RBGE Certificate in Field Botany
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This programme provides students with the basic skills and understanding to conduct botanical field work. This practical certificate is ideal for continuing professional development for early career botanists and ecologists or for keen amateurs. It also forms a core part of the 3rd year practical content in our BSc in Horticulture with Plantsmanship and is also completed as part of our MSc in Biodiversity and Taxonomy of Plants where the focus is on tropical field botany.
RBGE can also deliver this course as continuing development package to botanic gardens, universities or conservation groups worldwide. Please email us education@rbge.org.uk for further details.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- What does the course cover?
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This programme provides students with the basic skills and understanding to conduct botanical field work. Modules cover subjects such as Plant Identification, Information Recording, Habitat Surveying, Field Collection and Applied Field Work.
- When can I start?
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We're currently redeveloping this course and do not have a start date for the next course, however it's unlikely to run before Summer 2024. If you would like to receive details of the next course when they become available, please complete the enquiry form.
- What is the format of the course?
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The RBGE Certificate in Field Botany takes place at RBGE as well surrounding habitats in the local area. It consists of eight one-day modules:
- Plant Identification (CFB-1)
- Preparation for Field Work (CFB-2)
- Information Recording (CFB-3)
- Habitat Surveying (CFB-4)
- Field Collection, Drying & Preserving (CFB-5)
- Applied Field Work 1 (CFB-6)
- Applied Field Work 2 (CFB-7)
- Applied Field Work 3 (CFB-8)
The course is assessed through a mixture of recorded notes and a practical exam. See course handbook for further details.
- Do I need any prior knowledge?
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You do not need prior knowledge or experience to apply for this course. Some physical fitness is required in order to participate during site visits.
- How much does the course cost?
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The cost for the course is £750. Full payment for the course is required on acceptance of a place.
- What do I need?
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Physical fitness: This is a practical course and the later modules will involve walking to field sites and on occasion up to 5 km over rough ground.
You will need to bring:
- Outdoor clothes and footwear appropriate for the weather and location.
- For non-residential courses - Packed lunch. For fieldwork days please make sure you bring plenty to drink (tea and coffee are provided at the centre).
- Hand lenses, notebook and field guides are provided at the start of the course and bring these with you each day along with a supply of pencils.
- Module 3 - Information Recording uses GPS. Some will be available to borrow but please bring your own if you have one
- A shoulder bag is useful to carry equipment identification book etc. in the field. Any additional details for specific courses will be provided on booking.
- How do I apply?
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If you would like to receive details of the next course when they become available, please complete the enquiry form.
*Student Discount
A limited number of discounts will be available on the course for full-time students.