University axes 'unique' degree course option
Plans by the University of Birmingham have been criticised for cutting one of the only courses in its kind in the UK.
Based at the University's Shrewsbury campus, the course in Biological recording is one of only a handful in existence. It focuses on field skills, both recording and identifying vegetation and flora. Students are currently able to study for a Masters degree, diploma or certificate.
Although current students will be permitted to finish the course, the option for potential university students will be axed from next year.
(Source: Flickr)
The courses' description states:
"With the development of the National Biodiversity Network and the establishment of local record centres in most counties, there is an increasing demand for training in the collection and management of biological records. This programme allows you to decide which depth of study is most appropriate, with a choice of modules allowing a degree of specialisation."
Bursaries are currently available for students who finish the Masters qualification and are self-funded.
An interesting aspect of this course is that 50% of the qualification is field-based, something often distinctly lacking when it comes to science degrees, and is said to be over-subscribed on a yearly basis.
Hundreds of people have signed a petition to keep the course available while the University considers moving the course to another provider.
60 students are currently studying for the MSc qualification, and the worry is that if no-one else is willing to offer the course in the future due to cuts, then this could lead to a skill shortage in the field.
Botanist Mark Duffel registered shock at the proposals, believing it to be "the leading course to get recognised field skills".
Graduates can consider options in ecology, conversation, planning and environmental sciences.
Science and information technology degrees are one of the ways to fill skill shortage gaps. By cutting degrees that potentially cost more to run, although it may be understandable in the current climate, society as a whole will feel the effects in the future.
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