UWA PLUS

Understanding Environmental DNA

The use of environmental DNA (eDNA) is an exciting new technology that has application in biodiversity monitoring and field assessments. This unit will develop your understanding of environmental DNA with emphasis on the entire process from sample collection through to reporting of findings. This short course is especially useful for environmental consultants and government employees who currently, or in the future, are likely to collect environmental DNA samples in the course of their employment.

Upon successful completion, you'll receive: 

  •  2 PD Points
  • Certificate of Achievement
  • A UWA Plus Professional Development Transcript, listing all successfully completed micro-credentials
Delivery mode
Online
Availability
This micro-credential is not available in 2024

Duration
5 weeks
Effort
50 hours
 Coordinator
Deirdre Gleeson
Cost
$660 inc. GST
Critical information summary
ENVTM512 Understanding Environmental DNA (PDF)
Researcher standing in a creek using a camera 

What you'll learn

What environmental DNA is, how it can be used, and its application in biodiversity monitoring and field assessments

Skills and knowledge required to design and implement an environmental DNA project

Notebook and a workspace 

Why study this course?

  • You'll gain an advanced understanding of the application of environmental DNA techniques for field-based issues including, but not limited to, biodiversity conservation, monitoring of both native and invasive species and aquaculture management.
  • You'll understand the advantages and limitations of eDNA including how it can complement traditional methods
  • You'll learn to design and implement an environmental DNA project

Who should study this course?

This course is designed for:

  • consultants, regulators and researchers who would like to better understand eDNA, its potential benefits and the pitfalls to look out for
  • recent graduates wishing to gain further experience
  • current professionals (public servants, industry or community groups) looking to refresh their knowledge or upskill

How does it work?

Participants will be required to complete online quizzes and an eDNA written report

What's next after this course?

Future study

This unit opens the pathway to future postgraduate study, such as Master of Environmental Science.