The course is made up of 120 credit modules each designed to run over a period of three months. Each module is delivered via comprehensive in-house course material accompanying course guides and web-based support based on the Blackboard™ virtual learning environment (VLE). A number of optional assignments may be submitted by students as the module progresses to give realistic feedback on progress with the material.

There are a number of validated exit points on our distance learning courses:

students who successfully complete 60 credits can opt to leave the programme with a Postgraduate Certificate
students who continue to successfully complete 120 credits can be awarded a Postgraduate Diploma; or
students who successfully complete 120 credits and a research dissertation can be awarded the MSc
(The research dissertation is a substantial piece of work which may take a year to complete.)

It is possible to achieve a Postgraduate Diploma within two years of starting the course or the MSc within three years.

The modules which make up our distance learning courses are also all designed as stand-alone courses in their own right. If you feel you’d rather not take a full MSc you will be able to “mix & match” our learning material to suit your own needs. Indeed your employer may even consider sponsoring you for the purposes of your continuing professional development (CPD).

Key course modules cover the increasing importance of social issues in forest management the complex challenges and multiple benefits of well-managed agroforestry systems and the sustainable use of non-timber forest products. Modules in inventory assessment and monitoring look at other significant issues surrounding the sustainable management of global forest resources. The course also includes a compulsory 14-day study tour to a country with notable tropical forest resources in July August 2021.

Dissertation (If studying towards the MSc)

Execution and written presentation of a suitable scientific project which is devised by the student and an individual academic supervisor and validated by the Programme Director. A suitable project entails a worthwhile scientific question of direct relevance to the degree established within the context of current knowledge and concepts that allows the formulation and testing of one or more hypotheses. This typically involves up to 12 months part-time work typically including: 2–3 months to prepare a research proposal 2–3 months for data collection in the field laboratory or computer; 2–3 months for data analysis; and 2–3 months for writing-up.

Professional Accreditation
This degree is accredited by the Institute of Chartered Foresters (ICF).

Modules for the current academic year
Module listings are for guide purposes only and are subject to change. Find out what our students are currently studying on the Tropical Forestry Modules page.

Course content is for guidance purposes only and may be subject to change.