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AgriBiosciences (Structured MSc)—full-time & part-time

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Course Overview

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Structured MSc (AgriBiosciences)

The Structured MSc by Research (AgriBiosciences) programme associated with the Plant & AgriBiosciences Research Centre (PABC) at University of Galway will provide relevant, hands-on training to graduates who wish to specialise in agri- and agrifood related research and innovation. The purpose of the programme is to provide these graduates with a broad inter-disciplinary understanding of the agricultural and agri-food sector from which key research skills and practical experiences tailored to each student will be built. 

Integral to this one-year structured MSc programme is a seven-month research internship placement in Teagasc, in University of Galway, or in a cutting edge agri-business. The program endeavours to lever paid internships for each student.

The placements offer students the opportunity to develop the necessary skills to work within a research and innovation setting aligned to their interests and expertise, to develop a research project of relevance to the host entity, and to draft an associated MSc (AgriBiosciences) thesis, whilst simultaneously positioning the student for excellent employment opportunities in industry and research. 

The taught component of the MscAgriBiosciences consists of 20 ECTS of core cutting-edge modules relating to the agriculture and agrifood sector which have been developed by the multi-disciplinary experts in the PABC and its associated partners (e.g., Teagasc). In addition, the student can take an additional 10 ECTS of optional Graduate studies modules according to their interests. 

The MSc (AgriBiosciences) is structured in a manner that can allow for those already employed in companies in the agri or agri-food sector to engage in the MSc program, while conducting their MSc(AgriBiosciences) research and innovation project in their company. 

Integral to the Level 9 MSc (AgriBiosciences) is development of the student’s ability to work professionally within a research and innovation setting by performing a research project based in one of the research groups or partner organisations in the PABC.               

Specific aims of the MSc (AgriBiosciences) programme are:

  • To provide Level 8 students from different backgrounds with a broad and in-depth understanding of agribiosciences innovation relevant to agrifood systems and challenges.                      
  • To provide multi-disciplinary knowledge in classical and state-of-the-art research technologies and techniques applied in the agri-biosciences areas.
  • To provide multi-disciplinary training in research skills at basic and advanced levels by introducing students to a research environment. 
  • To foster technical competencies and critical thinking abilities, and the ability to work towards research outputs. 
  • To prepare graduates for more effective implementation of subsequent PhD research programmes leading to completion times less than four years. 
  • To equip students for entry into the workplace, especially in the growing agribiosciences and agrifood sectors in Ireland and internationally. 

This is a modular course with a blend of 30 ECTS taught elements that provides a broad foundation of advanced knowledge of AgriBiosciences (Semester 1) and a 60 ECTS research project (Semester 2 & 3) to allow sufficient time for students to gain in-depth exposure to research and innovation. 

Taught component (30 ECTS): The four core modules of the MSc (AgriBiosciences) are weighted at 5 ECTS and consist of:

 (1) Understanding Ireland’s Agriculture & AgriFood Sector 

 (2) AgriFood Sustainability & Agri-Resilience Challenges 

 (3) Understanding AgriBusiness & AgriFood Market Trends 

 (4) AgriFood Career, Communication & Impact Pathway Skills 

The MSc (AgriBiosciences) course material is delivered using a blended learning format (combination of face-to-face/traditional-format lectures, tutorials, self-directed learning and assignments) that not only delivers the information the students have to master, but also train students in how to perform independent research which can be placed in the broader context agri-and agri-food sector impacts.

Site visits to agri research and innovation enterprises and institutions form an important element of the Msc (AgriBiosciences) training.

Research component (60 ECTS): The research project is tailored to the students educational background and interests, and is performed in one of the research group of the multi-disciplinary PABC or partner institution Teagasc, or a host commercial enterprise. Each MScAgriBiosciences Research Masters thesis is examined by an Internal and External examiner, as per the University Guidelines for Research Degree Programmes. The research project will provide research skills ranging from state-of-the-art technologies through data interpretation to experimental design and data presentation. Opportunities for multi-disciplinary projects with co-supervision, including with industry, are encouraged. 

An assessment of the progress of each student will be performed by the their respective Graduate Research Committee at the end of Semester 2. Progression to Semester 3 will depend upon satisfactory completion of this assessment although students wishing to exit after partial completion of the course (e.g., as a Diploma) will be facilitated to do so.  

Towards the end of Semester 3 (after concluding their research project) the students write their MSc (AgriBiosciences) thesis. In total, across Semesters 2 and 3 students will carry out a full time research project over 2 x 15 weeks (2 x 30 ECTS). The thesis will be guided and marked by the research project-leading PI  from University of Galway and a second PABC staff member. An external examiner from a leading international agribiosciences institution is responsible for examination, oversight and guidance of the MSc (AgriBiosciences), as per the University Guidelines for Research Degree Programmes.

Applications are made online via the University of Galway Postgraduate Applications System. 


You may also be interested in one of our other Science of Sustainability postgraduate programmes.

Programmes Available

Structured Masters by Research (full-time: 1 year duration; part-time: 2 years duration)
Applications are made online via the University of Galway Postgraduate Applications System. 

Associated

Learning Outcomes

Entry Requirements

Important Note: Applicants should follow the procedures described on master-act.eu before beginning their application.

Requirements for entry are:

  • Bachelor of Sciences or equivalent in agri-related sciences, or a BA in Social Sciences with a particular experience in agriculture;
  • Excellent academic background (2.1 honours degree required);
  • IELTS 6.5 (non-native speakers of English);
  • A cover letter and letters from at least two referees.

Who’s Suited to This Course

Current research projects

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Current funded research opportunity

Work Placement

Related Student Organisations

Career Opportunities

Find a Supervisor / PhD Project

If you are still looking for a potential supervisor or PhD project or would like to identify the key research interests of our academic staff and researchers, you can use our online portal to help in that search

Course Outline

Curriculum Information

Curriculum information relates to the current academic year (in most cases).
Course and module offerings and details may be subject to change.

Glossary of Terms

Credits
You must earn a defined number of credits (aka ECTS) to complete each year of your course. You do this by taking all of its required modules as well as the correct number of optional modules to obtain that year's total number of credits.
Module
An examinable portion of a subject or course, for which you attend lectures and/or tutorials and carry out assignments. E.g. Algebra and Calculus could be modules within the subject Mathematics. Each module has a unique module code eg. MA140.
Optional
A module you may choose to study.
Required
A module that you must study if you choose this course (or subject).
Semester
Most courses have 2 semesters (aka terms) per year.

Year 1 (90 Credits)

Required PAB5118: AgriBiosciences Research Project


12 months long | Credits: 60

The Research Thesis in AgriBiosciences is undertaken under the supervision of Uni of Galway staff members of ABC, and possibly in collaboration with a co-supervisor or any partner institute. The student implements, writes up and presents a Masters Thesis of publication quality in an area relevant to the AgriBiosciences.
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes
  1. To complete a major research Thesis in an area of interest for the AgriBiosciences to publication standard.
  2. To make a presentation of the findings of the research Thesis.
Assessments
  • Oral, Audio Visual or Practical Assessment (10%)
  • Research (90%)
Teachers
The above information outlines module PAB5118: "AgriBiosciences Research Project" and is valid from 2023 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.

Required PAB5115: AgriFood Sustainability & Agri-Resilience Challenges


Semester 1 | Credits: 5

The module will provide students with an understanding of the major sustainability and resilience challenges facing agriculture and agrifood systems in Ireland and internationally, resilience and agrifood transformation. The module will provide students with a cutting-edge understanding of major planetary boundaries relating to agriculture, and their inter-relationships with agriculture, diets, public health, food systems, markets and value chains. In the context of the development of future agricultural and agrifood systems in Ireland, students will gain an understanding of different scenarios and trajectories for agriculture and agrifood systems. Students will be required to identify emerging areas for disciplinary and inter-disciplinary research that can improve prospects for addressing sustainability and resilience challenges facing agriculture and agrifood systems in Ireland and internationally. The module will cover soil, biodiversity, water sustainability, GHG emission in Irish agriculture, forestry and Irish agrifood sector sustainability. The module will be taught in conjunction with experts from Teagasc and other partner organisations of NUI Galway, and will include lectures/seminars from leading international experts. This course is examined by the production of (i) an interactive learning journal, hosted via Blackboard, in which students will reflect upon webinars per four sustainability topics; (ii) participation in a Class conference format workshop, in which each student will make conference abstract (with graphical abstract) on a case-study of an agrifood sustainability strategy and will present this case-study followed by group discussion. PAB5115: Overall this module aligns with the following UN Sustainable Goals: 1 - No Poverty; 2 - Zero Hunger; 3 - Good Health and Well-being; 6 - Clean Water and Sanitation; 8 - Decent Work and Economic Growth; 9 - Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure; 10 - Reduced Inequality; 11 - Sustainable Cities and Communities; 12 - Responsible Consumption and Production; 13 - Climate Action; 14 - Life Below Water; 15 - Life on Land
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes
  1. Describe the major sustainability and resilience challenges facing the agriculture and agrifood sector globally
  2. Describe the major sustainability and resilience challenges facing the agriculture and agrifood sector in Ireland
  3. Identify research priorities and opportunities for improving sustainability and resilience of agriculture and agrifood systems
  4. Have an improved understanding how different research skills and inter-disciplinary approaches can develop and deliver agri-sustainability innovations
  5. Suggest strategies for improving the sustainability and resilience potential of agricultural and agri-food activities related to their own research area/topic
  6. Communicate research topic relevant to agriculture and agrifood sustainability as a conference abstract (including graphical abstract) & presentation.
Assessments
  • Continuous Assessment (100%)
Teachers
The above information outlines module PAB5115: "AgriFood Sustainability & Agri-Resilience Challenges" and is valid from 2023 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.

Required PAB5116: Understanding AgriBusiness & AgriFood Market Trends


Semester 1 | Credits: 5

This module will provide students with an improved understanding of Economics of Irish Agriculture & Agriculture and Food Sector, as well as the agribusiness structures and dynamics in Ireland and internationally. The student will gain insights into agri-economics, agri-business, and agri-market trends. Particular focus will be placed on understanding value chains and the role of research and innovations in driving change, economic and commercial benefits for value-chain stakeholders. The module will also provide insights into social, demographic, behavioral and gender dimensions of agriculture and agrifood sector, particular in relation to the agrifood sector generating both social and economic impacts in Ireland and internationally. The module will be taught by NUI Galway staff in conjunction with experts from partner organisations, and will include lectures/seminars from leading international experts. During the course, students will maintain a reflective journal in which they record their experiences and are encouraged to reflect on dynamics of national and international agrifood markets and trends; how new export markets could affect the agricultural and food products or services in Ireland and internationally; the impact of different disciplines on new agrifood services and products; an overview of this process will be included in the first taught session. The final assessment of the course is via a ‘business elevator pitch’ in which the student present a group project on a proposed agrifood innovation (e.g. a new product or service) to make cities more resilient to climate change impacts. PAB5116: Overall this module aligns with the following UN Sustainable Goals: 1 - No Poverty; 2 - Zero Hunger; 3 - Good Health and Well-being; 8 - Decent Work and Economic Growth; 9 - Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure; 10 - Reduced Inequality; 11 - Sustainable Cities and Communities; 12 - Responsible Consumption and Production; 13 - Climate Action
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes
  1. Summarise the dynamics of national and international agrifood markets and trends
  2. Understand the basic components for developing an agri-business plan
  3. Identify new export markets for agricultural and food products or services
  4. Develop and present a business plan for exploitation of an international market
  5. Appreciate the contribution of different disciplines and research approaches for developing and implementing a business plan for an agrifood product or service
Assessments
  • Continuous Assessment (50%)
  • Oral, Audio Visual or Practical Assessment (50%)
Teachers
The above information outlines module PAB5116: "Understanding AgriBusiness & AgriFood Market Trends" and is valid from 2023 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.

Required PAB5117: Understanding Ireland’s Agriculture & AgriFood Sector


Semester 1 | Credits: 5

The module is designed to allow postgraduate students working on agrifood & sustainability related topics to contextualise their research within the broader context of agriculture and the agrifood sector in Ireland and globally. Students will be enabled to understand the origins of the Irish agriculture and agrifood sectors, current status, challenges and opportunities of national and international relevance. The module provides an introductory overview of the contribution of farming and the agri-food industry to the Irish economy. Lectures provide an insight to key policy developments which have shaped the current structure of the Irish agriculture and agri-food sector and overview of the current challenges regarding land use change, technology innovations, adoption, environmental and economic sustainability. The module will introduce students to the challenges in Irish livestock and Irish crop sectors, how research in related areas contributes to its continued sustainable development and introduce role of agricultural extension and technology adoption for agrifood sector. The module will be taught in conjunction with experts from Teagasc and other partner organisations of NUI Galway, and will include lectures/seminars from leading international experts. ����1 - No Poverty; 2 - Zero Hunger; 3 - Good Health and Well-being; 4 - Quality Education; 5 -Gender Equality; 6 - Clean Water and Sanitation; 8 - Decent Work and Economic Growth; 9 - Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure; 10 - Reduced Inequality; 11 - Sustainable Cities and Communities; 12 - Responsible Consumption and Production; 13 - Climate Action; 14 - Life Below Water; 15 - Life on Land
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes
  1. Summarise the main factors which have affected the development of agriculture in Ireland
  2. Explain the linkages between agri-related research across different research areas;
  3. Identify priority and opportunity areas in which research can assist the development of Irish agriculture and agrifood systems;
  4. Present a report placing selected research topic in the broader context of Irish agriculture and agrifood systems;
  5. Demonstrate an improved ability to make oral and written communications of research topics in context of Irish agriculture and agrifood systems;
Assessments
  • Continuous Assessment (30%)
  • Oral, Audio Visual or Practical Assessment (70%)
Teachers
The above information outlines module PAB5117: "Understanding Ireland’s Agriculture & AgriFood Sector" and is valid from 2023 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.

Optional PAB5121: Writing a Review Article on a Sustainable Development Topic


Semester 1 and Semester 2 | Credits: 5

This module is designed for students to investigate, draft and engage in the procees to submit a review paper to a peer-reviewed journal, with a particular emphasis on sustainability and sustainable development. The student will gain understanding of what is a review article, including what is the function and audience of a review article. The module will provide training in the different types of methodological approaches to narrative, best evidence and systematic reviews, and classification typologies of reviews by objective or mandate. The student will gain an understanding of the key elements and structure of a review article, including through extensive review and critical analysis of existing high quality review articles in the literature.
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes
  1. Demonstrate an understanding of what a review article is, including what is the function and audience of a review article.
  2. Implement a process to identify gaps in the published review literature that can usefully be filled by an additional review paper on the topic, and justify why the review article should be considered for publication.
  3. Recognize the importance of review methods and understand the use of rigorous methods to conduct a review of existing literature.
  4. Deploy methodological approaches to narrative, best evidence and systematic reviews, and have an understanding of classification typologies of reviews by objective or mandate.
  5. Demonstrate understanding of the stepwise approach to investigating and drafting a review and sources of bias and confounding in researching and drafting a review article.
  6. Develop critical thinking and information skills including through review of the primary literature, existing review articles and developing a literature search strategy combined with quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis methods for the review.
  7. Appreciate the importance of research from high-quality peer-reviewed journals, including the use of bibliometrics to identify important primary or review papers in the literature that are advancing the state of the art.
  8. Engage with supervisors in a team effort to investigate and draft a review article that is of sufficient quality and scholarship to be considered for submission to a target journal.
Assessments
  • Continuous Assessment (100%)
Teachers
The above information outlines module PAB5121: "Writing a Review Article on a Sustainable Development Topic" and is valid from 2022 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.

Optional PAB5123: Designing and Writing a Sustainability Research Fellowship Application


Semester 1 | Credits: 5

This module aims to equip students with the skills to write a competitive research fellowship application targeted at specific funding agencies. During the module, the student will engage with their proposed supervisor(s) to identify a research question for a research fellowship application and design a competitive research application. The student will critically evaluate and reflect on the novelty and impact to be generated from the proposed research topic. The student will engage in mock reviewing of sample fellowship applications to gain an understanding of the grant evaluation process. A fellowship application structure including workpackages, a Gantt chart, milestones and key deliverables will form part of the fellowship application writing training.
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes
  1. Present their skills, education and experience to date in a manner competitive for a research fellowship application
  2. Efficiently work with supervisor(s) to identify a novel and impactful research fellowship application topic that can be investigated in the supervisor(s) research group(s).
  3. Investigate the state of the art in the published literature relating to the research question and outline how the proposed research fellowship application will fill a knowledge gap in the current state of the art.
  4. Formulate a coherent research fellowship application, containing a research question, research goal and objectives, workpackages, research methodology, timeline, milestones, deliverables, outputs, impacts and outcomes.
  5. Formulate feasible contingency plans for the proposed research fellowship application.
  6. Demonstrate awareness of ethics and sex/gender dimensions in research practice and the knowledge of how to prepare for and obtain ethical approval for research fellowship applications.
  7. Assess the feasibility of the research budget and the suitability/quality of infrastructure and facilities to effectively perform the proposed research fellowship applications.
  8. Complete a draft research fellowship application in the template of the funding agency, in consultation with proposed research supervisor(s).
Assessments
  • Continuous Assessment (100%)
Teachers
The above information outlines module PAB5123: "Designing and Writing a Sustainability Research Fellowship Application" and is valid from 2022 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.

Optional PAB5125: One Health


Semester 1 and Semester 2 | Credits: 5

This module focuses on the concepts of One Health in agriculture and agrifood contexts. One health is defined by the CDC as a collaborative, multisectoral, and transdisciplinary approach—working at the local, regional, national, and global levels—with the goal of achieving optimal health outcomes recognizing the interconnection between people, animals, plants, and their shared environment. Key areas where a One Health approach is particularly relevant include the control of zoonoses (diseases that can spread between animals and humans, such as Covid-19, flu, rabies and Rift Valley Fever), food safety, and combating antibiotic resistance. The module will outline how One Health approach relates to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), in particularly relating to trade-offs and co-benefits associated with SDG3 and other SDGs. The module will also provide an overview of OnePlanet, Ecosystem Health and Near Health concepts, as well as the concepts of behaviour change in context of OneHealth. The policy and regulatory aspects of OneHealth will be discussed, and will include case studies across a range of organisations. PAB5125: Overall this module aligns with the following UN Sustainable Goals: 3 - Good Health and Well-being; 4 - Quality Education; 6 - Clean Water and Sanitation; 8 - Decent Work and Economic Growth; 9 - Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure; 10 - Reduced Inequality; 11 - Sustainable Cities and Communities; 12 - Responsible Consumption and Production; 13 - Climate Action; 14 - Life Below Water; 15 - Life on Land
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes
  1. LO1. Explain and discuss the OneHealth and OnePlanet concepts, and the underlying rationale for such approaches to public and ecosystem health in different contexts. Demonstrate understanding of OneHealth and One Planet concepts relation to the sustainable Development Goals (SDG).
  2. LO2. Identify and describe the main policies and institutions nationally and globally of relevance to implementing the One Health approach.
  3. LO3. Apply a One Health approach to design of agricultural landscapes, farming and food systems that improve the health of humans, agricultural and natural ecosystems.
  4. LO4. Demonstrate learning and understanding of disease ecology, evolution and emergence, and the drivers of and impact of disease (social, economic, biological, evolutionary, demographic, ecological) interactions with biotic and abiotic systems. Use a One Health framework to evaluate disease control and prevention options.
  5. LO5. Explain how anti-microbial resistance (AMR) occurs, why it is a global problem, and what portfolio of technological and non-technological options can be used in a One Health approach to address the AMR challenge facing humanity.
  6. LO6. Describe the mechanisms by which zoonotic diseases occur using examples of major and emerging zoonotic diseases. Use a One Health approach identify options for combatting zoonotic diseases for improved health outcomes.
  7. LO7. Describe the range of current and potential therapeutic options for communicable diseases of humans, livestock and aquatic animals; Use a One Health approach to devise improved diagnostic and treatment options.
  8. LO8. Describe antimicrobial usage in food and agricultural systems in context of OneHealth approach. Demonstrate understanding of policy and regulatory aspects of food safety outlined by OneHealth concept.
  9. LO9. Develop a sustained and reasoned argument and communicate it in a manner appropriate to a target audience.
  10. LO10. Effectively and appropriately use information technology for information analysis and presentation.
Assessments
  • Continuous Assessment (85%)
  • Oral, Audio Visual or Practical Assessment (15%)
Teachers
The above information outlines module PAB5125: "One Health" and is valid from 2023 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.

Optional PAB5134: Strategic Career, Communication & Impact Pathway Skills


Semester 1 and Semester 2 | Credits: 5

Communication can aim to generate support for research or study, to inform decision making, political and policy thinking. This module will develop an understanding of the interactions between research and society, ensuring an understanding of the significance of research in society. This module with introduce the concept of Theory of Change and Impact pathway. Module will cover role of Theory of Change and Impact Pathway in communication, and implementation of critical thinking regarding research and communication activities. The module will introduce concepts of system thinking and design thinking approaches, as well as social marketing as a behaviour change approach. Students will be trained in strategic career development skills including CV development. Students also will be provided with the skills in identifying how they can themselves can gain critical research skill gap analysis in light of the emerging employment opportunities and trends across the private, public and NGO sectors. Students will be trained in effective networking and science communication strategies via different communication channels, including internet and social media, to improve career prospects. PAB5134: Overall this module aligns with the following UN Sustainable Goals: 4 - Quality Education; 8 - Decent Work and Economic Growth; 9 - Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure; 10 - Reduced Inequality; 11 - Sustainable Cities and Communities; 12 - Responsible Consumption and Production; 13 - Climate Action
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes
  1. LO1. Explain and discuss the concept of Theory of Change and Impact Pathways.
  2. LO2. Discuss a research topic for various audiences through news print, broadcast and social media.
  3. LO3. Analyse the implementation and identify the efficacy of different research communication approaches
  4. LO4. Develop approaches to communicate the importance of research in an area of sustainable development.
  5. LO5. Use systems thinking approach and social marketing approaches for behaviour change.
  6. LO6. Develop CV and a 5 year career plan based on skill-gap analysis.
Assessments
  • Continuous Assessment (30%)
  • Oral, Audio Visual or Practical Assessment (70%)
Teachers
The above information outlines module PAB5134: "Strategic Career, Communication & Impact Pathway Skills" and is valid from 2023 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.

Optional PAB5127: Geospatial Analysis and Remote Sensing


Semester 2 | Credits: 5

This module provides a broad overview of geospatial analysis, remote sensing and spatial databases, and application of Geospatial Information Systems (GIS), with examples from agricultural systems. During this module, students will be provided with hands-on education in the principles and practice of GIS. The module will provide knowledge on how to combine data from a broad range of sources and formats, including digital maps, administrative data, census, surveys and satellite imagery. Content focuses on the representation, acquisition, management, manipulation and analysis of spatial data. The module provides students with GIS concepts, applications for ecological, environmental and land-use analyses and hands-on experience of commercial and free GIS softwares. The module also provides an overview of data streams from remote sensing, including how to access and utilise data from remote sensing data streams (e.g. from satellite data). PAB5127: Overall this module aligns with the following UN Sustainable Goals: 1 - No Poverty; 2 - Zero Hunger; 3 - Good Health and Well-being; 4 - Quality Education; 5 -Gender Equality; 6 - Clean Water and Sanitation; 10 - Reduced Inequality; 11 - Sustainable Cities and Communities; 12 - Responsible Consumption and Production; 13 - Climate Action; 14 - Life Below Water; 15 - Life on Land
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes
  1. Critically review the availability and utility of GIS and remote sensing applications, articulate the principles of data acquisition, management and analysis in relation to GIS and remote sensing.
  2. Input, manage, analyse and output spatial and remote sensing data using ArcGIS and qGIS softwares.
  3. Discuss the principles of generating and integrating spatial data from primary and secondary sources and designing the databases.
  4. Discuss the principles of remote sensing and analysis techniques, remote sensing datastreams and their applicability to agricultural systems and environmental applications.
  5. Demonstrate skills in statistical analysis and problem-solving in relation to remote sensing and GIS.
  6. Explain the main concepts of agri-environmental modelling and planning
  7. Discuss the potential for disruptive advances relating to society and economy in the agri-environmental sphere arising from use of geospatial and remote sensing data.
  8. To take responsibility for his/her own learning
Assessments
  • Continuous Assessment (100%)
Teachers
The above information outlines module PAB5127: "Geospatial Analysis and Remote Sensing " and is valid from 2023 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.

Optional PAB5128: Data Analysis for Sustainability Research


Semester 2 | Credits: 5

The module will cover the core principles required in the analysis of complex multifactorial quantitative and qualitative datasets, interpretation and communication of the obtained results. This module will cover how to explore and understand the data, how to display the variables, normality of data, how to explore relationships between variables using scatterplot, correlations, linear regressions, associations between the variables and statistical model’s development. All practicals are conducted through R or other relevant statistical software.
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes
  1. Demonstrate a broad understanding of the concepts behind the collection, management, analysis and interpretation of numerical data.
  2. Demonstrate a broad understanding of the concepts behind the collection, management, analysis and interpretation of numerical data.
  3. Demonstrate understanding of the idea of testing hypotheses using the probabilities of the hypotheses being incorrect.
  4. Analyse and interpret datasets using relevant statistical software (correlation; linear and multiple regressions; chi-square; analysis of variance; multifactor analysis of variance).
  5. Describe the main principles of statistical modelling.
  6. Present data analysis and interpretation in the context of scientific publication.
  7. Critically apply theoretical knowledge to analyse data.
  8. Develop effective and efficient self-directed study skills
Assessments
  • Continuous Assessment (100%)
Teachers
The above information outlines module PAB5128: "Data Analysis for Sustainability Research" and is valid from 2020 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.

Research Areas

The Plant and Agricultural Biosciences Centre comprises a range of inter-linked and synergistic research themes, where research projects and initiatives are currently underway. Students taking the Structured PhD in Plant & AgriBiosciences will be able to conduct their research with research groups of PABC and collaborating institutions. 

Researcher Profiles

The MSc AgriBiosciences programme is taught by research specialists from the Plant & AgriBiosciences Research Centre, Teagasc and affiliated partner organisayions. A full list can be found here.

Course Fees

Fees: EU

€8,500 p.a. (€8,640 including levy) 2024/25

Fees: Non EU

€26,500 p.a. (€26,640 including levy) 2024/25

Extra Information

EU Part time: Year 1 €4,250 p.a. (€4,355 including levy) 2024/25

Contact Us

Prof. Charles Spillane & Dr. Galina Brychkova
Plant & AgriBiosciences Research Centre (PABC)
Áras de Brún,
University of Galway,
University Road, 
Galway H91 REW4,
Ireland.
www.plantagbiosciences.org 
E: charles.spillane@universityofgalway.ie | galina.brychkova@universityofgalway.ie
T: +353 91 493 655