School of Applied Sciences and Kingston Maurward
College
FdSc Marine Ecology and Conservation
PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION
Version number: 5
Document date: February 2014
© 2014 Bournemouth University
Document date: February 2014
Circulation: General
Bournemouth University undertakes to encourage the recognition, protection and exploitation
of intellectual property rights generated by participants in this programme, to the benefit, as
appropriate, of students, staff, industrial/other third parties/partners and the university.
School of Applied Sciences
Bournemouth University
Poole
Dorset
BH12 5BB
CONTENTS
BASIC PROGRAMME DATA
4
AIMS OF THE DOCUMENT
5
PROGRESSION ROUTES
6
ACADEMIC AND PROFESSIONAL CONTEXTS
7
AIMS OF THE PROGRAMME
9
INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES
10
LEARNING AND TEACHING STRATEGIES AND METHODS
16
ASSESSMENT STRATEGIES AND METHODS
18
PROGRAMME SKILLS MATRIX
20
WORK-BASED LEARNING (WBL)
22
PROGRAMME DIAGRAM
23
ADMISSIONS REGULATIONS
24
ASSESSMENT REGULATIONS
25
PROGRAMME PROFILE
26
BASIC FRAMEWORK / PROGRAMME DATA
Originating institution(s)
Kingston Maurward College / Bournemouth University
Award(s) and title(s)
Cert HE Marine Ecology and Conservation (Cert HE
MEC)
FdSc Marine Ecology and Conservation (FdSc MEC)
UCAS Programme Code(s) (where
applicable and if known)
F710
HESA JACS (Joint Academic Coding
System) Code(s) per programme/pathway
C120 / C150 / C160 / / C161 / C180 / C181 / C184 /
C350 / D300 / D435 / D447 / F710 / F750 / F751 / F756
External reference points(s)
QAA Quality Code Chapter A1: The National Level
(incorporating the Framework for Higher Education
Qualifications (FHEQ)) and Chapter A2: The subject
and qualification level (incorporating the various subject
benchmark statements and the Foundation Degree
qualification benchmark)
QAA Biosciences Subject Benchmark Statements
Professional, Statutory and Regulatory Body
(PSRB) links
NA
Place(s) of delivery
Kingston Maurward College
Mode(s) of delivery
Full-time / Part-time
Credit structure
Level C 120 credits (60 ECTS)
Level I 120 credits (60 ECTS)
Duration
Full-time: 2 years (max. 4 years)
Part-time: 4 years (max. 6 years)
Date of original approval(s)
August 2008
Date of first intake
September 2014
Student numbers
15 (Min 10 / Max 20)
Placements
250 hours as part of Work Based Learning unit
Partner(s) and model(s)
Kingston Maurward College (Validated Model)
Date and version number of this Programme
Specification
February 2014 Version 4
This Programme Specification was approved in March 2014 following revalidation by Academic
Standards Committee. It takes effect from September 2014 and applies to all new enrolments. In
addition, existing students commencing year 2 in September 2014, will also undertake this new
curriculum but remain under the franchise model.
Approved for presentation to evaluation:
.............................................. …………………………..Deputy Dean (Education) (or equivalent)
AIMS OF THE DOCUMENT
The aims of this document are to:

Define the structure and content of the FdSc Marine Ecology and Conservation
programme;

Specify the programme degree names;

Identify programme and level learning outcomes;

Articulate the regulations governing the awards offered through the programme.
PROGRESSION ROUTES
It is expected that a significant number of successful students from the FdSc in Marine
Ecology and Conservation will wish to continue their studies to a higher level at HE
institutions.
Students who have successfully completed the FdSc Marine Ecology and Conservation will
be eligible to apply for entry with advanced standing to the BSc (Hons) Environmental
Science and the BSc (Hons) Ecology and Wildlife Conservation programmes (offered by
Bournemouth University through the School of Applied Sciences) and credited with 120
credits at Level C and 120 credits at Level I.
In order to take advantage of exciting new approaches to learning and teaching, as well as
developments in industry, the current, approved progression routes for this programme may
be subject to change. Where this happens, students will be informed and supported by the
School as early as possible.
Additionally, Kingston Maurward offers a Top up BSc (Hons) in Animal Behaviour and
Welfare. Students have been able to elect to take this route after the FdSc Marine Ecology
and Conservation since 2008, specialising in the marine field through their Personal Research
Dissertation topic.
The FdSc Marine Ecology and Conservation programme affords a range of transfer
possibilities onto degree courses such as BSc (Hons) Marine Biology, BSc (Hons) Marine
Biology / Zoology and BSc (Hons) Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology.
Examples of other HE institutions and universities offering appropriate Level H progression in
marine ecology / biology include: Aberdeen, Aberystwyth, Bangor, Liverpool, Newcastle,
Plymouth, Portsmouth, Southampton, St. Andrews, Stirling and Swansea universities.
Entry onto these courses will be through the normal channels on the basis of individual
applications, each considered on its merits.
ACADEMIC AND PROFESSIONAL CONTEXTS
The programme will be delivered at Kingston Maurward College in collaboration with
Bournemouth University under the remit of the School of Applied Sciences. The programme
has been designed to maintain the expansion of provision of higher education at Kingston
Maurward College. It will provide progression for existing A-level, BTEC Nationals, City and
Guilds Level 3, Access to HE and mature students into a recognised Foundation Degree to
prepare them for employment in a range of professional contexts within the marine ecological
and conservation industries, locally, within the UK and internationally.
In terms of consistency with Bournemouth University strategic plans, the programme has an
internal progression route to the existing BSc (Hons) Environmental Science and BSc (Hons)
Ecology and Wildlife Conservation programmes offered through the University’s School of
Applied Sciences, thus serving to strengthen existing provision through a partner college.
The importance of marine and coastal conservation is increasing due to a heightened
awareness of the impact of negative anthropogenic effects. Marine conservation is no longer
only an environmental concern but also an economical and political one. However
internationally, there is a shortage of suitably qualified marine conservationists. This is of
particular concern in the county of Dorset and the surrounding area which supports many
habitats, flora and fauna of high conservation importance.
Given the growing importance of marine conservation and the significance of Dorset in the
conservation of coastal / marine habitats and species, there is a continuing need for a Higher
Education programme in marine ecology and conservation in the region. This need has been
identified by local schools, leading experts in conservation and aquaculture and potential
employers.
Both leading specialists in the fields of marine and coastal ecology, conservation and fisheries
science and local employers, continue to offer their support for the programme. They have
been heavily involved in the continued development of the programme, including curriculum
delivery and assessment and their input has been sought as part of the current review.
The proposed Foundation Degree differs from related programmes in that it incorporates four
key elements into the teaching and learning process. These are:

Provision of the necessary theoretical and scientific knowledge to allow students to
gain a critical understanding of the ecological processes that constitute marine and
coastal ecosystems;

Provision of the necessary scientific and practical skills to develop successful careers
in specialist fields of marine and coastal ecology and conservation;

Provision of additional ‘specialist’ skills;

Development of close-working relationships between students and external partners,
allowing access to specialist knowledge, experience and resources.
The inclusion of the above four elements is the main strength of the programme. Their goal is
to distinguish graduates of the proposed foundation degree from those of other marine-related
programmes in order to enhance employment opportunities.
The programme continues to boast a strong vocational context. This includes the
collaborative delivery and development of subject material with organisations with which
contacts are already well-established, such as Coastlink, Sea Life Park and Marine
Sanctuary, Centre for Environment, Fisheries, Aquaculture Science (CEFAS), Dorset Wildlife
Trust, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and the Purbeck Marine Wildlife
Reserve. Both staff and students are actively engaged with several national and international
marine conservation organisations as well as individual employers. Such contacts help to
maintain and enhance the relevance of the qualification and help foster collaborative research
opportunities.
It is envisaged that graduates from the Foundation Degree programme will embark on careers
in the following areas or occupations:






















Aquarists
Local authorities and councils
National and international marine conservation organisations
Marine / coastal ranger services
Coastal partnerships
Government
Environmental consultancies
Fisheries disease
Wildlife rehabilitation
Education and training
Sea fisheries committees
Laboratory technicians in Aquaculture Health and Welfare research institutions
Varied positions within conservation NGOs
District Council animal welfare services (e.g. wildlife / marine rangers / wardens)
Environmental consultants
Managers of wildlife reserves
Managers of animal collections and parks
Managers of aquariums
Lecturers in ecology / wildlife at FE colleges
Conservation project leaders in endangered species conservation
Wildlife surveyors
Research Assistants
Additionally, the programme provides an opportunity for progression to a related higher level
degree at a suitable Higher Education Institution that offers marine ecology / biology degrees.
It is further anticipated that some students will progress to achieve postgraduate qualifications
such as MSc and PhD at other UK institutions.
In summary, the proposed programme will continue to fulfil the local demand for a marine
ecology and conservation based Higher Education course in Dorset and the surrounding
area. Local industry partners in the fields of marine and coastal conservation and fisheries
science continue to demonstrate strong support for the programme and are involved in its
development, delivery and assessment. Strong links with national and international industries
in the fields of marine and coastal ecology, conservation and fisheries science continue to be
fostered and play a pivotal role in the ongoing development and enhancement of the
programme. Potential employers continue to highlight the requirement for high calibre
graduates with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to undertake work in marine
ecology and conservation and view the course as a source of training for their own staff.
AIMS OF THE FRAMEWORK / PROGRAMME(S)
The overall aims of the programme are:

To establish Dorset as a centre of excellence for the training and provision of highly
skilled and experienced marine and coastal conservationists, marine ecologists and
fisheries scientists;

To attract high calibre students with a keen interest in marine and coastal ecology
and conservation;

To use, in a sustainable fashion, the considerable marine resources available within
Dorset;

To maintain and promote the conservation status of the marine and coastal habitats
and species within Dorset;

To produce high quality graduates with the necessary knowledge and practical skills
to develop successful careers in specialist fields of marine and coastal ecology and
conservation;

To provide a direct link between study and employment opportunities within the local
region.
More specifically, the aim of the programme is the development of students who on
completion of the Foundation Degree:

Have a critical understanding of the ecological processes that constitute marine and
coastal ecosystems;

Have the necessary scientific skills, knowledge and practical skills to develop
successful careers in specialist fields of marine and coastal ecology and
conservation;

Can apply these skills to specific conservation issues within marine and coastal
ecosystems and also communicate effectively with both those working in the field of
marine conservation and with the wider public;

Have the ability to carry out independent investigations in the area of marine and
coastal ecology and conservation;

Have transferable management, communication and interpersonal skills that can be
applied within the marine industry;

Are equipped with IT skills;

Have marketable and transferable skills to seek alternative employment in related
industries;

Have the skills and knowledge necessary for further study.
INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES
Overall Programme Outcomes
This programme provides opportunities for students to develop and demonstrate subject
knowledge, understanding and skills, as follows:
Subject knowledge and understanding – students will be able to:
A1
Apply fundamental scientific concepts
A2
Demonstrate a detailed knowledge of a range of marine and coastal ecosystems
A3
Appreciate the diversity of marine life, from an evolutionary, physiological and
behavioural perspective
A4
Appreciate the complex interrelationships between marine organisms and their abiotic
and biotic environments
A5
Develop an awareness of the ecological, economic, cultural, political, and ethical
considerations of conserving marine habitats and species
A6
Identify and analyse the impact of anthropogenic factors on marine and coastal
ecosystems
A7
Discuss the welfare issues associated with conservation and aquaculture
A8
Demonstrate a detailed knowledge of methods for collecting and analysing marine
ecological data
A9
Demonstrate an awareness of sustainable practices in relation to marine and coastal
conservation
Intellectual / Cognitive Skills – students will be able to:
B1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the material taught in the programme
B2
Apply their scientific and technological knowledge in a practical context
B3
Discuss and synthesise information relevant to the programme
B4
Analyse critically published work in the fields of marine ecology and conservation
B5
Define problems, devise, predict and evaluate possible solutions, to solve familiar and
unfamiliar problems
B6
Critically evaluate evidence from a range of sources to support hypotheses and
findings
B7
Express and defend opinions and judgements
B8
Plan, execute and report on a project involving independent research
Subject specific skills – students will be able to:
C1
Identify a range of marine and coastal invertebrate and vertebrate species
C2
Design an appropriate conservation strategy for a given habitat and / or species and
critically evaluate its effectiveness
C3
Effectively manage a conservation project, from design, to implementation, to
monitoring
C4
Identify and safely use appropriate laboratory methods
C5
Undertake a range of practical marine and coastal ecological surveys in a rigorous
and safe manner
C6
Prepare scientific reports and deliver presentations
C7
Make effective use of relevant academic literature and other sources of information
C8
Make effective use of IT and software packages relevant to the programme
C9
Communicate effectively with specialists and the general public
Transferable skills: - students will be able to:
D1
Be independent and reflective learners
D2
Apply psycho-motor skills to the achievement of practical tasks
D3
Demonstrate problem solving skills
D4
Solve numerical problems using appropriate techniques
D5
Apply a range of basic statistical tests to experimental and fieldwork data
D6
Use IT, including word processing, spreadsheets and the World Wide Web
D7
Communicate effectively by oral, visual and written means
D8
Work in collaboration with others, including staff and students
D9
Set and work towards targets for personal, career and academic development
D10
Demonstrate time management skills
D11
Self appraise and evaluate their performance
Intended Level Outcomes: Level I – FdSc Marine Ecology and Conservation
Subject knowledge and understanding – students will be expected to:
A1
Relate an underpinning knowledge of evolution, physiology and behaviour to the
conservation of marine invertebrates and vertebrates
A2
Critically evaluate the effects of environmental, ecological and anthropogenic factors
on marine and coastal invertebrate and vertebrate species
A3
Relate an underpinning knowledge of the key physical processes that create coastal
formations to the cause of vulnerable shorelines
A4
Demonstrate an underpinning knowledge of the organisational and legislative
frameworks that exist to protect marine and coastal habitats and species
A5
Relate an underpinning knowledge of the impact of anthropogenic activities on
marine and coastal species, habitats, and ecosystem processes to marine
biodiversity and the need for conservation
A6
Demonstrate an awareness of the economic, environmental, political and cultural
considerations in marine resource management, including sustainable fishing
practices
A7
Relate an underpinning knowledge of the main management techniques used in
commercial vertebrate and invertebrate aquaculture to species health and welfare
A8
Relate an underpinning knowledge of disease outbreak to monitoring, control and
eradication in commercial aquaculture
Intellectual skills – students will be expected to:
B1
Critically analyse and evaluate a range of information with minimal guidance
B2
Select appropriate techniques of data collection and show the ability to evaluate the
relevance and significance of the data collected
B3
Apply the knowledge and theories taught at level C
B4
Justify their selection of information
B5
Debate ethical issues on a range of conservation and aquaculture practices
B6
Analyse personal strategies that can be applied to managing conservation projects
Subject specific skills – students will be expected to:
C1
Apply a knowledge of phylogeny to the classification and identification of marine
invertebrates and vertebrates
C2
Critically evaluate the impact of environmental, ecological and anthropogenic factors
on marine and coastal species
C3
Design appropriate management strategies for the conservation of a range of coastal
and marine ecosystems and evaluate their effectiveness
C4
Devise appropriate in-situ and ex-situ strategies for the conservation of marine
invertebrates and vertebrates
C5
Design detailed experimental
invertebrates and vertebrates
C6
Identify and investigate a range of coastal formations through field studies
C7
Demonstrate an awareness of methods for diagnosing disease outbreak in
aquaculture systems
and
research
protocols
for
studying marine
Transferable skills – students will be expected to:
D1
Communicate effectively by oral, visual and written means
D2
Use IT, including word processing, PowerPoint, spreadsheets and the World Wide
Web
D3
Be reflective learners and evaluate their performance
D4
Collect, analyse and present statistical and scientific data
D5
Work effectively in teams
D6
Debate and defend their opinion
Intended Level Outcomes: Level C – Cert. HE Marine Ecology and Conservation
Subject knowledge and understanding – students will be expected to have:
A1
An understanding of basic statistical methods, laboratory techniques, report writing,
presentation skills and relevant IT software
A2
An understanding of the concepts underpinning the ecology and diversity of marine
and coastal ecosystems
A3
A detailed understanding of the classification of marine life and ecosystems
A4
A detailed knowledge of the taxonomic diversity of major marine phyla
A5
A detailed knowledge of the underlying principles of animal behaviour and a basic
understanding of behavioural study techniques
A6
An appreciation of ecological systems and environmental principles and their
subsequent application to conservation practices
A7
A fundamental knowledge of the earth sciences in the context of marine and coastal
environmental systems
A8
An awareness of the impact of anthropogenic effects on marine and coastal
environmental systems
A9
A fundamental knowledge and understanding of the legislation and related ethical
issues relevant to conservation
A10
A detailed understanding of the cellular basis of homeostasis in marine species
Intellectual skills – students will be expected to:
B1
Demonstrate the knowledge and understanding of relevant topic material
B2
Recognise the role of conservation organisations and legislation
B3
Demonstrate an awareness of scientific language and methodology
B4
Exercise appropriate judgement in selecting and presenting information
B5
Identify appropriate tests and analyse numerical data
B6
Communicate selected information in a variety of ways
Subject specific skills – students will be expected to:
C1
Develop detailed practical skills in marine ecology and identification
C2
Develop an investigative approach to the significance of biodiversity
C3
Appreciate the importance of environmental impact assessment in relation to
conservation
C4
Develop an investigative approach to the study of homeostatic mechanisms in marine
animals
C5
Observe, record and report on laboratory activity
C6
Apply the principles of geomorphology and oceanography to marine and coastal
conservation
C7
Use laboratory and fieldwork to generate data and use appropriate software
packages to analyse data
C8
Write structured reports
C9
Plan, execute and report on a work placement
Transferable skills – students will be expected to:
D1
Communicate effectively by oral, visual and written means
D2
Use IT including PowerPoint, word processing, spreadsheets and the World Wide
Web
D3
Apply a range of basic statistical tests to experimental and fieldwork data
D4
Become independent and reflective learners
D5
Demonstrate problem solving skills including solving numerical problems using
appropriate techniques
D6
Work in collaboration with others, including staff and students
LEARNING AND TEACHING STRATEGIES AND METHODS
Level I – FdSc Marine Ecology and Conservation
Subject knowledge and understanding
Core knowledge and understanding is acquired through lectures, practical sessions, and
tutorials (A1-A8). There will be frequent industrial visits throughout the year (A2, A5, A6, A7
and A8) which will include visits to local marine reserves, aquaculture facilities and aquaria.
Students will undertake practical fieldwork (A1, A2, A3 and A5) and laboratory (A8) sessions.
Students will also be expected to use published sources to investigate a range of key
concepts (A1-A8).
Intellectual skills
Intellectual skills are acquired through the teaching and learning methods outlined above.
Students are encouraged by academic staff to undertake independent reading and the
College and University support services offer sessions in the use of, for example, library and
study skills.
Subject specific skills
Subject specific skills are acquired through lectures, demonstration, group work and tutorials
(C1-C7). Visits to marine reserves, husbandry facilities, disease-diagnostic facilities,
aquaculture facilities, aquaria and conservation organisations will be undertaken with behindthe-scenes access with wardens, rangers, managers and aquarists (C1, C2, C3, C4, C6 and
C7). There will be many practical sessions in which students will have the opportunity to put
their knowledge into practice (C1, C2, C3, C4, C5 and C6).
Transferrable skills
Transferable skills are developed through the range of teaching and learning strategies
outlined above. Students are encouraged to undertake independent reading and relate this to
the concepts covered in Levels I and C. Regular feedback on assignments in tutorials,
fieldwork, laboratory and practical sessions allow students to develop both their
understanding and the ability to communicate their ideas.
Level C – Cert. HE Marine Ecology and Conservation
Subject knowledge and understanding
Core knowledge and understanding is acquired through lectures, fieldwork, practical
sessions, dissection of post mortem material and tutorials (A1-A10). There will be frequent
industrial visits throughout the year (A2, A3, A4, A6 and A8) which will include visits to local
marine reserves, aquaculture facilities and aquaria. Students will undertake practical
fieldwork (A2, A3, A4, A5, A6 and A7) and laboratory (A10) sessions. Students will also be
expected to use published sources to investigate a range of key concepts (A1-A10).
Intellectual skills
Intellectual skills are acquired through the teaching and learning methods outlined above.
Students are encouraged by academic staff to undertake independent reading and the
College and University support services offer sessions in the use of, for example, library and
study skills. Tutorial sessions in the use of appropriate IT software will be offered if required.
Subject specific skills
Subject specific skills are acquired through lectures, fieldwork, practical sessions,
demonstration, group work, role-play activities, tutorials and work placements (C1-C9). Visits
to marine reserves, husbandry facilities, disease-diagnostic facilities, aquaculture facilities,
aquaria and conservation organisations will be undertaken with behind-the-scenes access
with wardens, rangers, managers and aquarists (C1, C3, C5 and C6). There will be many
practical sessions in which students will have the opportunity to put their knowledge into
practice (C1, C2, C3, C4, C5, C6 and C7). Additional support in the area of library skills is
provided by the learning resource centre staff.
Transferrable skills
Transferable skills are developed through the range of teaching and learning methods
outlined above. Students are encouraged to undertake independent reading and relate this to
the concepts introduced in the Level C units. Regular feedback on assignments in tutorials,
fieldwork, laboratory and practical sessions allow students to develop and communicate their
ideas. IT skills are developed in all of the Level C units.
ASSESSMENT STRATEGIES AND METHODS
Level I – FdSc Marine Ecology and Conservation
Subject knowledge and understanding
The core knowledge is assessed by examination and coursework (A1-A8). Several of the
coursework assignments will be based on case studies (A1, A3, A7 and A8), others will
involve oral presentations (A3, A4, A5, A6, A7 and A8), whilst others will involve the
construction of logbooks based on fieldwork sessions (A1, A2 and A3).
Intellectual skills
Intellectual skills are assessed through unseen examinations (B1, B3, and B5) and reportbased coursework, mostly involving case studies and presentations (B1-B6).
Subject specific skills
Assessment of subject specific skills will include unseen examinations (C1), coursework
assignments (C1-C7), seminar presentations (C2, C3 and C7) and evidence taken from field
study logbooks (C1, C2, C4, C5 and C6).
Transferrable skills
Students are encouraged to be reflective learners. Communication skills are specifically
assessed through seminar presentations (D1, D2 and D6) and group discussion (D1, D5 and
D6). Further assessment will be made on completion of the specialist research project,
examinations and coursework (D1-D4).
Level C – Cert. HE Marine Ecology and Conservation
Subject knowledge and understanding
The core knowledge is assessed by examination and course work (A1-A10). Several of the
coursework assignments will be based on case studies (A5 and A8), others will involve oral
presentations (A5, A6 and A9), whilst others will involve the construction of logbooks based
on fieldwork (A2, A3, A4, A6) or laboratory sessions (A10).
Intellectual skills
The intellectual skills are assessed through in-class tests (B1), unseen examinations (B1, B2,
B3 and B4) and report-based coursework, sometimes involving case studies (B2),
presentations (B1, B3 and B6) and field or laboratory notebooks (B1, B4 and B5).
Subject specific skills
Assessment of subject specific skills will include unseen examinations (C4, C6 and C8),
written coursework assignments (C1, C2, C3, C4, C5, C7 and C8), seminar presentations
(C2, and C9), case studies (C3) and evidence taken from field study (C1, C2, C5 and C7) or
laboratory notebooks (C5 and C7).
Transferrable skills
Effective communication of ideas is an important criterion in the assessment of all student
work (D1, D2 and D6). Other transferable skills are assessed via coursework (D1-D6),
practical sessions (D5 and D6) and group work (D6). Students are encouraged to be
reflective learners, specifically through their work placement report (D4).
Programme Skills Matrix
Matrix table showing the relationship between ILOs for a programme and its constituent units
Programme Intended Learning Outcomes
L
E
V
E
L
Units
A
1
Zoology of Marine Invertebrates
A
2
A
3
A
4
A
5
*
*
*
*
Zoology of Marine Vertebrates
*
*
*
*
Coastal Processes and Geomorphology
*
*
Marine and Coastal Conservation
*
Aquaculture Health and Welfare
*
Marine Ecology Field Course
*
Specialist Research Project
*
*
*
A
6
A
7
A
8
A
9
B
1
B
2
B
3
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
B
4
B
5
B
6
*
B
7
B
8
*
C
1
C
2
C
3
*
*
*
C
4
*
*
*
*
*
C
6
C
7
C
8
C
9
D
1
D
2
D
3
D
4
D
5
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
D
8
D
9
D
1
0
D
6
D
7
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
C
5
D
1
1
*
*
I
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
Study and Research Skills
*
L
E
V
E
L
Introductory Marine Ecology
*
Marine Animal Ecology and Behaviour
*
Marine Environmental Science
*
C
Environmental Marine Animal Physiology
*
Work Based Learning
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
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*
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A - Subject Knowledge & Understanding
C – Subject-specific / Practical Skills
1.
Apply fundamental scientific concepts
1.
Identify a range of marine and coastal invertebrate and vertebrate species
2.
Demonstrate a detailed knowledge of a range of marine and coastal habitats
2.
Design an appropriate conservation strategy for a given habitat and / or species and
critically evaluate its effectiveness
3.
Appreciate the diversity of marine life, from an evolutionary, physiological and behavioural perspective
3.
Effectively manage a conservation project, from design to implementation to monitoring
4.
Appreciate the complex interrelationships between marine organisms and their abiotic and biotic
environments
4.
Identify and use safely appropriate laboratory methods
5.
Develop an awareness of the ecological, economic, cultural, political, and ethical considerations of
conserving marine habitats and species
5.
Undertake a range of practical marine and coastal ecological surveys in a rigorous and
safe manner
6.
Identify and analyse the impact of anthropogenic factors on marine and coastal ecosystems
6.
Prepare scientific reports and deliver presentations
7.
Discuss the welfare issues associated with conservation and aquaculture
7.
Make effective use of relevant academic literature and other sources of information
8.
Demonstrate a detailed knowledge of methods for collecting and analysing marine ecological data
8.
Make effective use of IT and software packages relevant to the programme
9.
Demonstrate an awareness of sustainable practices in relation to marine and coastal conservation
9.
Communicate effectively with specialists and the general public
B - Intellectual Skills
D - Transferable Skills
1.
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the material taught in the programme
1.
Be independent and reflective learners
2.
Apply their scientific and technological knowledge in a practical context
2.
Apply psycho-motor skills to the achievement of practical tasks
3.
Discuss and synthesise information relevant to the programme
3.
Demonstrate problem solving skills
4.
Analyse critically published work in the fields of marine ecology and conservation
4.
Solve numerical problems using appropriate techniques.
5.
Define problems, devise, predict and evaluate possible solutions, to solve familiar and unfamiliar problems
5.
Apply a range of basic statistical tests to experimental and fieldwork data
6.
Critically evaluate evidence from a range of sources to support hypotheses and findings
6.
Use IT including word processing, spreadsheets and the World Wide Web
7.
Express and defend opinions and judgements
7.
Communicate effectively by oral, visual and written means
8.
Plan, execute and report on a project involving independent research
8.
Work in collaboration with others, including staff and students.
9.
Set and work towards targets for personal, career and academic development
10. Demonstrate time management skills
11. Self appraise and evaluate their performance
WORK-BASED LEARNING (WBL) / PLACEMENTS ELEMENTS

Work based learning is considered of crucial importance in the FdSc Marine Ecology
and Conservation.

A total of 250 hours should normally be undertaken during the first year.

Students will be encouraged to undertake work based learning en bloc at centres of
excellence in marine ecology, conservation, coastal management or fisheries science.
These may be in distant locations or abroad, in which case there is provision for them
to work during the summer vacation.

Students may undertake their work based learning at their current work places, if they
receive an appropriate level of training, and providing this does not interfere with their
studies. A workplace mentoring scheme would be organised with the employer under
these circumstances to ensure that suitable developmental learning opportunities are
provided for the student.

Students will attend a series of formal lecture sessions prior to their placements. These
will allow students to develop the necessary knowledge and skills to complete a
successful work placement. Furthermore, tutor guidance and support will be available
throughout the entire process.

Up to three work based learning placements will be acceptable providing all
assessment work is based on the placement of longest duration and that all placements
form valid experiences at a suitable level of responsibility and training.

An agreed job specification will form part of the unit to ensure a beneficial work based
learning placement for both the provider and student and that the employer will
undertake to provide the learner with new experiences and learning opportunities.

Further information can be found in the Work Based Learning Placement Guide which
will be provided for student and employer to follow agreed procedures for the Work
Based Learning unit.

The work based learning is formally assessed in the form of a written report, a reflective
diary and a presentation to fully reflect the importance attached to experiential learning
in the course. A satisfactory report from the work based learning provider is also
required. A visit at the placement(s) by a member of the teaching team may be carried
out but given the growing number of students undertaking overseas placements this is
becoming increasingly difficult.
PROGRAMME DIAGRAM
FdSc Marine Ecology and Conservation
PROGRAMME DIAGRAM
FdSc Marine Ecology and Conservation
Year 2 / Level I
Core units (Compulsory)
Zoology of Marine
Invertebrates (20)
Zoology of Marine
Vertebrates (20)
Marine and Coastal
Conservation (20)
Specialist Research Project
(20)
Option units
Choose 2 of the following:
Coastal Processes and
Geomorphology (20)
Aquaculture Health and
Welfare (20)
Marine Ecology Field Course
(20)
Exit qualification: FdSc
Marine Ecology and
Conservation
Requires 120 Level I credits
and 120 Level C credits
Year 1 / Level C
Core units (Compulsory)
Study and Research Skills (20)
Introductory Marine Ecology (20)
Marine Animal Ecology and Behaviour
(20)
Marine Environmental Science (20)
Environmental Marine Animal
Physiology (20)
Work Based Learning (20)
Progression requirements
Requires 120 credits at Level C
Exit qualification: Cert HE
Marine Ecology and
Conservation
Requires 120 Level C credits
ADMISSION REGULATIONS
The regulations for this programme are the University’s Standard Undergraduate Admission
Regulations.
ASSESSMENT REGULATIONS
The regulations for this programme are the University’s Standard Foundation Degree
Assessment Regulations.
PROGRAMME PROFILE TEMPLATE
Originating
Institution(s): Kingston
Maurward College /
Bournemouth
University
Place(s) of Delivery:
Kingston Maurward
College
Language of
delivery (if not
English):
School: Applied
Sciences
Partner: Kingston
Maurward College
Programme HESA
JACS code: F710
Framework Title (in full): Integrated Animal and Environmental Sciences
Mode(s) of study: PT /
FT
Programme Award and Title: FdSc Marine Ecology and Conservation
Expected Length of
study:
FT = 2 years
PT = 4 years
Interim Award and Titles & required credits:
Cert HE Marine Ecology and Conservation (requires 120 credits at Level C)
Cost Centre(s) 4
Unit identification
Unit
version
no.
2
2
1
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
1
2
Unit name
Study and Research Skills
Introductory Marine Ecology
Marine Animal Ecology and Behaviour
Marine Environmental Science
Environmental Marine Animal
Physiology
Work Based Learning
Zoology of Marine Invertebrates
Zoology of Marine Vertebrates
Coastal Processes and
Geomorphology
Marine and Coastal Conservation
Aquaculture Health and Welfare
Marine Ecology Field Course
Specialist Research Project
HESA
JACS
Subject
Code
X200
C161
C180
F710
F756
CC 1
%
14
14
14
14
14
100
100
100
100
100
X200
C350
C350
F710
14
14
14
14
100
100
100
100
C184
D435
C161
X200
14
14
14
14
100
100
100
100
HESA
JACS
Subject
Code
C120
F750
D447
BU Credit Structure &
ECTS :
Level I 120 (60 ECTS)
Level C 120 (60 ECTS)
Unit Details
CC2
%
Prog
year
FT
Prog
year
PT
Core /
option
No of
credits
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
2
1
Core
Core
Core
Core
Core
20
20
20
20
20
Level
(C,I,H,
PgC,
PgD, M)
C
C
C
C
C
1
2
2
2
2
3
3
4
Core
Core
Core
Option
20
20
20
20
2
2
2
2
3
4
4
4
Core
Option
Option
Core
20
20
20
20
Assessment Regs:
SR
Assessment
Element Weightings
Exam
1
C/Work C/Work
1
2
0
0
40
40
40
100
100
60
60
60
C
I
I
I
0
50
0
0
60
50
50
60
I
I
I
I
0
50
0
0
100
50
100
100
40
50
40
Effective from
Prog Year / Month / Year
Yr. 1
Sept
2014
Yr. 2
Sept
2014
Yr. 3
Yr.4
Contact in School:
(tel no. or generic UG/PG/ programme
specific email)
Date approved:
Name of Professional, Statutory or Regulatory Body (if appropriate):
NA
Programme Specification version
no.: 2
Placement: 250 hours as part of
the Work Based Learning unit
Diploma Supplement Statement regarding PRSB accreditation: NA