ESG and Carbon Accounting for SMEs (Certificate, Level 6, 10 ECTS)

ESGs for SMEs (5 ECTS)

ESGs for SMEs will Explain the fundamental principles of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) and their relevance to SMEs.
Help learners identify and interpret key ESG frameworks, reporting standards, and regulatory requirements applicable to SMEs (e.g., CSRD, GRI, SASB, TCFD). Equip learners to evaluate the business risks and opportunities associated with ESG adoption, including financial, reputational and operational impacts. Assist SMEs to assess current ESG performance and develop strategies for embedding sustainable practices into business operations; and prepare a basic ESG report that outlines sustainability commitments, key performance indicators, and stakeholder engagement strategies.

Carbon Accounting for SMEs (5 ECTS)

Carbon Accounting for SMEs will equip students with the knowledge to define and apply key concepts in carbon accounting, including Scope 1, Scope 2 and Scope 3 emissions. They will learn to measure an SME’s carbon footprint using established methodologies (e.g. GHG Protocol, ISO 14064) and data collection techniques. Analyse carbon emissions data to identify emission hotspots and recommend cost-effective emission reduction strategies. Evaluate the role of carbon offsetting and renewable energy initiatives in achieving carbon neutrality for SMEs. And develop a practical carbon management plan, including emissions reduction targets, monitoring tools, and reporting mechanisms.

(a) Minimum requirements will normally be a pass in six Leaving Certificate subjects, including Mathematics or an equivalent qualification. Applicants who do not meet these requirements but who are aged 23 and over will be considered for entry on the basis of a written assessment and, if appropriate, also an interview.

Or

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) 
If you do not meet the academic entry requirements listed above but would like your application assessed under RPL please select YES on the online application. Please include details of any relevant work experience/further information relevant to your application.

English Language: Applicants who do not have English as their first language must ensure they satisfy English Language requirements. For entry to undergraduate courses, a score of 5.5 in an IELTS or equivalent exam is required. For postgraduate courses, a score of 6.0 in an IELTS or equivalent exam is required. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure their English proficiency meets these requirements. Please note that we do not request proof of English language qualification or proficiency.

Start Date

Student ‘Welcome Induction Session’ will take place online on the evening of Wednesday 2nd September 2026.

Programme delivery will commence online the following week on Wednesday 9th September 2026.

The programme will be delivered over 1 semester and will be fully online.

Classes will run on Wednesday evenings from 7pm to 9pm.

Live online classes will be recorded and available to watch back.

Proposed Delivery Schedule is Subject to Change.

Each 5 credits will normally equate to approximately 100 Total Learning Hours. Total Learning Hours includes the time you spend in class (lectures, tutorials, practical elements) and the time you spend completing work outside of college. The balance between these two varies by discipline, and by level of study. You should bear in mind that the workload will increase at particular times e.g. when assignments are due.

Assessment will be through a series of continous assessment.

Certificate in Science in ESG and Carbon Footprinting for SME (Level 6, 10 ECTS)

€950* Springboard funded.

Successful applicants qualify for 50% Springboard+ funding & will be liable for the remaining 50% of the fee which is €475.

*Limited Places*

Places are allocated on a first come first served basis, prioritizing unemployed and returning applicants.

The programme will close once the maximum number of applicants is reached.

Final closing date for any unfilled places will be the 19th July 2026.

Programmes run subject to viable numbers.