Sustainable Development QQ1 Level 5

This QQI Level 5 Sustainable Development course supports young people and educators in understanding key environmental challenges and exploring practical ways to create positive change in their communities.

Who is this course for?
Anyone interested in a Level 5 Minor Award in Sustainable Development
Open to anyone aged 16–25 with an interest in sustainability
Senior Cycle students and school leavers looking to build knowledge and skills in sustainable development
Teachers and tutors of any age are also welcome to apply
Suitable for early-career professionals exploring opportunities in the sustainability sector
Professionals in sustainability-driven organisations who want to further develop their engagement with relevant issues

What will I learn?
Core concepts of sustainable development, including its origins, principles, and global goals
Key sustainability terms related to environment, society, economics, and quality of life
How resource use, agriculture, and consumer behaviour impact the environment
The importance of biodiversity, fair trade, cultural diversity, and indigenous knowledge
The links between global lifestyles, trade, and environmental challenges
Practical skills including environmental investigations, sustainability workshops, and planning sustainable community or agricultural initiatives

When can I start this course?
The next intake of this course is in September 3 2026.

What will I do?
Participants in this course will:

• Participate in group discussions, peer leaning tasks, lecture-style sessions
• Experience practical tasks with a sustainability focus

How will this course be delivered?
The course will be delivered in-person at ECO-UNESCO’s office at 9 Burgh Quay, Dublin.

The course timetable will be developed following consultation with the first cohort of participants. In-person sessions are likely to take place on weekday evenings with the potential for intensive weekend days, up to a total of 50 teaching hours over the course of 10 to 12 weeks.

Independent work will also need to be completed.

What do I need to be accepted?
You must be able to demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and competence associated with Level 4 on the National Framework of Qualifications
You must have a competent level of spoken and written English
You must have a PPS number
Applications must include a brief statement explaining why you would like to take part in this course

Fees
The cost of this course is €375. Fee assistance may be available; please contact ECO-UNESCO if you have any questions.

Sustainable Development
Award Type: Minor 
Awarding Body: QQI
Code: 5N5905 
NFQ Level: 5 
Credit Value: 15  
Duration: 150 hours (normally over 12 weeks)