Do you think that they're will be many jobs in this sector in the future?
The energy industry has been identified as a growth industry even in the current economic climate, a skills shortage in this area has been highlighted in numerous reports which has ultimately lead to the development of this programme. Currently in Germany there are more people employed in the energy sector than in the car industry, which they are noted for. Ireland's first green economic zone known as An tSlí Ghlas - The Green Way, has forecast 10,000 jobs over the next five years in the green sector in Ireland A very brief overview of the programmes structure is as follows. On completion of first year students will have a functional knowledge of domestic building and domestic energy systems including renewable energy technologies. Students will be able to use this knowledge to make calculated judgments about these technologies including cost benefit analysis. In second year we cover large scale renewable energy technologies and industrial and commercial building. Third year gives the student a functional knowledge of environmental issues surrounding energy, facilities management and energy management including energy analysis software.

Is their any add on's for this course in the college?
Yes, the level 8 BSc (honours) degree in Energy Management (built environment). .Energy management is a growth industry and with increasing regulation and the need to reduce energy consumption the role of the energy manager in industry has become very important.

There are also Level 9 MSc programmes offered in the area if wish to continue your education to that level.

Will there be much practical work involved in this course?
It is LIT's mission to teach through active learning which includes practical work. Most of the modules in this programme are practical by nature, and scenario/work based project work is part of all modules. E.G. Our first years recently carried out a feasability study on a site with a stream running through it to examine the potential for Hydro power as part of their project work.

The programme is ideal for students who wish to enter or develop a career in Renewable Energy, Sustainable Building and the management of Sustainable Construction and Renewable Energy Technologies. Renewable Energy and Sustainable Building go hand in hand in developing Ireland’s green economy.