Wastes Minimisation

The year is divided into three semesters (October - January; February - June and July - September). Modules are started and finished within a semester, irrespective of the mode of delivery. The minimum time to gain the Postgraduate Certificate is two semesters (part-time/distance learning), but an individual can take up to two years to complete the course.

Unlike traditional degree level courses, it is possible to enrol on the distance learning mode of delivery on three occasions during a calendar year.

PgCert Wastes Minimisation has been specifically designed to meet the needs and demands of the modern wastes management industry. Delivered in a range of formats (distance learning and part-time [subject to recruitment]) it aims to provide students from a diversity of backgrounds with the opportunity to develop the skills and knowledge at postgraduate level that will enable them to become an effective waste manager.

The aim is for students to develop the critical, analytical skills associated with postgraduate training as well as acquiring a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the principles of wastes management, and be trained to undertake the research required to tackle environmental issues.

In addition to the acquisition of subject-specific skills and knowledge, the programmes of study will equip its graduates with a range of transferable skills.

The mode of delivery dictates the range of teaching and learning strategies adopted, but could typically include lectures, seminars, fieldwork and supported by independent study. The basis for distance learning study are Module Learning Packs (MLPs), which contain essential study material covering all learning outcomes. Where appropriate the MLPs also include a variety of journal articles as well as other reference materials and further reading lists. The University of Northampton virtual learning environment (NILE) facilitates communication and discussion with both fellow students and course tutors, as well as serving as a notice board and repository for posting news and developments in wastes management. On-campus students attend weekly lectures.

• All modules can be studied in a range of formats, for example traditionally taught (subject to recruitment), intensive residential (subject to recruitment), e- and distance learning
• They can be studied individually as part of a CPD programme, or can lead to a named award

Students take three 20 credit modules:

• Wastes Management (compulsory)
• Wastes Minimisation - Municipal Solid Waste (compulsory)
• Wastes Minimisation - Commercial and Industrial (compulsory)

A range of other postgraduate Wastes Management courses are also available. Please check the University course pages for details:

• MSc Wastes Management
• PgDip Wastes Management
• PgCert Advanced Wastes Management Technologies
• PgCert Local Authority Wastes Management
• PgCert Wastes Management Policy and Legislation
• PgCert Wastes Management

Williams, P.T (2005), Waste Treatment & Disposal, 2nd Edition, Wiley, London

DEFRA (2007), National Waste Strategy for England 2007. London, HMSO

Coursework only.

Graduates from The University of Northampton are highly sought after by the wastes and allied industries. Examples include Recycling Officers for Local Authorities, Landfill Site Managers and Environmental Consultants.