Geography, ecology, environment

Introduction to GIS

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are widely used across environmental management, planning, and infrastructure to analyse spatial data and support decision-making.

This intensive one-week, 20-credit course introduces the core principles and practical skills needed to work with GIS. Using industry-standard software, you will learn to manage spatial data, perform basic analysis, and produce clear, professional maps using real-world datasets.

Through hands-on sessions, you will explore key techniques including querying, geoprocessing and spatial analysis, building confidence in applying GIS workflows to real problems.

By the end of the course, you will have developed a practical foundation in GIS and transferable digital skills that can be applied immediately in professional and academic contexts.

The module is linked to our Geographical Information Systems and Environmental Management MSc programme.

Entry requirements

No prior experience of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is required, as this course is designed for beginners.

Applicants will normally hold a degree in a relevant subject such as geography, environmental science, planning, engineering, computing or a related discipline. We also welcome applications from individuals with qualifications in other subject areas, or from those without a degree.

Relevant professional experience, along with confidence in day-to-day computing (eg file management and use of standard software such as Excel), will be considered and should be outlined in the application. An interest in maps, spatial data or environmental applications will support successful engagement with the course.

How to apply

You can apply online for this module.

Once you have created an account select ‘Single Modules and CPD courses’ > School of Applied Sciences Single Modules (Postgraduate).

Water Quality Assessment and Management

Water quality is central to environmental sustainability, public health and regulatory compliance. This intensive 20-credit, one-week short course provides a practical introduction to assessing and managing water quality in real-world contexts

Through fieldwork, laboratory analysis and applied workshops, you will gain hands-on experience in biological, chemical and microbial water quality assessment. You will explore how water quality is monitored, interpreted and managed across sectors, including drinking water supply, environmental regulation and bathing waters.

You will also develop an understanding of risk assessment approaches, water safety planning and emerging management strategies such as nature-based solutions and treatment technologies.

By the end of the course, you will have a practical understanding of water quality assessment techniques and the skills to interpret data and support decision-making in environmental and water management contexts. The module is linked to our Water and Environmental Management MSc programme. 

Entry requirements

No prior specialist experience in water quality assessment is required for this course.

Applicants will normally hold a degree in a relevant subject such as environmental science, geography, ecology, biology, chemistry, engineering or a related discipline. However, applications are also welcomed from individuals with qualifications in other subject areas, or from those without a degree.

Relevant professional experience in areas such as environmental management, the water sector, laboratory work or related fields will be considered and should be outlined in the application.

A basic understanding of scientific principles and confidence in day-to-day computing and data handling will support successful engagement with the course, particularly for fieldwork, laboratory analysis and interpretation of water quality data.

How to apply

You can apply online for this module.

Once you have created an account select ‘Single Modules and CPD courses’ > School of Applied Sciences Single Modules (Postgraduate).

Water Recycling Technology

Water recycling is becoming an essential solution to increasing water scarcity and environmental pressures. This intensive one-week, 20 credit short course introduces the principles and technologies used to treat and reuse water safely and sustainably.

You will explore conventional wastewater treatment alongside advanced recycling technologies, including membrane processes, disinfection methods, and emerging innovations. Through applied sessions, you will examine how treatment systems are designed, evaluated, and selected based on water quality, regulatory standards, and operational constraints.

The course also considers the wider environmental and economic implications of water reuse, including sustainability, carbon accounting, and the role of recycling in future water resource management.

By the end of the course, you will have a practical understanding of water recycling technologies and the skills to evaluate and propose treatment solutions in real-world contexts. The module is linked to our Water and Environmental Management MSc programme.

Entry requirements

No prior specialist experience in water recycling technology is required for this course.

Applicants will normally hold a degree in a relevant subject such as environmental science, geography, chemistry, engineering or a related discipline. However, applications are also welcomed from individuals with qualifications in other subject areas, or from those without a degree.

Relevant professional experience in areas such as water or wastewater treatment, engineering, environmental management or related sectors will be considered and should be outlined in the application.

A basic understanding of scientific principles and numeracy will support successful engagement with the course, particularly when exploring treatment processes, system design, and evaluation of technology performance.

How to apply

You can apply online for this module.

Once you have created an account select ‘Single Modules and CPD courses’ > School of Applied Sciences Single Modules (Postgraduate).