MSc Land And Ecological Restoration Degree

Course information

Human activities are responsible for historical and ongoing damage to our planet and the services it performs for us. As the human population grows, so does the imperative not just to mitigate against further deterioration but to actively seek to restore and recover damaged and destroyed habitats to achieve environmental growth. MSc Land and Ecological Restoration aims to develop a holistic understanding of the process of restoring degraded sites and ecosystems. You will learn how to identify restoration priorities, engage stakeholders, plan, implement and monitor programmes of restoration, evaluate the success of activities, and plan aftercare.

The course places a particular emphasis on ecological restoration as ‘the process of assisting the recovery of an ecosystem that has been degraded, damaged, or destroyed.’ You will develop a thorough understanding of the theoretical framework underpinning practical techniques together with the project management and employability competencies necessary to lead and contribute to restoration activities in the UK and abroad.

The course is taught at Cornwall’s iconic Eden Project – a world-famous example of the successful restoration of post-industrial land, located within an area of active China clay extraction in the English county with the greatest proportion of ‘derelict’ land. You will have access to unique facilities at Eden – including Europe’s largest indoor rainforest, constructed soils, laboratories, teaching spaces, IT suite and learning centre and you will benefit from access to facilities at other Cornwall College campuses and at University of Plymouth. There is a large emphasis on fieldwork with visits to local restoration sites varying in scale from small nature reserves, through ongoing restoration by companies and government agencies, to large scale EU funded infrastructure projects that have transformed communities.

During the course and subject to any travel restrictions you will also have the unique opportunity to visit a restoration project abroad. Working with our international partners and the global professional body for ecological restoration, you will meet local practitioners and academics, and contribute to ecological surveys and practical restoration work.

With case studies and live employer briefs you will have ample opportunity to apply your learning and on graduation be well placed to progress to PhD research or enter an international labour market. Key principles and standards developed by professional bodies including the Society for Ecological Restoration (SER) and Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) are embedded in the programme to prepare you for professional recognition.

We accept a variety of qualifications to include equivalent international qualifications. Mature applicants with relevant experience but without the stated qualifications will be considered individually and are encouraged to apply. All applicants are subject to wider entry requirements.

Cornwall College University Centre at the Eden Project offers a diverse range of higher education courses linked to the natural environment, including Horticulture, Plant Science, Soil Science, Ecology, and Garden and Landscape Design. With expert instruction and degrees awarded by the University of Plymouth, our programmes provide the perfect opportunity to gain both academic knowledge and practical skills.

As part of your studies, you’ll benefit from access to the Eden Project’s unique biomes, where you can apply your learning in tropical and Mediterranean environments, as well as outdoor garden settings. You’ll also work alongside Eden’s specialist horticulturists and gain hands-on experience. In your final year, you'll have the opportunity to conduct original research using these exceptional facilities, exploring industry-relevant topics to enhance your CV.

Want to learn more? Join us at our next open event!

What You Will Learn

Core modules:
• Planning and implementing a restoration programme
• Principles and practice of ecological restoration
• Biosecurity and invasive species management
• Postgraduate research methods
• GIS and survey techniques in land restoration
• Wetland ecosystem and riparian zone restoration

Optional modules:
• Science, society and environmental governance
• Investigation and assessment of contaminated environments

Entry Requirements

A good honours degree (minimum 2:2) or equivalent in a relevant discipline. Candidates with experience in a relevant area are also encouraged to apply.

Located at Cornwall’s Eden Project, the University Centre Eden offers a suite of higher education qualifications across a variety of land based sectors to include: Horticulture, Plant Science, Soil Science, Ecology and Garden and Landscape Design. Taught by expert trainers and awarded by the University of Plymouth creates a unique opportunity for those wishing to make the world a better place. Still undecided? Why not enjoy a taste of the University Centre by enrolling on one of our short courses or find out more at our next open day.

Data Sharing Agreement

As part of our interview process, it is essential that we obtain your formal permission to share aspects of your data with trusted work placement providers in order that reasonable adjustments can be made.

Criminal Convictions

You are not required to complete a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check or provide a Certificate of Good Conduct to study this course.

If you are currently subject to any license condition or monitoring restriction that could affect your ability to successfully complete your studies, you will be required to disclose your criminal record. Conditions include, but are not limited to:

• Access to laboratory facilities including chemicals
• Access to computers or devices that can store images
• Use of internet and communication tools/devices
• Curfews
• Freedom of movement
• Contact with people related to University Centre Eden or The Cornwall College Group

Cornwall College University Centre at the Eden Project

Cornwall College University Centre at the Eden Project

In partnership with the Eden Project, we’ve created a unique suite of university-level programmes that align with Eden’s mission to make the world a better place. Delivered by expert trainers from Cornwall College, these programmes are taught within Eden’s unique learning environment, offering students not only an academic education but also practical, hands-on experience at this globally renowned visitor attraction and garden. Our degrees, awarded by the University of Plymouth, provide an unparalleled blend of theory and real-world application. Discover more at our upcoming Open Day!

Find out more about studying with us

Events

Open Event

Duchy College Rosewarne

Open Event at Duchy College Rosewarne

• 18 Jan 25
• 15 May 25

Open Event

Bicton College

Open Event at Bicton College

• 18 Jan 25
• 26 Apr 25