Dr. Marina AlcoverAcademic director focused on measurable results and operational excellence in maritime education. Integrates IMO/STCW regulations and ISO 21001/9001 f
Course · 300 h · 5 modules
Biodiversity Monitoring Course
This course will provide you with the essential tools to understand and assess the state of our ecosystems. You will learn everything from the theoretical foundations of ecology to the practical techniques of sampling and data…
Duration300 h
FormatOnline
Starts23 November
Places20 / 20
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Programme overview
What is the Biodiversity Monitoring Course?
The Biodiversity Monitoring Course
This course will provide you with the essential tools to understand and assess the state of our ecosystems. You will learn everything from the theoretical foundations of ecology to the practical techniques of sampling and data analysis. This program will equip you to design and implement effective monitoring programs, contributing to the conservation and sustainable management of biodiversity.
Differential Advantages
- Standardized Methodologies: Learn internationally recognized protocols for monitoring different taxonomic groups.
- Data Analysis: Master the use of statistical software and visualization tools to interpret results and generate reports.
- Real-World Case Studies: Analyze practical examples of monitoring projects in diverse ecosystems and contexts.
- Subject Matter Experts: Receive instruction from professionals with extensive experience in biodiversity research and conservation.
- Immediate Applicability: Acquire transferable skills to work in government organizations, NGOs, or environmental consultancies.
Programme type
Course
Study mode
Online
Duration
300 hours
Modules
5
Start date
10-12-2026
Programme highlights
- Monitoring Fundamentals: Learn the essential principles and importance of monitoring for conservation.
- Field Techniques: Master practical methods for sampling, identifying, and recording biodiversity data.
- Data Analysis: Acquire skills to interpret ecological data and generate meaningful reports.
- Tools and Software: Become familiar with the key technologies and programs used in biodiversity analysis.
- Conservation Strategies: Understand how monitoring informs decisions and actions to protect biodiversity.
- Boost your conservation career with this comprehensive course and become an expert in biodiversity monitoring.
Curriculum
Programme Structure
The programme is structured in 5 modules, listed below in order of study.
01
Scientific Foundations and Statistical Design of Environmental Monitoring Programs
- Definition of key concepts: Difference between biological inventory, long-term monitoring and operational environmental surveillance.
- Selection of biological indicators and umbrella species for the evaluation of the conservation status of an ecosystem.
- Experimental design and statistical sampling: Establishment of plots, transects and counting points with scientific rigor.
- Determination of the sampling effort and analysis of the species accumulation curves to validate the representativeness.
- Identification of potential biases in monitoring and strategies for data standardisation between different observers.
02
Plant community flora and structure monitoring techniques
- Forest inventory methodologies: Measurement of dendrometric variables such as diameter at chest height (DAP) and total height.
- Evaluation of the floristic composition and diversity through the use of Shannon-Wiener and Simpson indices.
- Techniques of analysis of natural regeneration and monitoring of seedling growth in plots of permanence.
- Monitoring of plant phenology: Observation of the cycles of flowering, fruiting and falling of leaves in the face of climate change.
- Use of quadrants and intercept lines for the study of the coverage of herbaceous and shrub strata.
03
Census methodologies and monitoring of terrestrial fauna (vertebrates and invertebrates)
- Direct sighting techniques and listening transects for monitoring bird and primate populations.
- Capture-recapture and marking methods for the estimation of population densities in micromammals and reptiles.
- Monitoring of epigeous and flying arthropods through the use of pitfall traps, malaise traps and coloured plates.
- Identification and registration of indirect traces: Analysis of fingerprints, droppings, burrows and bone remains on the ground.
- Herpetofauna tracking protocols: night visual searches and use of artificial shelters for amphibian monitoring.
04
Advanced technologies and non-invasive wildlife monitoring
- Deployment of photo-trapping stations: Camera configuration, grid design, and large volume management of images.
- Introduction to passive acoustic monitoring (PAM): Use of autonomous recorders for the detection of birds, bats and anurans.
- Application of telemetry and satellite tracking (GPS) for the study of home and migratory routes.
- The potential of environmental DNA (EDNA) in monitoring cryptic or rare species through water and soil samples.
- Use of drones (UAV) with thermal and multispectral sensors for the census of large mammals and mapping of habitats.
05
Data Management, Citizen Science and Results Communication
- Structuring of biological databases under the Darwin Core standard for information interoperability.
- Introduction to Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for mapping species distribution and analysis of temporary changes.
- The role of citizen science in mass monitoring: use of iNaturalist, eBird and other participatory platforms.
- Analysis of population trends and development of biodiversity indicators for sustainability reports.
- Visualization of scientific data: Creation of infographics and heat maps for the dissemination of results to decision makers.
Workload
Study Time and Workload
300 hours of study, online and at your own pace. Move the slider to the hours a week you can really put in.
Hours a week8
Weeks to finish—
You finish around—
Who it is for
Biologists, ecologists, and environmental technicians seeking to deepen their knowledge of sampling methodologies, data analysis, and conservation status assessment.Environmental consultants and project managers needing practical tools for preparing environmental impact reports and management plans.Protected area managers and NGOs needing to optimize the monitoring of key species and biodivers
Faculty
Academic direction and faculty
The teaching team at Navalis: working professionals who deliver and oversee the institute's programmes.
Eng. Diego Cifuentes
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Eng. Tomás Riera
Verified reviews
Student Reviews
Reviews collected and verified by Opynio, not written by us.
Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
- 01Identify and apply standardized protocols
- 02Analyze and interpret biodiversity data
- 03Assess the conservation status of species and ecosystems
- 04Communicating findings effectively to different audiences
- 05Use tools and technologies for data collection
- 06Design and implement long-term monitoring programs
Careers
Career Opportunities
01Field Technician in Conservation Projects: Data collection, species identification, population monitoring.
02Environmental Consultant: Environmental impact assessment, design of biodiversity management plans.
03Environmental Educator: Design and implementation of educational programs on biodiversity.
04Protected Area Manager: Planning and management of national parks, nature reserves, etc.
05Scientific Researcher: Development of studies on ecology, conservation, and management of biodiversity.
06Environmental Data Analyst: Processing and analysis of biodiversity data for decision-making.
07Technician in Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Centers: Care and rehabilitation of wild animals.
08Environmental Policy Advisor: Development of Reports and recommendations for biodiversity conservation at the governmental level.
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Questions
Entry Requirements
The variety of life on Earth, including all living organisms, their genes, and the ecosystems they form.
Yes. The itinerary includes ECDIS/Radar-ARPA/BRM with harbor, ocean, fog, storm, and SAR scenarios.
Online with live sessions; hybrid option for simulator/practical placements through agreements.
Assess the status and trends of biodiversity to inform conservation and management strategies.
Recommended functional SMCP. We offer support materials for standard phraseology.
Yes, with a relevant degree or experience in maritime/port operations. The admissions interview will confirm suitability.
Optional (3–6 months) through Companies & Collaborations and the Alumni Network.
Simulator practice (rubrics), defeat plans, SOPs, checklists, micro-tests and applied TFM.
A degree from Navalis Magna Institute + operational portfolio (tracks, SOPs, reports and KPIs) useful for audits and employment.
Online admissions
Admissions Process
No waiting for a phone call. If your documents are complete, you can pay in the same session.
Entry requirements
Academic/Professional Profile:Bachelor's/Undergraduate degree in Biology, Environmental Science, Ecology, or a related discipline; or demonstrable experience in biodiversity conservation or research projects.Language Proficiency:Desirable proficiency in the local language of the study area; Recommended knowledge of scientific English for literature review and communication with experts.Documentation:Updated CV, copy of degree or experience certificates, ID/Passport, cover letter detailing interest and relevant experience.Technical Requirements (for online/field):Access to
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