Online
£180.00
20 hours
11 modules
Introductory
Purchase this course

We have designed this comprehensive 10-module course to give you foundation knowledge of ecological principles and it covers a range of useful topics needed for ecology careers including consultancy and conservation. You will be guided to further reading and, where relevant, will get suitable web links to explore. At the end of each module are quiz questions for you to complete.

Who is the course aimed at?

  • People who want to pursue a career in ecological consultancy or conservation.
  • People who want a better understanding of ecological principles.
  • People interested in a career in ecology who have 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: The 10 self-study modules will be available straight away once you have booked so you can work through these in your own time.  To further enhance your knowledge and learning experience there will be some directed reading for each module (it is essential you 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.

Courses modules:

Module 1

What is Ecology?

Module 2

Diversity and Classification

Module 3

Abiotic Interactions and World ecosystems

Module 4

Biotic Interactions and Behavioural Ecology

Module 5

Evolution and Genetics

Module 6

Population Ecology

Module 7

Communities and Ecosystems

Module 8

Species and Habitat Conservation

Module 9

History of the British Countryside

Module 10

Surveying and Habitat Management

Module 11

Introduction to Ecology END OF COURSE QUIZ

Here’s what our students are saying:

I am new to ecology and found the course easy to access, understand and take in. It is not too long and gives plenty of option for further or deeper reading if wanted. A good introduction to the subject for me with ongoing ability to return and reread or pick up further reading.
Matthew
Not too long so easier to digest
Matthew
The introduction to ecology has given me a strong baseline that I can take forth with me into the rest of the certification. Meeting Sue and fellow students has given me confidence, expanded my horizons and made me feel for once in my life that I can make a difference and that there is a career for me.
Rhiz Myers
Great explanations and case studies always recommendations for further reading. I liked being given a baseline and having it expanded upon, great for accessibility.
Rhiz Myers
Excellent course which has helped to build upon learning from other courses. Perfect for beginners or as a revision guide.
Jessica
Excellent course that provides you with a great knowledge base.
Jessica

FAQs

If you are purchasing a course/s on behalf of another person, please follow these steps to ensure they can access their course/s:

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If you do not provide this here or email us with this information, the student will not have access to their course/s.

If you have any problems with this process, please get in touch – [email protected] or 03301653024.

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  1. Add the correct number of courses for all the students you are purchasing for. (example: If three people need to take Mammal ID, add it to basket three times)

If you would prefer to purchase via invoice (popular for companies), we are able to arrange this! Use the Email Address below to get in touch.

2. Once purchased, contact us directly to let us know the Full Names and Email Addresses for each of the students you have bought for.

If you have any problems with this process, please get in touch – [email protected] or 03301653024.

The final exam is designed to test whether you have learned the appropriate knowledge and skills during this course. If you take the final exam and do not pass, we encourage you to review the course material and ensure you have read, understood and remembered the lessons. We want you to get the most out of this course and provide you with the knowledge and confidence you need to apply what you learn to your job or career. You may retake the final test once you have revisited the course material.

Yes! We want you to get as much out of this course as possible. We encourage you to refer back to your course materials from time to time to refresh your memory and ensure that you are confident on the subject. Therefore, when you purchase this course, you will have lifetime access to the course materials.