MSc Ecological Restoration and Environmental Management University

The MSc may be taken as full-time (September to August over one year); part-time (over two years)

The programme may also be taken as blended learning over two years. Classes are online one afternoon, with four study weekends at the Eden Project and one weekend online.

•Planning & implementing a restoration programme: In this module, you will explore how restoration projects move from vision to action. You define clear ecological objectives, consider environmental and regulatory contexts, and learn how to plan, manage and deliver projects effectively. Through workshops and case studies, you will develop key skills in project design, coordination and environmental appraisal.

• Terrestrial Ecology: This module develops knowledge and skills for terrestrial ecosystem restoration, focusing on habitat recovery, biodiversity, and ecosystem function. Students examine restoration practices, habitat management, and industry approaches through theory and case studies, with an emphasis on land-use impacts, evidence-based interventions, and threats such as climate change, invasive species, and land-use pressures.

• GIS and Remote Sensing: This module explores the use of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing in ecology. It highlights the need for accurate baseline data on the physical environment, incorporating biotic and abiotic factors, including remotely sensed data. Learners will conduct monitoring to assess progress against objectives and develop GIS datasets by integrating information from multiple sources.

• Postgraduate Research Skills: The module builds research and communication skills for postgraduates undertaking hypothesis-led projects in their field. It covers research philosophy, design, analysis, ethics, management, and effective communication, providing guidance on career development and presentation skills.

• Aquatic & Wetland Restoration: Wetland ecosystems and riparian zones include a range of naturally biodiverse and globally important habitat types that continue to experience degradation due to the activities of humans. This module reviews threats to habitats within these ecosystems and the effectiveness of practical techniques for restoring the structure, function, and resilience of habitats.

• Work Placement: Building on at least 120 hours of work-based experience with ecological restoration or environmental management practitioners, students reflect critically on their skills, behaviours and sector knowledge. Using professional standards to guide their evaluation, students will produce a development plan for future career or academic progression.

• Surveying in the Natural Environment: Explore the natural world through hands-on surveying of habitats, species, soils and landforms. You will develop essential field and lab skills, from identifying protected species to interpreting soils and geodiversity. This practical module builds your confidence in reading landscapes and understanding the systems that shape them.

• Dissertation: This module facilitates detailed planning and undertaking of original research, data analysis, and synthesis of results while allowing reflection and independent thought in collaboration with the project supervisor. Students will then submit the report in accordance with agreed-upon conventions.

Please note that those studying in person must choose between the Aquatic & Wetland Restoration and the Work Placement modules, as these are optional modules. For those who are studying remotely through blended learning, these modules are mandatory. Meanwhile, the Surveying in the Natural Environment module is not available for the blended learning study mode.