Certificate in Circular Economy

The circular economy (CE) challenges the fundamentals of how we manufacture, distribute, use and consume products and services. It is recognised as the most systemic shift in global industrial economics since the industrial revolution and has the attention of policymakers, CEOs, business and society at large. Responding to and embracing the business models, supply chains and enabling technologies of the circular economy requires new knowledge, skills and networks. This Certificate in Circular Economy will provide participants with state-of-the-art knowledge on the circular economy model versus traditional linear business/economic models, outlining how the circular economic model can achieve the sustainability goals of a business.

In semester 1, students will take ‘Circular Economy: A framework for a sustainable economy and society’ engaging with CE theory, frameworks and practices, business models, material flows, value chains and the e-business case for CE. This module includes the Circular Economy in practice series with case studies exploring resource management, plastics and packaging, supply chains and logistics, ICT as a CE enabler, circular food systems, towns, cities, and regions. Semester 2 will focus on ‘Innovate Circular: Strategies and Planning’ which explores systems innovation and circular design strategies to enable the companies to transition to more circular operations and key skills on communicating the circular economy, policy and funding.

Progression Opportunities

On successful completion of the programme students will have gained 20 credits at NFQ level 8 which may contribute to the achievement of other academic awards.

Entry Requirements

Applicants must hold a minimum NFQ level 7 ordinary degree in science, business, management, engineering, or a relevant degree area. Ideally candidates will possess relevant experience in one of the following areas: manufacturing, research and development, supply chain, procurement, engineering sales & marketing in one or more of the following sectors: manufacturing, supply chain management, agriculture, food & beverage, life science, chemical, packaging, waste management or construction. The University’s policy in relation to recognition of prior learning (RPL) also applies.

Course Information

NFQ: Level 8

CREDITS: 20
AWARD TYPE:
Special Purpose Award
LOCATION:
Online

START DATE: September 2025 (TBC)
DURATION:
This programme will be delivered online, part-time with 1 session per week

COST: TBC

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: 
Email: ikc3@mtu.ie

mtu

Information Webinar

The IKC3 Team held a webinar on Tuesday 5th November at 1:30pm, we shared how this programme can help your organisation reach its sustainability goals, details on course content and the application process. It is available to view on YouTube.