Environmental Impact Assessment Certificate of Credit

The level 7 Certificate of Credit in Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a 20-credit module providing a sound appreciation of the importance of conducting EIA, together with an understanding of the techniques involved. The module, which takes a comparative international outlook and covers changes in EIA regulation and guidelines, also considers the environmental assessment of plans and programmes by strategic environmental assessment (SEA).

This module is suitable for intending and existing environmental management professionals seeking to increase or refresh their knowledge and understanding of the EIA process. While this module is an opportunity to enhance your CPD and add to your professional portfolio, it is also an excellent opportunity to experience our Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA)-accredited Sustainability and Environmental Management MSc before making a commitment to study the full programme.

By completing this module, you will gain a critical understanding of international environmental assessment practice and its potential for delivering sustainable development.

Accredited by CIWEM, giving you free student membership

This programme is accredited by the Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management (CIWEM). 

Whilst enrolled on this module you can enjoy free student membership to the CIWEM that allows you to:

• Keep up to date with the latest best-practice knowledge through their member’s magazine, policy documents and technical journals
• Build your professional network through free events and local branches
• Enhance your career prospects through professional recognition of your qualification

The CIWEM will support the development of the skills and qualities that employers are looking for, providing you with opportunities to showcase your talents.

Upon completion of this course, you will be eligible to register for graduate membership of CIWEM.

Delivery by experienced academics

We have many years of experience in the delivery of environmental courses online which means you can expect the highest standards of teaching and education. Our team of tutors, made up of research-active academics and practising sustainability professionals, will guide you through the module and provide regular feedback to ensure you stay on track.

You will also have access to a dedicated online learning adviser who will be on hand to support you with pastoral and non-academic matters throughout your studies.

We will advise you of your study plan when you are invited to enrol.

Please note that our modules are subject to change - we review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects.

The module is delivered 100% online over 10 weeks using a range of interactive learning materials and some live classroom sessions. Provision is made for discussion and interaction with tutors and fellow students through live virtual classroom sessions and online discussion forums.

You will study alongside students who are on the Sustainability and Environmental Management MSc, giving you a wider perspective of sustainability from your global student community.

Pace of study

We recommend about 20 hours of study per week to complete one 20-credit module over a 10-week trimester.

Assessment method

This course is assessed through 100% coursework with a range of methods, such as essays, research reports, presentations, group work and practical reports.

You will normally require a good first degree in a related subject. However, applicants with professional qualifications or relevant experience can also apply.

English language qualifications

If English is not your first language, or you have not successfully completed your highest level of qualification in English, you will need an English language qualification. For this course you will need at least one of the following:

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System) 6.0*
• TOEFL 550 (paper based) 213 (computer based) or 80 (internet based)
• Pearson Test of Academic English: 51
• Cambridge Advanced Certificate: Pass
• London Tests of English: we accept level 4 for undergraduate courses
• International GCE O-level English Language: Grade C
• International GCSE English/English as a Second Language: Grade C*

*If you have a minimum of IELTS level 4.5, you can study our Certificate of Credit in English for Academic Purposes, which we will accept as evidence that you are able to perform at a suitable level of IELTS 6.0. We will also accept the Certificate of Credit as evidence that you can perform at GCSE level.

If you are unable to take an English Language Test locally, you may wish to consider our Derby English Language Test (DELT), which is an online test in two parts: reading and writing, and listening and speaking. Take a look at our Derby English Language test (DELT) page for full course details, online exam dates and how to book.

^‡2020/21 Fees for new entrants

Starting between September 2020 and August 2021.

2021/22 Fees for new entrants

Starting between September 2021 and August 2022.

About your fees

Prices are correct for the year of entry shown. These are subject to annual increase in subsequent academic years.

Flexible payment plan available

• Pay monthly for the course that you are studying

Students should apply directly to the University.

Apply now

For support with completing your application, view our guide to the application process.

Documents to support your application

When submitting your application, please ensure it is complete, with all the relevant documents requested in the application form. These are listed below:

• Photo ID – this could be your passport or driving licence
• Current CV
• Copies of certificates and transcripts or a letter of testimony for previous qualifications*

*Documents not in English or Welsh must be accompanied by a certified translation by a professional translator/translation company. Each translation must contain:

• Confirmation from the translator that it is an accurate translation of the original document
• The date of the translation
• The full name and signature of the translator, or an authorised official of the company
• The translator’s contact details

A list of approved translators can be found on the UK Government website.

Application deadlines

All of our online courses have set start dates throughout the year. We require time to review your application and get back to you with a response before your course starts. Take a look at information regarding applying for an online course to see full details of deadlines and term dates.

This Certificate of Credit can act as an ideal form of CPD for those working in sustainability and environmental management. It will provide you with a critical understanding of the principles of EIA and skills required to execute a successful EIA.

Options for further CPD

It is important for environmental professionals and practitioners to stay up to date with the latest trends and developments within the industry through continued professional development. Those looking to further enhance their CPD within sustainability and environmental management can continue their learning with another one of our Sustainability and Environmental Certificate of Credit stand-alone modules:

• International Environmental Policy and Law
• Tools for Delivering Sustainable Solutions
• Sustainable Business Management

Progress on to a masters degree

The 20 credits at level 7 gained from this Certificate of Credit can be transferred as recognition of prior learning (RPL) onto a relevant masters degree, subject to meeting all other admission criteria. The 20 credits from this stand-alone module can be used towards module exemptions onto our online MSc Sustainability and Environmental Management.

Contact us

Contact the University of Derby Online Learning:

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• Tools for Delivering Sustainable Solutions to Environmental Problems Certificate of Credit
• International Environmental Policy and Law Certificate of Credit
• Sustainable Business Management Certificate of Credit