BSc (Hons) Wildlife and Countryside Management (Top-up)

Program Overview

This one-year (full-time) or two-year (part-time) BSc (Hons) Wildlife and Countryside Management (Top-up) program equips students with the knowledge and skills to become effective wildlife and countryside managers. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in conservation, ecological consulting, and other related fields.

Program Outline

BSc (Hons) Wildlife and Countryside Management (Top-up)

Degree Overview

This one-year, full-time (or two-year, part-time) program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to become effective wildlife and countryside managers. It focuses on the development of a holistic understanding of the field, covering aspects like climate change, ecosystem services, and protected species surveys. The program is specifically designed with input from industry experts and employers to ensure its graduates are well-prepared for career opportunities in the field.

Outline

The program consists of three core modules, a research project, and two elective modules chosen by the student. Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, projects, visits, and demonstrations. Assessments are primarily through coursework, with occasional timed assessments for specific subjects.

Core modules:

• Countryside & Environmental Management: Examines the scale and rate of change in the countryside/land management sector.
• Ecological Consultancy: Explores the roles and responsibilities of ecological consultants, including professional and regulatory frameworks.
• Research Project / Dissertation: Develops a detailed research proposal, conducting research, and creating new information.
• Wildlife Behaviour & Evolution: Explores the fundamental principles of animal evolution.

Elective Modules (choose two):

• Heritage Property: Explores key concepts in heritage decisions, including statements of significance and conservation management planning.
• Forestry and Woodland Management: Investigates the significance of forestry in climate change mitigation, timber production, and farm diversification.
• Climate Chance and Natural Resource Challenges: Analyzes the impact of climate change on natural resources like water, soil, and biodiversity.
• Technology and Agroecological Innovations: Explores the role of technology, innovation, and agroecology in addressing sustainability challenges on farms and throughout the supply chain.
• Specialist Study (Shell module): Conducts a self-directed study within a chosen specialist area.
• Sustainable Farm Management: Creates a farm system aligned with a specific agricultural approach.
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for the Environment: Explores the different forms of remote sensing techniques and their utility in environmental management.
• Advocacy and Activism in Food and Farming: Critically evaluates the roles of industry, government, and civil society groups in changing food and farming policies and practices.
• If already employed, students may choose the "Improving Personal Professional Practice" module, reducing the time required for campus-based modules.
• Availability of electives depends on individual student selection and timetabling considerations.

Assessment

Assessments are primarily through coursework, with occasional timed assessments for specific topics. Coursework may include professional practice reports, case study evaluations, grant applications, oral presentations, team activities, literature reviews, essays, and academic posters. The research project or dissertation is a significant component of the assessment.

Teaching

The program is delivered by research-active lecturers and industry experts, ensuring students receive up-to-date knowledge and practical skills. Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, projects, visits, and demonstrations. Students are encouraged to participate actively and engage in discussions.

Careers

Graduates of this program have secured positions in various organizations, including:

• Conservation/biodiversity officer
• Ecological consultant/surveyor
• Reserve ranger
• Agri-environment manager
• Habitat and landscape project officer

UK International Full-time £9,250 per year £15,300 per year