Course Title	Location	Hrs/Wk	Start	Length	Fee
Marine Biology and Ecology BTEC Extended Diploma	Falmouth Marine School (map)	15	02-09-2013	72wks	PLEASE CALL*

Who is this course for?

This course is for those interested in marine biology and environmental issues and wish to study in a hands-on way. The course is based on the nationally available BTEC Extended Diploma in Countryside Management and this will be the title on the certificate. However, most examples, assignments and visits will reflect the marine biological nature of the course.

This course is an alternative to studying 3 A-levels (2 A-levels for Certificate). There are no formal exams on this course, all assessments are coursework-based*. You can start studying marine biology at 16, you do not have to wait until you are 18. There are additional qualifications in numeracy, IT and literacy may also be taken alongside this qualification. These may involve formal exams.

This course is for those wishing to go onto higher education but is also appropriate for those looking to go into employment. The environment industry is competitive but expanding.

Entry requirements

Four grade Cs at GCSE English, Maths and the Sciences or grade Cs at GCSE English and Maths and a Pass grade in a science-based GNVQ or grade Cs at GCSE English and Maths and a Merit grade in at least a BTEC First Certificate in a relevant subject. Mature students will be assessed on qualifications and previous life experience.

What will I be doing on the course?

Falmouth Marine School is widely regarded as the top provider of this course in the UK, with nationally recognised lecturers.
Academic units
Coastal Management, Ecology, Fish Biology, Animal Behaviour and Biology, Aquaculture Systems, Estate Skills and Investigative Projects.
Practical skills training
Marine mammal observation, snorkelling and sub aqua diving, laboratory skills, organism identification, dissection, aquaria installation and management, aquatic habitat assessment and enhancement, small boat handling and fishing, public speaking and presentation, report writing and ecological surveying.
Regular visits
Marine reserves, National Trust sites, coastal and freshwater habitats, public aquaria, fish hatcheries and farms, marine laboratories, universities and colleges.

What can I do after the course?

The Extended Diploma gives you the option of enrolling on our Foundation Degrees in Marine Science or Marine Environmental Management or on a Foundation Degree at another institution. Alternatively if you achieve a good overall grade there is the potential to study for an Honours Degree at another institution. Both routes can lead to employment with councils, environmental agencies and conservation organisations. The environment industry is competitive but expanding.

Progression Routes

• FdSc Marine Science

Additional Information

You will need to have good outdoor clothing available when you are studying in the field or on board our college boats.

* If you are aged 16 -19 courses are usually FREE, however, there are some exceptions e.g. Professional Accredited Courses, Microsoft Academy and some short courses. If you are over 19 you will be expected to pay a course fee, however, you may be eligible for FREE tuition if you are in receipt of certain benefits or it is the first qualification you are undertaking. If you would like someone to explain course fees in more detail, in relation to your own personal circumstances, please call Customer Enquiries on 0845 22 32 567.