This introductory online QGIS course will introduce GIS and how it works, as well as an introduction to QGIS as an open software option.
Geographical Information Systems (GIS) underpin much of our modern life, from navigation to social media. The ability to gather, manage and analyse spatial data is an incredibly valuable skill.
What is covered in this course?
- What QGIS is
- Introduction to QGIS files and coordinate systems
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During this course, there will be very little actual use of QGIS, but you will learn the background knowledge to enable you to quickly get to grips with QGIS in future courses.
This is a 2-week online course covering 2 topics, for which you will complete a variety of self-led online study content, activities, assignments and live Zoom sessions. Time commitment is approximately 2-3 hours a week and an e-certificate is provided upon completion. Understand how our online courses are delivered.
By the end of the course, you will be able to:
- Understand what GIS is, what QGIS does, how open software works, and how to install QGIS Identify examples of specific animals from their tracks and signs.
- Identify the different file types used by QGIS, such as vectors and rasters, and understand different coordinate systems.
- Share this knowledge with friends, family, and fellow volunteers.
Who Should Attend? – Nature enthusiasts, Students, Rangers, Early career ecologists.
Knowledge Level – Introductory. Level descriptors can be found on the following webpage: Framework and Course Level Descriptors
Prior Knowledge – No existing knowledge, or experience is needed for this course. Just a willingness to explore and learn.
Please note that bookings will close at 2 days before the start date to allow for all participants to be enrolled to the online platform – bookings will not be taken after this time. Bookings will close sooner if course capacity is reached.
Live Webinar Information
There are 2 webinars for this course, taking place at the end of each week. Please see the listing for the day and time.
Please note – webinars will be recorded and uploaded to the virtual learning platform for learners unable to attend.
About the Tutor
Flavia Occhibove
Flavia has always been passionate about wildlife and the beauty of the earth’s diverse ecosystems. This took her on a long academic journey, which included several aspects of ecological research, and culminated in a PhD investigating the relationship between biodiversity conservation and wildlife zoonotic diseases. Since she enjoys her nerdy side, she specialised in eco-epidemiological modelling and regularly uses QGIS for her research (as well as for her lectures to undergrads). She is a supporter of open-source software. Currently, she is looking forward to start her second postdoc, after a great three years at UKCEH.
Eleri Kent
Eleri is a PhD student with a background in landscape ecology. She is currently researching the effects of landscape context on woodland use by bats at Stirling University, as part of which she regularly uses QGIS for data manipulation, mapping and analysis. Eleri also has a background in outdoor education which led to an interest in teaching and outreach.
Example Timetable
Week 1: GIS01 - What is GIS?
Self-study material available from the course start date
Week 1 Live Webinar
Week 2: GIS02 - Introduction to QGIS files and coordinate systems
Self-study material available after week 1 webinar
Week 2 Live Webinar
The final deadline to complete any outstanding activities and self-study components is 2 weeks after the final webinar
Time commitment: This course will require approximately 2-3 hours of your time each week. This includes covering course materials on our Moodle learning platform and the Zoom session.
What's Included
The course has been carefully created to help you continue to build on your knowledge as the course progresses. With content crafted to the online Moodle Platform and bespoke to the Field Studies Council.
The course includes:
- 45-minute interactive Zoom workshops to connect with the tutor and other participants
- Personalised feedback on a marked assignment
- Expert tuition for which the Field Studies Council is renowned
- Activities to work on independently in advance of each Zoom workshop
- Tailored course completion certificate
- Once registered, you will follow well-illustrated, user-friendly ’books’ to pick up knowledge. Quizzes and skill-checks will give you instant feedback on your learning. Forums give students the chance to interact with each other as well as a place to share work.
Bursaries and Subsidies
Student Discount.
This course is eligible for a student discount. If you are a current student, please use discount code BioStudent20 at checkout for 20% off all Biodiversity courses.
Before You Attend
Accessing Your Course
- Once you sign up you’ll receive an email at least 24 hours in advance of the course opening with details of how to access our easy-to-use platform, Moodle.
Moodle can be accessed through a browser or an app. - Webinars are via Zoom so you won’t need any new software to attend
Recommended Devices
It is recommended that you access your course through a PC or laptop. Please be aware that there will be reduced functionality if you decide to access the course through a tablet or smartphone. The Field Studies Council is unable to email content directly to you.
Opportunities to attend this course
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Fri 24, January 2025 - Fri 21, February 2025
The webinars will take place on Friday's 5.30 pm – 6.15 pm on the following dates:
- Week 1: 31st January 2025
- Week 2: 7th February 2025
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Mon 23, June 2025 - Mon 21, July 2025
The webinars will take place on Monday's 5.30 pm – 6.15 pm on the following dates:
- Week 1: 30th June 2025
- Week 2: 7th July 2025
No current dates for this course? Click here to view all the upcoming Natural History courses.
Progress Your Learning
This is a training course from the Field Studies Council, delivered by expert tutors with an approachable learning style. After attending this course, you may like to progress your learning with further relevant courses or branch out into other areas of natural history. The Field Studies Council offers both online and in-person courses, so you can choose the learning style that suits you best.
The course gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in a new subject and acquire novel skills. Our online portal gives you time to study at your own pace and fit the lessons around your own schedule.
If you have any questions about our online courses please check our Frequently Asked Questions
Please email [email protected] if you have any questions.
Group Bookings Made Easy
If you have a group of 10 or more individuals wanting to complete one of our courses, our team are available to discuss your options – from discounts to private team courses. Find out more!
You can rest assured that the absolute best content from an expert in environmental education will be at your fingertips. In choosing a Field Studies Council course, you will be joining thousands of people who learn with us each year.