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:

Very good for all round knowledge on ecology and good introduction, a very interesting course to do! I recommend it.

Claire Warren

Really enjoyed the mix of curated video content with text, and the slight editorialising of the text too. It can be hard with so much info out there to know what to click on or where to start. Part of my fee £ for the course was because I hoped I could trust you to curate that info and content for me. I was thankfully right.

Mike Spencer

The Introduction to Ecology course felt like a great starting point for the Certificate in Conservation Management. The content is informative, without overwhelming the reader, and the videos really helped in understanding the concepts. The support from Sue and her team has been brilliant; very inspiring as someone just starting out on their conservation journey. I’ve enjoyed both of the courses I’ve completed with ETUK, particularly as they were manageable around other commitments.

Stuart Hingle

If you’re interested in learning about ecology this is such a fantastic course that takes you from no knowledge through a overview of the key parts of the subject to provide a complete introduction, but its so good it may lead you to want to continue on and study further.

Matthew

A great introduction to the subject, touched on a variety of topics. I feel a lot more comfortable on my ecology knowledge now, thank you!

Caitriona Nolan

A really concise and flexible introduction to ecology for people without a background in the sector. The structure was good – I was able to complete each section in my own time.

Emma Gray