Biological Recording PgCert

OVERVIEW

Biological recording is vital for biodiversity conservation. In this period of rapid climate change, the ability to collect, manage and interpret information about our natural world has never been more important. This highly practical course will give you all the skills you need to make a valuable and rewarding contribution in this specialist area.

Developed in association with the Field Studies Council (FSC) and the Botanical Society of Britain and Ireland, this course is largely field-based, as you’d expect with a focus on biological recording and identification skills. You’ll study part-time over a minimum of one (but usually two) years, taking your core theory units at the FSC headquarters in Preston Montford, near Shrewsbury. You’ll add to these with three field-based option units, delivered as weekend courses at FSC centres around the UK.

It’s a highly vocational course that offers an ideal way to sharpen up the field skills you’ll need to take your career in the direction you want. With advanced knowledge of the ‘why’, ‘where’ and ‘how’ of collecting and maintaining biological records of the areas that interest you most, you’ll leave us equipped with the expertise to pursue a rewarding future in a specialist field.

CAREER PROSPECTS

With the high-quality field and record interpretation skills you’ll develop on this course, you’ll be ready to apply for specialist roles in ecology and biological recording. Our former graduates have an excellent record of recruitment and promotion in these fields.

Careers support is available from the moment you join us, and for up to three years after you finish your course. Dedicated careers and employability advisors in the Department of Natural Sciences and the University Careers Service will help you find the role that’s right for you.

You’ll need a UK honours degree – at least a 2:2 – or the international equivalent, in a relevant subject. We might also consider your application if you have several years’ professional or voluntary experience in a related field.