Course summary

On this course, you will study biodiversity and conservation in the context of a range of UK ecosystems including woodland, grassland and moor. You'll develop practical skills in habitat assessment and species identification. You will also expand your academic understanding, contribute to relevant research and meet local practitioners. The course is suitable for graduates with a background in ecology, biology and environmental science, but also for people with an interest in wildlife who are seeking a career change towards conservation, habitat management or ecological consultancy. We have strong links with public and private sector organisations including: Northumberland National Park Natural England local Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty local Wildlife Trusts Forestry Commission National Trust local ecological consultancies You will develop understanding, practical ability and critical awareness around the following: temperate zone ecosystems and wildlife species, for example forest and woodland, moorland, calaminarian, whin, coastal and other grassland, and other habitats contemporary conservation issues, for example rewilding, conflict in the countryside, biodiversity threats habitat assessment appropriate for ecological consultancy work surveying and mapping using technology such as GIS plant and animal species identification skills practical management planning for selected ecosystems communication including presentations, short videos, report writing and team work Support is available to you if you: have been out of education for some time have come from different specialisms are from education systems different from those in the UK We offer help in academic and professional skills such as: ecology for non-ecologists critical thinking for scientists information literacy data manipulation, analysis and presentation Our approach to data analysis is suitable for different ability levels. We use R software assuming basic knowledge, but build on it quickly so you can analyse and present dissertation data professionally, and undertake similar research in your future employment. You will: develop academic research and critical thinking skills as you complete a major conservation or biodiversity research project in the field or laboratory. develop an understanding of the sector and its issues as we visit sites and welcome speakers from relevant and important organisations. develop analytical and critical thinking skills as we debate the obvious questions like, ‘why do we conserve?’ along with deeper and more specific questions. enhance your CV so that you are in a strong position in the job market, or so that you can embark upon a PhD. We work with our Careers Service to provide a careers event to improve your job application prospects. We work with external organisations to ensure you are thinking about career opportunities as early as possible Delivery This course is taught in a block format each block lasting 4 weeks. You will be taught through: lectures and seminars practical and field visits tutorials case studies small group discussions vocational activities Independent study outside of these structured sessions is expected. Where possible assessments will be used to develop your employability skills such as: presentations: oral or using video skills management plans consultancy reports scientific papers group reports guided tours of conservation sites reflective critical pieces Exams are avoided wherever possible.