What is a Nature Conservationist?
Our department equips its students with the knowledge and skills necessary for a career in nature conservation and related fields. This includes, but is not limited to, reserve management, environmental consultancy, conservation law enforcement, field and laboratory technicians and is the starting block for pursuing a career in research. Nature conservationists take on the important challenge of balancing the natural resource needs of wildlife and humans.
The Department of Conservation Management provides multiple qualifications in Nature Conservation.
Programs offered
The following qualification paths exist within the Nature Conservation field:
Undergraduate
Postgraduate
Academic years begin in January and end in December. All programs are offered at The Nelson Mandela University’s George Campus, Western Cape, in an area where many of South Africa’s biomes come together, where indigenous forests and fynbos are within walking distance of the campus buildings. Our campus is located just outside the city of George, on the edge of the indigenous forest. Here we have a tremendous diversity of species present, with more than 30 mammal, 200 bird, 250 fungi, 30 reptile, 800 insect, and 1 500 plant species recorded on campus and in the immediate surroundings.
This proximity to nature enables our students to apply the theory taught in class to practical situations during practical sessions and excursions, both on campus and further afield. These practical sessions and excursions enable students to observe the species they learn about in class and study the intricate interactions these species have with the rest of the natural environment. This enables students to develop practical skills, as well as problem-solving, communication & teamwork, which will be essential for their career development. Another major advantage of our campus is the relatively small class sizes, which provide students with more focused attention from our highly dedicated lecturers, who share their expertise in conservation and research.
Diploma Nature Conservation
The NQF level 6 Diploma qualification involves two years of theory (course work on campus) followed by one year of Work-Integrated Learning (WIL), or Experiential training. During the third year of studies, students have the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills, during the WIL year. This year is completed off campus, at a conservation organisation or nature reserve of the students choosing, anywhere in South Africa (or further afield), under the supervision of a qualified mentor. The WIL year is designed for students to acquire practical, hands on experience of the field they are interested in, and to have a better understanding of what it means to work in the natural environment. Here students will be given ample opportunity to apply what they have learnt from the previous two years of study, as well as expand their knowledge base, work in the industry and even secure future employment. Through this real-world experience, students are exposed to many different aspects of conservation and can discover the challenges and rewards of this career field.
Advanced Diploma Nature Conservation
This one-year qualification at NQF level 7 is offered full-time with in-person course work on campus and excursions off campus. This course is geared towards preparing students for a junior management or research technician career.
Career Opportunities
Career opportunities include: nature conservationists, wildlife managers, extension work, conservation management on nature and game reserves and estates, parks boards, provincial nature conservation departments, private nature reserves and properties belonging to regional services councils, certain municipalities and larger forestry companies. Other career fields include field ranger, ecologist, researcher, environmental restoration agent, public and environmental health management practitioner, or biosecurity and environmental monitoring agent, a highly skilled and qualified field guide. There are also opportunities in the socio-ecological sector such as environmental education.
For enquiries regarding the Diploma and Advanced Diploma programs:
Enquiries
Mrs Natalie du Plessis (Admissions)
T: +27 (0)44 801 5194
F: +27 (0)44 805 6767
E: Natalie.DuPlessis@mandela.ac.za
W: georgecampus.mandela.ac.za