Marine Qualifications Package (with industry placements)

Marine Qualifications Package (with industry placements)

This Course at a Glance

• Develop your knowledge, skills and experience of marine conservation
• Achieve TWO qualifications – a Level 3 Award & Level 3 Diploma
• Includes one-month placement at SEA LIFE Manchester, Weymouth, Hunstanton, or Brighton!
• Includes marine training at the Sussex Dolphin Project near Brighton!
• Start and study at any time
• 360 Guided Learning Hours
• 8 Units

Unlock the Power of Combined Marine Qualifications!

Imagine the possibilities when you combine the comprehensive knowledge and practical skills of two esteemed marine conservation qualifications. Our exclusive package brings together the best of both worlds, offering you an unparalleled opportunity to excel in the field of marine conservation and make a lasting impact on our oceans.

By combining these two exceptional qualifications, you'll harness a synergistic power that goes beyond individual certifications. With a comprehensive understanding of marine ecosystems, research methodologies, conservation efforts, and the interplay between human activities and marine life, you'll be uniquely positioned to drive meaningful change and contribute significantly to the protection and restoration of our precious marine environments.

Don't miss this extraordinary opportunity to unlock your potential and embark on a rewarding journey towards becoming a leading marine conservation professional.

Enrol on our exclusive combined package today and set sail towards a brighter future for our oceans!

Qualification #1: Level 3 Diploma in Marine Biology and Ocean Conservation Studies

If you're passionate about protecting our underwater world and desire a successful career in marine biology and ocean conservation, our Level 3 Diploma is your gateway to success. Delve into the captivating realm of marine biodiversity and explore the intricate interactions between marine life and humanity. Understand the multitude of threats faced by our oceans, seas, and specific marine environments, including the impact of aquaculture and other human activities.

Gain insights into conservation efforts across diverse marine contexts, examining detailed strategies to mitigate the impacts of climate change. This qualification not only enhances your job prospects but also showcases to employers your in-depth knowledge and understanding of marine conservation.

Practical Experience | SEA LIFE

This qualification also includes an optional one-month practical placement at SEA LIFE for learners aged 18 and over. The placement will give you the opportunity to work alongside experienced aquarists in the day-to-day running of the aquarium exhibits. You will gain skills and experience in aquatic animal husbandry, species identification, animal behaviour, life support systems and water quality management to name just a few.

Choose from locations in Manchester, Weymouth, Hunstanton, or Brighton!

Qualification #2: Level 3 Award Marine Conservationist

Ideal for those already working with animals or aspiring to pursue a career in marine conservation, our Marine Conservationist course is designed to equip you with a broad range of essential skills. You'll delve into the intricacies of marine ecosystems, exploring their delicate balance and gaining a deep understanding of marine life.

Discover the latest research methods and monitoring techniques used in the marine environment, and develop expertise in key areas of marine conservation. From comprehending the crucial policies and legislation to honing the invaluable skill of designing, funding, and managing conservation projects, this qualification opens doors to a world of opportunities.

Practical Experience | Sussex Dolphin Project

The qualification includes optional practical training with the Sussex Dolphin Project, Newhaven (near Brighton). You’ll enjoy a day’s training with their research team of marine biologists. The day will be split into a classroom session and a boat-based practical session. This will usually be a morning in the classroom and an afternoon on the water but they swap this around as the tides dictate.

What will you learn?

• About cetacean (whales, dolphins, and porpoises) species local to the Eastern English Channel
• How and why the Sussex Dolphin Project are researching cetaceans in the Eastern English Channel
• An introduction to the equipment we use and how to use it for surveys
• How to collect environmental data
• How to collect behavioural data
• Basic boat safety
• Gain experience working on small boat platforms
• Gain experience working with the equipment at sea
• Learn from our experienced team of marine biologists
• Feed into Sussex Dolphin Project research
• Receive support from Sussex Dolphin Project for a year after the event and the opportunity to go out on our boats as a volunteer research assistant

Details

• Duration: 1 day (10am - 4pm)
• Location: Newhaven, East Sussex. FYI - There is a train station at Newhaven and the journey takes 1 hour and 15 minutes from London via Lewes. In terms of driving, Newhaven is 25 - 30 minutes from Brighton
• Other relevant details: Attendees will need relevant warm clothing for the boat. Even in the warmer weather, it will still be cold at sea
• How many trainees per session: 8 per session, 6 sessions per year. First come, first served

Limitations

• The training will be seasonal (May – September) due to conditions at sea
• Attendees will need to be able-bodied – as there is no disabled access at the marina/boat
• The boat-based sessions will be weather-dependent and may need to be rescheduled if conditions prevent us from going out. However, classroom sessions can be completed regardless if it is useful to complete half of the training on the day
• Session to be booked through learndirect as part of your qualification

Getting Started

learndirect is the UK’s leading online course provider. Our online courses and qualifications give you the flexibility to engage with your studies whenever suits you best.

Whilst studying the Level 3 Award Marine Conservationist and Level 3 Diploma in Marine Biology and Ocean Conservation Studies, you’ll gain essential skills and knowledge regarding a career as a marine conservationist.

The benefit of online learning means that you can plan your studies around your existing commitments. So, you’re able to progress with your learning in a way that works for you, without the stressful balancing act. With no classes to attend or a timetable to stick to, you’re in control of the pace and place of your learning.

What’s more, we have dedicated and experienced online tutors to support you throughout your qualification. As well as all the material being readily available as soon as you enrol so you’re able to start right away.

Modules

Level 3 Diploma Marine Biology and Ocean Conservation Studies (RQF)

Unit 1: Principles of Marine Science: The Oceans

The learner will develop an understanding of the world’s oceans including their properties and locations, the water cycle and water currents. Learners will also develop an understanding of the processes within the seas and oceans, including ocean hazards and natural disasters.

On completion of this unit, you will be able to:

• Understand the location and characteristics of the oceans
• Understand the physical and chemical properties of seawater
• Understand the hydrological cycle
• Understand water currents
• Understand potential ocean hazards and natural disasters

Unit 2: Principles of Marine Science: Biodiversity

Learners will gain knowledge of the characteristics, variety and variability of life in the sea, as well as the different marine environments and how marine life has adapted. The learner will also understand how marine biodiversity interacts with humankind and the importance of this within the field of medicine.

On completion of this unit, you will be able to:

• Understand the biodiversity of marine life
• Understand the aquatic ecosystem
• Understand the characteristics of different types of marine ecosystems
• Understand adaptations of marine species
• Understand how medicines are developed from marine species

Unit 3: Threats to Marine Life

Learners will gain knowledge of how threats to marine life are multiple and can be both naturally occurring and manmade. The learner will understand how storms and hurricanes threaten marine life, the threat posed by changes in pH, and the impact of global warming on marine life. In addition, learners will also understand how plastics, oil and debris affect marine life and how human activities, including fishing, pose a threat to marine species.

On completion of this unit, you will be able to:

• Understand that multiple factors are a threat to marine species
• Understand how storms and hurricanes threaten marine life
• Understand how changes in pH can damage marine life
• Understand how global warming affects the oceans
• Understand how plastics, oil and debris threaten marine life
• Understand how human activities threaten marine life

Unit 4: The Demand for and Impact of Aquaculture

Learners will gain knowledge of the increase in demand for aquaculture, the reasons behind this increase and the different types of aquaculture around the world. In particular, the learner will understand the lifecycle and farming of salmon, as well as how fisheries impact the environment, the fish and the people who eat it.

On completion of this unit, you will be able to:

• Understand the factors which have increased demand for fish as a food
• Understand the variety of aquaculture around the world
• Understand the lifecycle of wild salmon (Salmo salar)
• Understand the conditions and chemicals cultured salmon are exposed to
• Understand how the process of producing fish in fisheries can negatively affect the environment, the health of the fish and the health of the people who eat it

Unit 5: The Impact of Humankind on the Sea, Oceans and Marine Life

Learners will understand how humans impact the sea, oceans and marine life through industrialisation, and about the impact of climate change and the use of fossil fuels. Learners will gain knowledge of how fishing and tourism affect biodiversity, ecosystems and different species. In addition, learners will also consider the impact of marine engineering, freight, transport and the water, gas and oil industries.

On completion of this unit, you will be able to:

• Understand how different human industries impact the oceans
• Understand how human activities contribute to climate change and impact on the oceans
• Understand how different types of tourism lead to changes in sea biodiversity, ecosystems, and water quality
• Understand how different ways of fishing affect marine species
• Understand how marine engineering projects lead to the disruption of ecosystems, pollution and species loss

Unit 6: Principles of Marine Conservation

Learners will gain knowledge of the range of methods used in preserving a variety of ecosystems, including coral reefs, sea grass beds, coastal ecosystems and mangrove swamps. Learners will also examine a variety of methods used to address the impact of climate change on marine environments, including sea warming and extreme weather, as well as develop an understanding of sustainable fishing and how controls can be applied for the prevention and restrictions of oils and plastics entering the sea.

On completion of this unit, you will be able to:

• Understand different methods of preserving ecosystems
• Understand how climate change can be mitigated with respect to acidification
• Understand how climate change can be mitigated with respect to sea warming and extreme weather
• Understand how overfishing and aquaculture can be controlled
• Understand measures to control the release of oils and plastics into the sea

Level 3 Award Marine Conservationist (RQF)

Unit 1: Marine Conservation

Learners will gain knowledge of marine conservation, including multidisciplinary approaches required for its practice, and the intricate connections between terrestrial, river, and estuarine ecosystem health and the marine environment.

On completion of this unit, you will be able to:

• Understand marine conservation
• Know the multidisciplinary approaches necessary for marine conservation
• Understand the links between terrestrial, river, and estuarine ecosystem health and the marine environment

Unit 2: The Marine Environment

Learners will understand the various threats to the marine environment, including the impact of human activities, enabling them to contribute effectively to its protection. They will also gain an understanding of marine conservation legislation, key areas essential for working in marine conservation, and the skills required to establish a successful conservation project.

On completion of this unit, you will be able to:

• Understand threats to the marine environment
• Understand marine conservation legislation
• Know the key areas for working in marine conservation
• Know how to establish a conservation project

Entry Requirements

This qualification is ideal for learners who work in or intend to enter, a marine or ocean conservation-related career. This qualification is intended for learners aged 16 and above. There are other no formal entry requirements for this qualification; however, due to the nature of the qualification content, those undertaking the qualification must have a proficient level of spoken and written English (e.g. GCSE Grade C / Grade 4 or above) or equivalent.

Minimum Age Restriction

16

Average Completion Timeframe

You have 24 months to complete your course.

Assessment Requirements

You will build a portfolio of evidence, clearly demonstrating where you have met the learning outcomes and qualification requirements.

Various types of evidence may be used, for example:

• Essays/assignments
• Short questions and answers
• Workbooks
• Professional discussions
• Observations of Performance in the Workplace
• Product evidence
• Reflective accounts
• Witness testimony
• Records of questioning

Evidence in the portfolio should be mapped against the learning outcomes, reflect the type of evidence supplied and indicate its location within the portfolio.

Practical Placements

This qualification includes an optional practical placement at SEA LIFE for learners aged 18 and over. The placement will give you the opportunity to work alongside experienced aquarists in the day-to-day running of the aquarium exhibits. You will gain skills and experience in aquatic animal husbandry, species identification, animal behaviour, life support systems and water quality management to name just a few.

Choose from SEA LIFE locations in Manchester, Weymouth, Hunstanton, or Brighton!

As part of the programme, you will also have the opportunity to participate in an optional training placement at the Sussex Dolphin Project, located near Brighton. This immersive experience involves a full day of training with their esteemed team of marine biologists, consisting of both classroom and boat-based practical sessions. The schedule may vary depending on tidal conditions, ensuring a well-rounded learning experience.

Certification Timeframe

Learners can expect their certification within 6 months of completing the course, following the (EQA) External Quality Assurance of assessment.

Course Fees

All course fees, inclusive of all payment plans including our Premium Credit Limited option, must be settled before certification can be ordered.

*You will have access to the course for 24 months.

To successfully gain the Level 3 Diploma Marine Biology and Ocean Conservation Studies (RQF), students must achieve 38 credits.

You will build a portfolio of evidence, clearly demonstrating where you have met the learning outcomes and qualification requirements.

Various types of evidence may be used, for example:

• Essays/assignments
• Short questions and answers
• Workbooks
• Professional discussions
• Observations of performance in the workplace
• Product evidence
• Reflective accounts
• Witness testimony
• Records of questioning

Evidence in the portfolio should be mapped against the learning outcomes, reflect the type of evidence supplied and indicate its location within the portfolio.

To successfully gain the Level 3 Award Marine Conservationist (RQF) you will be assessed through a mixture of short and long answer written assessments/assignments.

When are you assessed?

As you are in control of how you learn, you are also in charge of when you complete your assessments.

This enables you to take as long as you need to thoroughly understand the unit before completing any assessments.

Gatehouse Awards

Upon successful completion of this qualification, you will be awarded two qualifications as follows:

• A-Level 3 Diploma in Marine Biology and Ocean Conservation Studies (RQF), an Ofqual regulated qualification (Qualification Number: 610/0262/8)
• A-Level 3 Award Marine Conservationist, an Ofqual regulated qualification (Qualification Number: 610/2575/6)

Gatehouse Awards Ltd is a leading awarding body recognised by the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation, England (Ofqual). They also have a significant international presence providing language testing services.

Completing this Marine Qualifications Package (with industry placements) can lead to a diverse range of career opportunities in both the public and private sectors. Some of the most common career options for someone with qualifications in this subject include:

• Marine Biologist: As a Marine Biologist, you would study marine organisms and ecosystems, examining their behaviour, physiology, and ecology. You might work for government agencies, non-profit organisations, or private companies, studying everything from fish and marine mammals to plankton and coral reefs
• Environmental Consultant: As an Environmental Consultant, you would advise businesses and organisations on how to comply with environmental regulations and reduce their impact on the environment. This might involve conducting environmental assessments, designing pollution prevention programmes, or managing remediation projects
• Oceanographer: As an Oceanographer, you would study physical, chemical, and biological aspects of the ocean, including currents, waves, and tides. You might work for government agencies or research institutions, studying everything from ocean circulation to climate change
• Conservation Scientist: As a Conservation Scientist, you would work to protect and restore natural habitats and ecosystems. This might involve conducting research, designing, and implementing conservation programmes, or working with local communities to promote sustainable practices
• Fisheries Scientist: As a Fisheries Scientist, you would work to manage and conserve fish populations, balancing the needs of Fishermen and other stakeholders with the health of the ecosystem. This might involve conducting research, monitoring fish populations, or advising government agencies on fishing regulations

Overall, taking the Marine Qualifications Package (with industry placements) can lead to a rewarding career working to protect and conserve our oceans and marine environments.

Frequently Asked Questions