sources in buildings
5. Consider the principles of sustainable design in the built environment
6. Assess the environmental, social and economic impact of construction
7. Apply the concepts of embodied and operational carbon and life cycle assessment (LCA)
8. Apply the principles of circular economy for the construction sector, including increasing circularity rates, reducing waste, and improving material efficiency;
9. Reflect on the concepts of social justice applicable to the construction process, e.g. housing needs, sustainable transport, gender equality, etc.

Assessments

• Continuous Assessment (100%)

Contact

If you have any questions about this course, please contact:

Micro-credentials Team,
University of Galway

Email: Micro-credentials

How to Apply

From the 1st April 2025, you can apply for this micro-credential through our Online Application Portal.

Learn more about our application process.

Apply here: Online Application Portal

When completing your application please make sure to select the following categories:

Academic level: Micro-credentials and CPD
College/Interest type: Micro-credentials/CPD Postgrad Level 9
Academic programme: Science and Engineering Postgrad micro-credentials CPC15

You will need to manually enter the Module Name and Code under ‘Module Name’ on the second page of your application. Please copy the name and code below:

Sustainability Planning in Construction - CE5104