Introduction to Ecology is a 10-module comprehensive course designed to give you a foundation knowledge of ecological principles. The course is suitable for beginners, but also useful for those with experience in conservation and ecology to gain a deeper understanding of the major topics useful in conservation and ecological consultancy.

Who is the course aimed at?

• Anyone wanting to pursue a career in ecological consultancy or conservation.
• People who want a better understanding of ecological principles.
• Anyone interested in a career in ecology and has a degree in a non-relevant subject (e.g. Geography).
• People who have a relevant degree but have not studied recently and need a refresher course.

Course format: Introduction to Ecology comprises 10 self-study modules. The course material will be available straight away once you have booked and you can work through it in your own time.  To further enhance your knowledge and learning experience there will be some directed reading for each module (you must complete this to ensure you get the most out of the course), as well as some quiz questions so that you can test yourself. At the end, there will be a short quiz and if you get over 70% you will receive a Certificate.

Time commitment: There are 10 self-study modules and we advise students to allow 2-4 hours per week to complete each module and to read around the subject.

Learning outcomes: By the end of the course you will have an awareness of the scientific principles in ecology including biotic and abiotic factors affecting individuals and communities, genetics, speciation, population ecology, communities, ecosystems, conservation, landscape history in the UK, site surveying and habitat management for specific species. You will gain a wider knowledge on the subject that will help equip you for jobs in the conservation and ecology sectors.

Core text: Mackenzie, A., Ball, S. and Virdee, S.R. 2001 Instant Notes – Ecology, Bios
We strongly recommend that you purchase this as soon as you enrol.

Here’s what our students are saying:

I think this course was very broad and was necessary as a starting point for the whole conservation management course I am understanding major topics and their structure. I liked that there was the possibility of zooming in some particular themes and I appreciated the additional resources. An accessible and well-organised introduction to ecology, offering a thorough grounding in core theory alongside resources for further study.

Sofia Sireno

I really enjoyed the different methods of learning provided, via videos, presentations, tables etc. I definitely learn better through various forms of revision so it was great. A great starting point for those looking to get into Ecology!

Adam Teague

The material was presented in a variety of ways, from text to tables to video clips to photographic material. The course was hugely informative and interesting. I liked that most statements were supported by examples, that there was a list of further reading and some interesting challenges. Overall, it was a comprehensive introduction to a very wide topic.

Karin

I found this course very interesting, the depth of information of each module was perfect for an introductory course. I’m looking forward to doing more courses in ecology and conservation!

Caroline Jones

Very interesting course and I learned a lot, was a good mix of different material which kept me engaged

Phoebe

Mixture of teaching methods eg. YouTube, reference reading and quiz questions in each module that forced you to review and consolidate

Hester Wain