Course description
We developed this course in consultation with the Institute of Public Rights of Way Management (IPROW) and the Countryside Agency (formerly the Countryside Commission, and now Natural England).
In 1987 the Countryside Commission recognised the rights of way network was the single most important means by which the public gain access to, and enjoy the countryside.
The Countryside and Rights of Way Act, 2000 further strengthened the focus on access.
Local highways authorities are responsible for implementing legislation and delivering countryside access. They develop initiatives to make sure the countryside is accessible to everyone and that access is conserved. Public and voluntary groups also have a role in lobbying organisations and making sure that existing legislation is carried out.
This distance learning course develops your expertise and understanding so you can work at senior management levels in organisations with an interest in countryside access.
It allows intending and practising managers in this and associated areas to focus on rights of way and access issues.
The course covers
• existing legislation and its implementation
• the sustainable management of rights of way and access
• the wider social, political and environmental context in which access managers must work
It allows you to develop your generic management skills and apply them to the subject of access. These skills are increasingly important in local authorities and other organisations, and will allow you to progress in your chosen career.
The IPROW, the industry body, is developing policies to reflect the increasing importance of access. They identified the need for professional qualifications at this level and continuing professional development for practitioners. Their officers were closely involved in developing this course. All the subject material was prepared under their guidance by respected authors in the field.
Natural England (previously the Countryside Agency) also helped develop the distance learning materials, which includes topical case studies and activities often based on real work scenarios. Distance learning allows you to study for an MSc from your home while continuing to work. You have access to our learning resources and support from tutors.
Associated careers
Our graduates are now working within the main government agencies including • Countryside Agency • English Nature • Environment Agency • Forestry Commission • local authorities • national park authorities throughout the UK and overseas.
Course content
The taught part of the course consists of eight assessed modules – four specialist modules, three general management modules and one optional module.
Specialist modules
• introduction to public rights of way and access • recording and changing rights of access • public rights of way and access management • wider access issues
General modules
• professional management skills • consultancy project • visitor and sustainable tourism management
Options
Choose one from • geographical information systems (GIS) • environmental impact assessment • cultural landscapes and protected area management • social inclusion and cohesion • landscape and wildlife management
To complete the MSc, you take an applied research methods module and submit a dissertation of between 15,000-20,000 words.
You will receive an induction to the programme and support for your study through induction packs, student handbooks, study guides and study school.
We also provide dissertation workshops to help you prepare for working on your dissertation.
