Welcome to the website of the Biodiversity Survey Masters course at the University of Sussex.

The course was launched in 2005 in response to numerous reports drawing attention to the serious deficiency in trained and experienced practical field workers able to undertake biodiversity surveys and produce professional reports and assessments. The course therefore has two main elements: the acquisition of identification skills and competence in the organisational and legislative structure of conservation. A distinctive feature of the course is the requirement that all students develop a specialism in a particular taxonomic group and a particular habitat.

In summary, students will have achieved the following on successful completion of the course:

• Acquired the identification and survey skills needed by wildlife agencies, voluntary bodies and consultancies
• Developed a specialism in a particular taxonomic group and habitat
• Experienced different species and habitats found in Sussex and in other areas of the UK (through two residential field trips)
• Produced a major professional biodiversity survey