FdSc Marine Ecology and Conservation

Subject Area: Course code: Course Type:
Animal Welfare & Science AC078A01/23/2 Higher Education

Course Information

In recent years the impact of human activities on marine and coastal environments has been increasingly highlighted by the media and scientists across the globe. The study of marine and coastal habitats is still an emerging science that shows us we have much to learn about the Earth and how we affect it by the way we live our lives.

This two year foundation degree allows you to learn detailed, current knowledge of marine and coastal ecosystems, from the organisms that live in these environments to the processes that shape our coastlines. It also offers opportunities to learn practical skills to investigate marine and coastal ecosystems and apply that knowledge to conserve these resources sustainably. The course considers the impact of key activities such as fisheries, aquaculture and coastal erosion and looks into how change may be possible to meet the demands of the future whilst limiting their impact.

Offering both subject learning and practical skills it provides opportunities for work and further study in the management of marine and coastal resources. Studied full time the course requires 3 days per week attendance at Kingston Maurward College and includes a 150 hour industry placement prior to starting year two. The course is presented through a combination of lectures, discussions, assignments, practical activities, visiting guest speakers, specialist visits and work experience. Students can also expect to attend a study tour.

Overview

Qualification
  • Foundation Degree in Marine Ecology and Conservation
Course Content
  • Year One (Level 4)
    Study and Research Skills.
    Introduction to Marine Habitats.
    Principles of Marine Animal Ecology and Behaviour.
    Marine Environmental Science.
    Environmental Marine Animal Physiology.
    Work Based Learning

    Year Two (Level 5)
    Zoology of Marine Invertebrates.
    Zoology of Marine Vertebrates.
    Coastal Processes and Geomorphology (Option Unit).
    Marine and Coastal Conservation.
    Marine Animal Health and Welfare (Option Unit).
    Field Study Tour (Option Unit).
    Specialist Research Project.
Entry Requirements
  • A minimum of 48 new UCAS tariff points. Normally one A Level in a Biological /Environmental Science or Geography plus other subjects to complete total points, or an average PPP at Level 3 City & Guilds Advanced Technical Extended Diploma (1080) in Animal Management or Countryside Management (or MM in Level 3 Advanced Technical Extended Diploma (720)). Four GCSEs in Maths, English (grade 4/5 or above) are required.

    Mature entry is actively encouraged and relevant work experience will be considered in place of formal qualifications, but Access to HE courses in Science are highly recommended. International students required to meet IELTS (Academic) 6.0 or above (with minimum 5.5 in each component)
Next Steps
  • Students can progress to a BSc (Hons) Marine Ecology and Conservation top-up course at Bournemouth University, that is also partly taught at Kingston Maurward.
Career Opportunities
  • This qualification offers excellent employment opportunities in the areas of marine conservation organisations, aquaria, fish health and disease, and marine conservation education. Graduates have progessed onto postgraduate study at Master’s level with Bournemouth University, as well as key roles with local and national organisations such as Dorset Wildlife Trust and RSPB.

Dates & Fees

Dates & Times
Start date: End date: Start time: End time:
18-Sep-2023 (Already Started) 30-Jul-2025 10.00am 4.00pm
Attendance
Mode of attendance
Full Time
Timetable
Day of the week Number of sessions
Mon, Tues, Wed
Course Fees

Students on this course are normally eligible for a student loan depending on their circumstances.
There will be an additional cost towards industry visits and study tours.Study tour at Level 5 estimated cost c£275Day tours costs c£5-£15Scuba diving if required c£350 to £400There are opportunities for other enrichment activities such as Kayaking and ATV driving with reduced course fees as appropriate.

Materials Required

Water proof clothing, sturdy walking boots and wellington boots, laboratory coat and protective overalls/clothing. Students are advised to have a wetsuit, wet shoes and wetsuit glovesfield work may present opportunity for snorkelling.

What's next?

Applications for this course are now closed. If you'd like to know when there will be another or need more information we are happy to answer any questions.