University of Galway

The MSc in Biodiversity and Land-Use Planning at University of Galway develops scientific and policy expertise for protecting biodiversity in real-world land-use decisions. You’ll learn how to assess habitats, apply legislation, and support planning processes that balance conservation with development needs. • Qualification: MSc (Master of Science) • University: University of Galway • Delivery: Blended learning (mix of online and on-campus learning) • Focus: Biodiversity science, habitat assessment, ecological survey methods, and biodiversity legislation and policy • Typical entry level: Level 8 (or equivalent) primary degree in an appropriate discipline • Language of instruction: English • English language requirements (minimums): IELTS 6.5 (or equivalent TOEFL iBT 88 / PTE Academic 63) • Credits and duration: Please check the programme website for the latest module credits and programme length • Application: Submit via the University of Galway application portal; start dates and deadlines vary by intake—confirm on the programme website The MSc is structured around core modules that develop both ecological competence and policy understanding. Core modules typically include: • Ecosystem Science • Flora and Fauna of Ireland • Ecological Survey Techniques • Biodiversity Legislation and Policy • Habitat Identification and Assessment Learning activities may include lectures, guided learning, and practical or field-informed components aligned with habitat assessment and survey methods. You will integrate scientific findings with planning and compliance considerations to support biodiversity-informed land-use decisions. For the most up-to-date curriculum details (module order, credit weighting, and any elective options), please refer to the programme website.

Academic requirements

Applicants should hold a Level 8 primary degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline. If you do not have a directly related academic background, relevant professional experience may be considered.

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT TOEFL iBT® is accepted by more than 13,000 universities and other institutions in over 160 countries. The test can be taken at a test center or at home. The test measures your English-language abilities in an academic setting. The score refers to the total score of 4 subjects (writing, listening, speaking, and reading), each subject has a range of 0 - 30.

OR

88

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PTE Academic PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English) is a language test that enables students to demonstrate their writing, listening, speaking, and reading skills when applying to study in English. The score refers to a total score which ranges between 10 and 90.

63

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IELTS The International English Language Test System (IELTS) tests your English-language proficiency on a scale of 1 – 9. The score refers to the combined average score of 4 subjects (writing, listening, speaking, and reading).

6.5

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Other requirements

General requirements

• Applicants should be able to demonstrate academic readiness for postgraduate study in an appropriate discipline. Where academic background is not directly related, relevant experience may support your application.

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Work Permits

Check for any work restrictions

After completing your MSc at University of Galway, you may be eligible to apply for a post-study work permission in Ireland, subject to meeting the relevant immigration requirements at the time of application.

• Eligibility: Typically requires that you have successfully completed your programme and hold the appropriate Irish immigration permission to study during your course.
• Duration: Post-study work permissions are granted for a limited period and may vary depending on your qualification level and the rules in force when you apply.
• Conditions: You must apply within the required timeframe after graduation and may need to provide evidence of programme completion.
• Work restrictions: Any work permission is subject to the conditions attached to your immigration status, including limits on hours or type of work where applicable.

Important: Immigration rules can change. Always confirm the latest post-study work eligibility and application process with the Irish immigration authorities and/or University of Galway international student guidance.