| Code | NE6212 |
|---|---|
| Duration | 15 weeks |
| Teaching Mode | Part-Time. See Additional Teaching Mode Information for more info. |
| NFQ Level | Level 9 |
| Fees | €1,000 See Fees and Costs for full details. |
| Closing Date | 4 December 2026 |
| Venue | Blended delivery. |
| Credits | 5 |
| Start Date | 11 January 2027 |
Outline
Clean Energy Futures is a module that provides a deeper understanding of the complex challenges faced by societies, organizations, and individuals as we transition away from fossil fuels. How we live our lives and how we use energy are inseparable, and in this module, Ireland is examined as a test case for change. We explore how we currently heat our homes, fuel our transport, and generate electricity—and consider the options available for a cleaner, more secure future.
Through a multidisciplinary lens—spanning societal, scientific, engineering, and economic perspectives—the module investigates both the challenges and opportunities involved in reshaping our energy use. With a national focus, it is particularly suited to those working in environmental policy, national energy strategy, or climate-related fields who wish to broaden their understanding and connect diverse perspectives on building a cleaner future.
Module Goal
- to apply systems thinking to understand the complexity of energy use in our society, environment and economy.
- to understand the inherent uncertainties and natural tensions when planning future energy systems arising from different local and global perspective.
- To have an improved energy and climate literacy and understanding for core economic and environmental drivers of future change
Additional Teaching Mode Information
- 12 x 2Hr(s) Lectures (lectures take place on Mondays 10am -12pm)
- 2 x 2Hr(s) Tutorials
Practicalities
Practicalities
Total Marks - 100.
- Written Examination in UCC - 60 marks
- Continuous Assessment - 40 marks
Why Choose
On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
- Understand the key concepts, drivers, opportunities, and risks associated with our current and future energy use.
- Describe the interrelationships between energy affordability, security and environmental sustainability.
- Demonstrate knowledge of energy and climate policy at EU and National (Irish) level.
- Demonstrate ability to critically evaluate outcomes, learning and results from different energy futures.
- Engage and listen intelligently to various non-technical and technical discussion on future energy choices.
Skills and Careers Information
Learning Pathway:
Students completing this Micro Credential gain 5 credits exemption from the PG Cert in Offshore Renewable Energy.
Read more about that programme here PG Cert Offshore Renewable Energy
Requirements
Applicants must have:
- A Second Class Honours Grade 2 (or equivalent) in a primary honours degree (NFQ Level 8) in any discipline
of Engineering OR - a Second Class Honours Grade 2 (or equivalent) in a primary honours degree (NFQ Level 8) in areas of science
that required having completed level 8 mathematical subjects deemed equivalent to those of engineering (e.g. Physics, Mathematical Sciences, some Computing Science degrees), pending assessment by Programme Director OR - a pass in any accredited level 8 Engineering degree followed by professional experience deemed of sufficient added value, pending assessment by the Programme Director.
A quota will be allocated to applicants who do not meet these entry requirements. These applicants will be considered under Recognition of Prior Learning and assessed on the following factors:
- Academic achievement
- Prior Work Experience
- Letter of Reference
- Personal Statement
Fees and Costs
The fee for this micro-credential is €1,000, payable on application.
This fee is fully refundable if the programme does not run or if you are not offered a place.
How To Apply
Create an account or login to UCC Apply: https://ucc.elluciancrmrecruit.com/Apply
- Start a new application
- WHEN ASKED FOR APPLICATION TYPE - YOU MUST CHOOSE: ADULT & CONTINUING EDUCATION
- During the application on the tab titled Academic Level, under Level Selection, select the following options:
- Academic Level: Adult Continuing Education (ACE at UCC)
- Course Type: Microcredentials
- Academic Programme: Clean Energy Futures (NE6212)
Contact Details
Micro-credentials
Micrea-dintiúir
Contact us
The Laurels, University College Cork, Western Road, Cork, T12 EH31,