Taught course

Applied Ecology MSc/PgDip/PgCert

Institution
University of Gloucestershire · School of Natural, Social and Sport Sciences
Qualifications
MScPGDipPGCert

Entry requirements

  • At least a 2.2 honours degree or equivalent.
  • Applicants with substantial relevant work experience may be considered without a degree qualification.
  • We particularly welcome applicants with qualifications or experience in areas such as biology, animal biology, ecology, zoology, geography or environmental sciences.
  • EU and international students need IELTS 6.0 overall (no less than 5.5 in any band) or equivalent.

Months of entry

September

Course content

On this course you’ll gain the knowledge and skills you need for a career in practical ecology and conservation – we have a highly practical emphasis with hands-on exercises in field and laboratory being embedded throughout the course

In the field you’ll learn identification skills for a wide range of species, as well as industry-standard survey techniques like Phase 1 Habitat Surveying, habitat condition assessments, National Vegetation Classification and techniques for monitoring a wide range of fauna including birds, mammals, and invertebrates. In the lab you’ll study taxonomy through microscopy and perform analysis of environmental parameters such as oxygen levels and nutrient status to enable better understanding of species-environment interactions. We also offer modules that allow you to set applied ecology in broader contexts – this includes practical training in Geographical Information Systems, understanding environmental policy and legislation, and learning how to harness the power of citizen science within ecological contexts.

There is considerable optionality in the course, both in choice of modules and in assessment topics within modules, allowing students to tailor course content to their own interests and career aspirations.

Study style

The course is block-taught two days a week (currently Thursdays and Fridays). Assessment is exclusively through coursework, with an emphasis on field and laboratory research and consultancy reports – often involving live project briefs from external partners. Your assignments will improve understanding of ecological monitoring, management and conservation and, in many cases, will have direct and immediate practical relevance.

Industry links

You’ll put your academic theory into practice by working on projects with organisations we’re connected to – including the Royal Society of Biology, Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust, The Mammal Society, Natural England, BirdLife International and the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology.

As a CHES-accredited course, you can also apply for free student membership of the Institution of Environmental Sciences and for a fast-track route to membership once you graduate – starting you on a route towards becoming a Chartered Environmentalist or Chartered Scientist.

Fees and funding

Learn more at out postgraduate fees, loans and finance page.

Qualification, course duration and attendance options

  • MSc
    part time
    28 months
    • Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
    full time
    16 months
    • Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
  • PGDip
    part time
    24 months
    • Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
    full time
    12 months
    • Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
  • PGCert
    part time
    12 months
    • Campus-based learningis available for this qualification

Course contact details

Name
Enquiries
Email
enquiries@glos.ac.uk
Phone
+44 (0)3330 141414