Diploma of Conservation and Ecosystem Management
Overview
18 months full time
1.5 years
February, July
February, July
Turn your commitment to the environment into a successful career
Our Diploma of Conservation and Ecosystem Management AHC51120 will teach you the knowledge and skills to manage natural resources and respond to the challenges of biodiversity loss, climate change and environmental damage.
Hands-on industry experience puts you out in the field
The Diploma of Conservation and Ecosystem Management AHC51120 offers hands-on experience and practical skills taught by industry experts. You can’t protect the environment from a classroom alone, so you’ll be conducting field work in natural bush close to Epping campus and Northern Lodge training centre, and on specialised field trips to beautiful locations around Victoria.
Melbourne Polytechnic collaborates with key organisations including Darebin Parklands, Whittlesea City Council, Parks Victoria and Landcare to develop projects focused on real-world issues that provide you with unique experience before you’ve entered the workplace.
The first step in a fulfilling career
The Diploma of Conservation and Ecosystem Management AHC51120 will teach you how to manage the environment in modern times, with a sustainable approach at the core of your studies.
This course could be your first step into an exciting and impactful career engaging with our natural environment. You might be employed by government agencies or private organisations in the conservation of land, catchment protection, park, flora or fauna management.
Career Pathways
Where will the Diploma of Conservation and Ecosystem Management AHC51120 take me?
Roles in natural resource management and conservation and land management are often with private contractors. Positions can also be found with government bodies, such as Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP), Victorian Fisheries Authority (VFA) and Victorian Water Corporations.
Study Pathways
As a graduate of our Diploma of Conservation and Ecosystem Management AHC51120, you can articulate into a related degree course. The amount of credit given towards the degree varies depending on the provider institute and type of degree. It is a good idea to seek pathways advice from the degree provider.
Course Details
Delivery methods
You are strongly advised to develop your own contacts within the industry by joining appropriate volunteer groups and undertaking a wide range of work experience in this way.
- Field work
How you will study
Each course has a dedicated learning method that is designed to let you thrive in your studies.
On-campus
Interactive learning in a face-to-face environment. Classes will be held at a Melbourne Polytechnic campus or partner institute. Visit the How You'll Study page for more information.
Class Schedule
Three days per week.
Assessment Methods
Information about assessment will be provided at the start of each unit. Assessment methods include: observation, demonstration, simulated workplace, written assessment, portfolio and case studies.
Units of Study
The hours displayed are nominal, actual classroom hours delivered may differ. Please contact us for the latest student contact hours information.
| Code | Subject | Elective | Hours |
| AHCECR402 | Plan the implementation of revegetation works | Elective | 80 |
| AHCECR502 | Conduct biological surveys | Elective | 200 |
| AHCECR504 | Manage implementation of ecological restoration programs | Elective | 200 |
| AHCFAU501 | Manage fauna populations | Elective | 150 |
| AHCLPW506 | Develop a management plan for a designated area | Elective | 200 |
| AHCNRM510 | Develop a water quality monitoring program | Elective | 120 |
| AHCPCM510 | Collect and classify plants | Elective | 120 |
| AHCPMG413 | Define the pest problem | Elective | 100 |
| AHCWRK506 | Collect and manage data | Elective | 120 |
| AHCWRK513 | Write and present reports | Elective | 60 |
Attend an Information Session
Fees & Costs
| Government subsidised fee | Non-subsidised fee | |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition fee | $10900 | $20150 |
| Materials fee | $120 | $120 |
| Maximum annual amenities | $250 | $250 |
| Total payable | $11270 | $20520 |
| Per year | $17200 |
| Per semester | $8600 |
| Materials fee | $120 |
The student tuition fees as published are subject to change given individual circumstances at enrolment.
Displayed course fees are indicative only. There are many variables that impact the total amount of your full course costs including qualification for government subsidies, concessions or recognition of prior learning. Tuition fees do not include the cost of student amenities or material costs.
This training is delivered with Victorian and Commonwealth Government funding. Contact us to find out if you’re eligible for a Government subsidy.
Melbourne Polytechnic offers a range of payment options to help you pay your tuition fees, so you can get on with your studies.
Fees displayed are effective for new applications received on or after 1st of November. Tuition fees do not include textbooks, course materials or overseas student health insurance and visa fees.
After initial deposit, international students are able to pay tuition fees in installments, four times per year.
For more detailed information please read the International Student Fees.
Materials
Lists of required materials, books and timetables will be provided at course induction or class enrolment by the teaching department.Fees explained
The fees for those ineligible for a government-funded enrolment.
The cost of tuition for those eligible for government funding.
Additional expenses
The Student Services and Amenities Fee is charged at forty cents (40 cents) per student contact hour and is capped over a twelve (12) month period, effective from the enrolment date, to:
- $250 for full fee-paying students; and
- $175 for concession-paying students studying Certificate I, II, III, or IV.
Amenities fees are used to improve non-academic services including libraries, counselling services, student support, and recreational activities.
The material fee will cover a four-day Conservation camp related to student assessments.
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Learn MoreRequirements
No entry requirements. You must complete a Language, Literacy and Numeracy test to enrol. Academic: Australian Year 12 equivalency.English: Academic IELTS 6.0 overall, Pearson PTE Academic 50 overall, or Melbourne Polytechnic recognised equivalency.
Next Steps
We're really excited for you to join the Melbourne Polytechnic community and we look forward to supporting you on your education journey.
The first step to enrolling is completing the application short form from the Apply Now page.
You'll then receive a link to complete a few more personal details.
It is a mandatory government requirement for all prospective students to complete an online literacy and numeracy assessment.
Once you are ready to enrol, you will be invited to attend our Skills and Job Centre, or come to campus to complete your enrolment in person.
For Diplomas and Advanced Diplomas, you may be eligible for a VET Student Loan. Read more about them here.
If you need assistance with your application and the next steps, you can contact one of our Education and Course Advisors on 1300 635 276 or follow a step-by-step guide to enrolling for vocational education local students.
When we receive your application, the International Office will be in contact with you shortly to discuss your application and provide you additional instructions.
If you'd like to speak to one of our International Office staff directly, call 1300 635 276
We're Victoria's Large Training Provider of the Year
Study with Melbourne Polytechnic, proud winner of Victoria’s 2024 Large Training Provider of the Year! Recognised for our innovative programs, industry partnerships and commitment to student success, we’re here to help you build the skills for a thriving future.
Recognising Organisations
Nationally Recognised Training This course is government accredited and has national recognition.
Local student means; you are an Australian citizen or permanent resident, a New Zealand citizen or a permanent humanitarian visa holder.