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The Programme
This course is aimed at those wishing to pursue careers within the ecology sector. Students will explore the issues faced by habitats and species and put forward innovative, forward thinking, evidence-based solutions. Development of a broad understanding of the legislation surrounding species and habitats and practical survey skills are central themes to the course.
What You Study
- Wildlife identification and survey techniques
- The principles of ecology
- Geographical information systems
- Wildlife legislation and habitat assessment
- Habitat management planning
- Fauna and flora surveying
- Research skills.
Business and employment elements are included to improve transferable skills and give students a thorough insight into their chosen career path.
There is a strong emphasis on applying theoretical knowledge to practical situations in the field.
How To Apply
Application for the full-time course is through UCAS using code C1F8 and application to the part-time programme is through our online application form.
Duration
Two years full-time or three years part-time.
Full-time students are expected to attend college for 16 hours a week to include lectures, seminars, practicals and tutorials. This may include some evening teaching. Students are also expected to carry out a significant amount of private study (approximately 25 - 30 hours a week) in addition to contact time. Part-time study will be on an infill basis.
Progression
Students can progress on to the BSc (Hons) Ecology and Environmental Management (Top up) course.
How You're Assessed
Assessment includes practical reports and demonstrations, written assignments, portfolios, scientific posters and group or individual presentations.
Work Experience
Work experience is an integral part of the course. Past students have gained placements with a variety of ecological and environmental organisations with which we have excellent links. A total of 152 hours is required in a related part of the industry over the two years of the course.
What else can I expect?
- Field trips to a range of excellent range of habitats in the local area including wetland and freshwater, woodland, farmland, coast and estuary, moorland.
- Employer links to various relevant organisations including local Wildlife Trusts, council departments, national organisations such as the RSPB, ecological consultancies.
- Additional facilities include Science Centre, IT suites, an excellent Learning Resources Centre and access to online resources such as Athens.
- Online Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) used to enhance and facilitate teaching and independent learning on all courses.
- Talks from a range of visiting speakers.
- Experienced staff with both academic and industrial experience.
What could it lead to?
Work as a field ecologist, research assistant, ecological databse officer or in many more role available with ecological consultancies, advisory bodies and conservation organisations, such as Natural England. Graduates may also pursue opportunities to work on ecological surveying and monitoring projects abroad.
Financial Information
Visit our degree finance page for full details of fees and the financial support available.
Equipment Required
Students will need to buy a College white laboratory coat for lab practicals, waterproof clothing, outdoor footwear including wellington boots and walking boots. Students will generally require a pair of steel toe-capped safety boots and may also need a pair of waders. Recommended items include binoculars and a range of key texts.
Policies and Procedures
Please use the following links to learn more about our policies and procedures.
- Academic Regulations: This programme follow the regulations of University of Hull.
- Student Disciplinary Policy
- Complaints
Please visit our Document Downloads page to access the College's other policies, i.e. our Mental Health Policy.
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Entry Requirements
Applicants should have 48 UCAS points at A-Level or a Level 3 Extended Diploma or equivalent. They must also have GCSE English at grade C or above, or an equivalent qualification.
Life experience of mature students will be taken into account when considering applications. The successful completion of an entry task may be required when considering applications without the required formal entry qualifications.
All applicants need an appropriate academic / employment reference.
David Ware
FdSc Wildlife and Conservation Management
David previously worked for the Ministry of Defence as a cartographer, drawing charts of the world’s oceans. He later moved into marketing and business management with the Met Office, then worked in a similar capacity for the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. He left to pursue a career working outdoors.
Q: What do you like about Bishop Burton College?
A: As a mature student, I appreciate the supportive learning environment provided by the College. The tutors and facilities are geared to helping me achieve my best results, so long as I remain committed and take responsibility for my learning. I am encouraged to extend my researches and develop my potential.
Q: What is the best thing about your course?
A: The great thing about my course is that there is a good mix of academic and practical learning. It is far from being classroom-based and there is a heavy slant on both ecology and conservation. You are encouraged to find work placement as part of the course. For me that involved voluntary work at a local nature reserve, where I have been able to hone my practical skills and further develop my knowledge.
Q: What are your hopes for the future?
A: Completion of my degree will allow me to really explore a new career path. If a suitable job is not immediately forthcoming, then I will be able to get so much more from my voluntary work.