Environmental Science Diploma Level 3
 
Course Synopsis
This OLQA Quality Assured Level 3 Diploma course is designed to appeal to those who wish to develop a sound knowledge of environmental science, and will provide a basis on which to study other environmental science related topics. It will also be suitable for those who have a personal interest in the subject. Although no prior knowledge is required in order to study this course, a basic knowledge and understanding of terminology, formulae and processes is assumed.

The course is divided into ten modules, each with an associated assignment. Following completion of all ten modules, students will be required to complete an online examination.

Module Titles and Content
Module 1: Conditions for Life on Earth and Wildlife Conservation
This is the module that sets the scene for subsequent modules and will form the basis of the course. Students will look at what conditions need to exist on our planet in order to sustain life. The concepts and processes of wildlife conservation are discussed and linked to sustainment of human existence.

Module 2: Life Processes and the biosphere
This module explores the concepts of species and environments. We consider succession and what this means in terms of environmental influences. In addition populations will be discussed, particularly concentrating on evolutionary processes within these groups and how different external environmental influences impact these. We will look at issues surrounding mortality and how to explore various statistics that impart information about this process. We will also look at basic statistical processes within environmental science.

Module 3: Land Resources
Without land and its resources, no life would be sustained. In this module we look at how landscapes can be conserved and management of habitats relevant to the environment and sustainability of resources. We also look at intervention programmes and how effective these are. In addition conflicts within the conservation paradigm are examined and discussion about various resolution processes explored.

Module 4: The Atmosphere
What occurs in the earth's atmosphere is just as important as what we do on land. In this module the composition of the atmospheric layers are discussed and also how different organisms survive within these layers. In addition we look at contamination issues and the characteristics of radiation, together with the implications for global climate changes. The module also discusses various interventions and resolution theories.

Module 5: The Hydrosphere
This module is mainly concerned with the properties and role of water within the hydrospheric layer. We will examine and discuss the composition of the layer and look at the hydrological cycle, with relevance to sustaining species.

In addition we will consider water as a resource and how this resource is managed. Discussion of water treatment programmes will be presented, together with different techniques, processes and implications, paying particular attention to fulfilling demands.

Module 6: The Lithosphere
This layer is concerned with rocks, minerals and elements and the module will discuss distribution and availability of these components. There will be discussion of soil composition, fossil fuels and general geological processes.

In addition we will examine resource reserves and conservation relevant to this group, and look at how demands are met and managed. The module will also look at various key cycles, for example the carbon cycle.

Module 7: Energy
Essential to life and crucial to sustainability we look at factors affecting energy generation and use. This module will also discuss and compare renewable and non-renewable energy sources, looking at the pros and cons for both.

The storage of energy is a topical issue and this will be looked at in detail, together with how the demands and limitations are managed in the face of global energy crises. We will also consider energy conservation programmes, together with industry and consumer issues relating to energy production, use and conservation.

Module 8: Pollution
In this module we will define and describe the different types of pollution, also looking at how it impacts climate change and the way we exist. We will consider the different methods of pollution control, weighing up the pros and cons for examples and relating them to energy production, use and also the effects on the atmospheric layers of the earth.

Module 9: Human Populations and Food Production Systems
Changes in population affect every area of life but this module specifically considers these changes relating to food production and how food production practises change to accommodate varying needs. In addition, climate changes affect agricultural techniques and output; these are considered as well.

We will also look at the demands and available resources, together with considering the environmental impact of farming methods. In addition we will examine various controls relevant to food production and the economic and political factors involved.

The nutritional aspects of population demands are important and this module will discuss these issues in depth, together with maintaining sustainability.

Module 10: Forestry and Sustainability
In this module we look at forestry as a resource and how we can manage and sustain this vital resource, particularly in the face of environmental change.

We look at deforestation and consider its impacts on the environment and different species.

The module looks at lifestyle impacts and demands, together with consideration of various political and economic factors.

Entry Requirements
All students must per 16 years of age and above.

Study Hours
Approximately 40 hours per unit

Assessment Method
Final online multiple choice examination.

Please note that you can enrol on this course at anytime.

Award
Level 3 Diploma in Environmental Science

This course is Quality Assured by OLQA
 
Additional Information
This is a dual certification course. You will receive a certificate from both the College and also the National Awarding body OLQA. Fees for both are included in the course fee.

The course can be enrolled upon by students Internationally. There are no deadlines for enrolments.

What's Included
All study materials to enable the student to successfully complete the Diploma. Support is provided by the tutor department. Examination board certification upon completion. All examination fees.

Further Information

The Quality Assured Diploma is a Level 3 equivalent on the National Qualifications Framework. The Diploma is a 1 year course which is self study and is examined by online examination. The Diploma is awarded by Oxford College and Quality Assured by OLQA who are a highly recognised National awarding body. Upon completion of the course you will receive dual certification awarded by Oxford College and OLQA.

Your course is delivered online via the Oxford Learning On Campus website.

Please note that included in your course fee is your registration to the On Campus student community, and a licence to print your study materials. Please note that the licence is for one print only, so please ensure that you have enough paper and ink to print the full course materials if required.

You will require having one of the following packages to access your On Campus area:

Windows: Windows 98, 2000, XP, Vista - Acrobat Reader 4.0 and above
Macintosh: Mac OS X, Mac OS 9.2 - Acrobat Reader 4.0 and above
In the student 'On Campus' you are also able to take part in the student chat room and forums as part of our online student community.

After enrolling online you will receive your username and password to access the On Campus area within 5 working days. You will also receive your personal Oxford Learning student number via email.