Training | Ornithology for Offshore Wind micro-credential

Applications are now open for the Ornithology for Offshore Wind micro-credential course, delivered by University College Dublin (UCD). Applications close on 21 September 2026, with the course commencing on 28 September 2026.

As Ireland's offshore wind sector develops, understanding and managing the potential impacts of offshore wind infrastructure on marine and coastal bird populations is becoming increasingly important. Ornithological expertise plays a key role in environmental assessment, project planning, monitoring, regulatory compliance and the development of effective mitigation measures. This interdisciplinary programme explores the ecological impacts of offshore wind energy infrastructure on marine and coastal bird populations, combining ecology, environmental science, conservation biology and environmental policy, with a particular focus on the Irish context.

This industry-focused programme has been designed for professionals seeking to:

• Understand the direct and indirect effects of offshore wind energy on bird populations.
• Develop knowledge of bird species identification, monitoring, and flight behaviour.
• Understand and assess turbine collision risk, displacement, and habitat impacts.
• Analyse and critically evaluate scientific studies, environmental impact assessments, and international case studies.
• Apply ecological and statistical tools to assess environmental risks and impacts.
• Understand approaches to cumulative impact assessment and mitigation.
• Evaluate the policy and regulatory frameworks relevant to bird conservation and offshore wind development.
• Develop evidence-based recommendations to help minimise the ecological impacts of offshore wind infrastructure.
• Develop the knowledge required to produce an environmental impact assessment focused on interactions between offshore wind and bird populations.

Why professionals are choosing this programme:

• NFQ Level 9 / 5 ECTS micro-credential.
• 10 weeks, part-time, designed for professionals looking to upskill alongside their existing commitments.
• Blended delivery, with lectures delivered online either live or pre-recorded.
• Teaching takes place on Tuesdays from 4pm–6pm, subject to change.
• Includes two field trips, scheduled for late November / early December.
• Combines academic learning with practical, industry-relevant applications.
• Focuses on the Irish offshore wind context, while drawing on international research, environmental assessments, and case studies.

The programme is particularly relevant to professionals working in:

• Offshore wind and renewable energy
• Environmental consultancy
• Ecology and conservation
• Environmental assessment and planning
• Marine and coastal industries
• Sustainability and environmental management

The course is also suitable for companies seeking to develop the capabilities of their workforce to support offshore wind farm development and environmental assessment. Applicants should have an undergraduate degree in a related field, such as sustainability, environmental biology, or related engineering disciplines.

Skillnet Ireland funding

Eligible applicants can receive Skillnet funding towards the €1,850 course fee, reducing the fee to €600. Check your eligibility here: https://skillnetoffshorewindacademy.ie/funding-eligibility-criteria/

Career pathways

This programme provides a pathway towards careers as an Ornithologist specialising in offshore wind, supporting the monitoring and assessment of bird populations in relation to wind farm developments. Given the approaching application deadline, we encourage interested professionals to apply as soon as possible and to begin any required internal approval process with their employer.

• Course information: Ornithology for Offshore Wind

• Start your application: Trainee Profile Form

• Applications close: 21 September 2026

If you have any questions regarding the course, eligibility, funding, or application process, please don't hesitate to reply to this email or contact training@skillnetoffshorewindacademy.ie.