Countryside Management

Could this be the career you've be looking for?
With increasing pressure on the countryside the need to manage this precious resource becomes ever more important.

Countryside Management seeks to marry the sometimes conflicting requirements of rural communities, and recreational users of the countryside whilst conserving the essential qualities that make the countryside such a special place (landscape, conservation, tranquilty.

What do you need to study to be a Countryside Manager?

The breadth of countryside issues that a Countryside Manager needs to understand means that Countryside Management courses include a mixture of environmental and social sciences. As such they offer an exciting alternative to Geography courses for those students who are not yet committed to any one career, as well as those seeking a career in the countryside.

Sounds all very well, but are there any jobs in it?

Yes. The importance of looking after the countryside has generated a variety of careers under the umbrella of Countryside Management. These include Countryside Rangers and Wardens, Access Officers, Conservation Officers, Community Workers, Environmental Interpreters and Educators. Organisations employing such staff include National Parks, the National Trust, Forestry Commission and local authorities. Competition for jobs is high but so too is job satisfaction if you are successful. The right qualification is therefore essential.

What training will you need?

The Welsh Institute of Rural Studies at the University of Wales Aberystwyth, offers two courses in Countryside Management; an HND and a BSc., which combine academic rigour with a strong vocational element. Continuous assessment through assignments is an important feature of both courses. These add realism and relevance and seek to develop transferable skills such as group work, presentation skills and the application of information technology.

HND Countryside Management

This three year vocational course is based on two years study at the university and a one year industrial placement working in a countryside management capacity. The emphasis of the course is on the application of theory to the practical situation, and includes the development of practical estate skills. The course is thus strongly geared to the needs of the employer.

BSc Countryside Management

All three years of this course are based at the University. The first two years of the course offer a firm foundation upon which third year specialisms can be based, including a research dissertation.

Can you start the HND and come out with a BSc?

Yes you can. Progression between the two courses is possible. Students can complete the three year HND course and then if of a suitable standard enter the final year of the BSc. This makes in effect a four year course at the end of which an individual can come away from University with a vocational HND and a BSc in Countryside Management, together with practical skills and a year in employment. This makes an extremely impressive package from which to seek employment.

Am I too old to do this?

You're never too old to study! Both HND and BSc attract a high proportion of 'mature' students who bring a rich background of experience and skills which add significantly to the courses. Places for mature students are considered on an individual basis based upon past experience, knowledge and qualifications.

Interested?

If you are, visit: www.irs.aber.ac.uk/

Author: Ian Keirle, BSc Course Co-ordinator, W.I.RS.

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