[almostnormal]

hello.

quite often the FDSc is either the first two years of the BSc, but be careful because sometimes if you do decide to do a third year you need to do bridging modules over the summer to bump up the FDSc to make you ok for dissertation etc. in my experience as long as you have enthusiasm and experience, that can often make up for the lack of theoretical knowledge. someone once told me that you can spout scientific references til you're blue in the face but if you don't have any practical experience you don't get anywhere. how true that is i don't know, but its definitely easier to get a foot in if you have a relevant qualification and some experience under your belt. i did an FDSc in Ecology and Conservation Management and 2 years worth of digital mapping, survey analysis and events, which seemed like a lot, but it was worth it, i'm now in my dream job.

its worth saying, as well, try to volunteer for a sector you're interested in. that way you make connections in a field you're into. so if you want to go into reserves, start with you're local one. if a job comes up people will know you already and that can be a big help! you still have to compete but you definitely have an advantage.

sarah