Diplomas

[Lozzi]

Hello, I am thinking of doing a distance learning diploma with warnborough college in wildlife management. Has anyone studied with them before and know if they're any good. Also does anyone know the difference between a professional and advanced diploma?
Thanks for any advice.
Lauren x

[Words]

Lauren, I don't know the college but I've had a quick look at their website. They seem to offer Diplomas at what they call 'Level 2', which is roughly equivalent to GCE exams (ie below A level but more vocationally focused) if they are aligned to UK national structures (I have based this on the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority - QCA - guidance which is what an employer would do). It's somewhat difficult to tell, but the qualification will be fairly basic in terms of how employers will see it.

I also couldn't find where they do a full diploma in Wildlife Management, though they do offer a 4 credit course and allow you to build up a diploma by taking various modules courses. The Advanced Diploma is just longer (you take more modules).

I would be cautious, but that does depend on what you expect from doing it. PM me if you want to clarify anything (I work in Higher Education and look at qualification frameworks as part of my day job).

[Lozzi]

Thanks for your help Words. Ive decided to go the whole hog and have applied for a degree through clearing and am going to try and fit it round work. Thank you for your advice though because I was between doig diplomas and taking the plunge and doing a dgree and your info has definately helped me in the right direction as I have made more time to do the degree and think it will be much more useful to me. Fingers crossed it all goes OK. Thanks again for the info
x