Arachnology
Discover the remarkable world of spiders through a substantial programme of advanced study spanning biology, evolution, behaviour, ecology, conservation, cognition, welfare and scientific research. From the extraordinary properties of spider silk and venom to tarantula biology, tropical diversity, fossil spiders and questions of pain and sentience, the programme combines a rigorous foundation in arachnology with opportunities to specialise in the aspects of spider life that fascinate you most.
Designed for serious enthusiasts and independent learners, the 360-credit Advanced Diploma progresses through three levels of study and culminates in an independent research project. Study the complete programme over three years or longer, or begin with an individual Level 4 module and build from there.
Discover Your Potential with Wessex Academia
What is Arachnology
Arachnology is the scientific study of the spider family. Whilst true spiders and tarantulas form the core of the programme, other arachnid groups are also studied, with some opportunities for specialism.
Mode of Delivery
Asynchronous lectures, reading materials and extensive resources are shared on our Moodle platform to which you will be granted access. The course is delivered entirely online, under the guidance of our expert lecturers and academic staff. The academic year begins in September but you can also enter the programme in January.
What do you study
Broadly similar to a three year undergraduate degree, there are three levels (levels 4 to 6). In level 4 (year 1) you will study four core modules to give you the foundations of Arachnology. In year 2 you study at level 5, with further core modules to advance your knowledge, and begin to make choices from our optional modules. In year 3 you will specialise by choosing from a variety of optional modules, and complete your dissertation on a topic chosen in collaboration with the academic staff and your supervisor. The modules are detailed below.
Cost
Each 15 credit module is £200, with a 30 credit module costing £400. This includes everything for the module, with no hidden cost, with the exception of any text books you wish to buy. The entire programme therefore costs £4800, but you can study a module at a time and exit the programme when you wish. You will receive a certificate for each module, and a certificate of completion should you exit early which summarises the extent of your study.
Founding cohort discount
As these programmes are new, we are offering a limited number of places with a scholarship discount of 80%. T&Cs apply. This is an excellent opportunity to learn something new, and be involved with the development of a new course, at a really low cost. Email us today to find out more (info@wessexacademia.co.uk).