This is the only programme in the UK specifically geared towards ecological management of habitats or species within the framework of sustainable development. The programme aims to provide students from biological backgrounds with the skills required in participatory ecological research, research in which local people play an active and equal role. The programme provides a unique opportunity for students to develop a critical appreciation of the integration of ecological, anthropological and sociological approaches to sustainable development. The Roles of Sociological, Anthropological and Ecological Research Techniques in Sustainable Development Ethnoecology Evaluation of the Outcomes of Implementing Sustainable Use Policies Principles and Practice of Ecological Investigation. Continuous assessment of academic progress is made through submission of reports on practical work, essays, case studies and seminars.
Some courses have an examination.
MSc students carry out a research dissertation. Applications are also welcome from candidates with evidence of practice as an ecologist or environmental manager. Such candidates may be required to submit a portfolio which demonstrates their knowledge of fundamental biological and ecological principles. Suitable applicants will be interviewed. The group meets each week and hosts seminars at least fortnightly, given by a mixture of Roehampton staff and external speakers from a range of organisations.