5B009B - Ecological Consultancy 01 Sep 2027 - 31 Aug 2033 | Version 0
Associated Module Information
| Module Code: | 5B009B | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Module Title: | Ecological Consultancy | ||
| Faculty: | Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Science | ||
| Faculty Group: | Applied Science | ||
| Faculty Sub Group: | Biology and Chemistry | ||
| Module Leader: | Emma Higgins | ||
| Module Team: | |||
| First Intended Intake: | SEP 2027 | Final Year of Intake: | 2032 |
| Date Closed: | |||
| Credit Value: | 30 | Credit Level: | 5 |
| Language: | English | ||
| Percentage of Module Taught in Welsh: | 33 | ||
| Equivalent Module: | |||
| HECOS codes: | 101318 - biodiversity conservation | ||
| HECOS Code Weighting: | 100 | ||
Document Version Information
| Version | 0 |
|---|---|
| Valid From | 01 Sep 2027 |
| Valid To | 31 Aug 2033 |
Module Aims
The main aims of the module are:
Aim 1: Develop a deep understanding of the conservation and ecological importance of selected UK species and habitats and accompanying environmental legislation and policy.
Aim 2: Gain practical experience of relevant survey and assessment techniques, both desk and field-based, and applied these to evaluating species, habitats, and sites of conservation importance.
Aim 3: Manage and communicated the outputs of ecological projects in a professional manner and to industry standard and be capable of applying these to a range of scenarios.
Content Summary
This module provides an applied, industry-focused introduction to ecological consultancy, equipping students with the knowledge, practical skills, and professional competencies required to operate within the UK environmental sector. Students will engage with the full consultancy cycle, including ecological legislation, planning processes, biological records acquisition, habitat and species survey techniques, and the production of professional-standard outputs.
Through a combination of fieldwork, digital analysis (e.g. GIS), and authentic consultancy scenarios, learners will develop the ability to assess ecological value, interpret environmental data, and formulate evidence-based recommendations aligned with policy and best practice. The module is research-informed and industry-relevant, drawing upon current guidance such as CIEEM standards and Biodiversity Net Gain frameworks.
Emphasis is placed on experiential learning, professional communication, and sustainable decision-making, enabling students to critically evaluate ecological impacts and propose mitigation, compensation, and enhancement strategies. The module contributes directly to employability by simulating real-world consultancy workflows and fostering autonomy, ethical awareness, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Learning and Teaching Methods
| Activity Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Workshop | 36 |
| FieldWork | 20 |
| Summative Assessment | 60 |
| Directed Study | 72 |
| Guided Learning | 10.5 |
| Formative Assessment | 30 |
| Independent Study | 71.5 |
| Total Hours Selected | 300 |
Learning Outcomes
| # | Learning Outcome |
|---|---|
| LO1 | Identify the ecology and conservation importance of key species and habitats and defend these values alongside environmental and conservation policy and legislation through industry-standard outputs. |
| LO2 | Demonstrate practical experience and application of selected ecological survey and assessment techniques in a range of wildlife evaluation settings and apply these to professional practice. |
Module Requisites
N/A
Assessment Criteria
| Assessment Category | Assessment Type | Description | Duration | Word Count | Weight (%) | Best of? | Pass Mark |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asynchronous Assessment | Practical Written Work | This assessment enables students to demonstrate their ability to collect, analyse, and interpret ecological data derived from field surveys, integrating technical skills with scientific understanding | 0 | 3600 | 60 | No | 40 |
| Asynchronous Assessment | Student Choice 1 | Students produce a podcast or short video that translates complex ecological concepts, survey findings, or conservation issues into accessible formats. This reflects real-world demands within the sector, where professionals must engage stakeholders including clients, planners, NGOs, and the public. | 18 | N/A | 40 | No | 40 |
Assessment Matrix
| Assessment Type | Learning Outcomes | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| LO1 | LO2 | ||
| Practical Written Work | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Student Choice 1 | ✔ | ✔ | |