Unlock Marine Leadership: Advance Your Career with Coastal & Marine Governance Expertise

05 January 2026

Are you ready to equip yourself or your team with the knowledge and skills needed to lead in the rapidly evolving field of coastal and marine management? The Introduction to Coastal and Marine Governance micro-credential delivered by University College Cork is a high-impact course designed for professionals and aspiring leaders who want to make informed, strategic decisions about coastal and marine environments.

Delivered online over 8–12 weeks, this part-time programme offers a flexible, accessible learning experience that fits around work commitments. With live (and recorded) sessions delivered Tuesday mornings, busy professionals can engage deeply with the course content.

At its core, this course demystifies how coastal and marine spaces are governed and managed. You’ll explore essential concepts such as coastal zone management, marine spatial planning, sustainable development, and integrated policy approaches. These foundations are paired with practical skills in handling coastal and marine data from scientific disciplines including oceanography, biology, and environmental science.

What sets this course apart?

• Practical, policy-relevant insights: Gain an understanding of real-world governance structures and how they influence coastal and marine decision-making.
• Hands-on skills: Learn how to apply governance principles and interpret coastal and marine datasets - essential for roles in planning, environmental consultancy, and policy development.
• Professional flexibility: The online format ensures that your team can train together or individually without travel constraints.
• Certification that counts: Earn a recognised 5-credit micro-credential from a leading Irish university that signals expertise.

This course is ideal for graduates from environmental, social science, or related fields and even those with experience in maritime sectors who seek to extend their professional competencies into governance and management contexts.

Investing in this course means investing in impactful decision-makers. Coastal zones and marine spaces are under increasing pressure from climate change, urban development, renewable energy expansion, and biodiversity conservation needs- leaders equipped with governance expertise are urgently needed.

With skills that matter, this programme opens pathways to roles in environmental planning, resource management, sustainable development strategy, and beyond. Whether you’re recommending courses to your team or looking to elevate your own career, Introduction to Coastal and Marine Governance helps you stand out with relevant, actionable knowledge.

Secure your place: The next cohort starts 12th January 2026, with funding support available through Skillnet lowering the cost to €500 for eligible applicants.

More details and to register!