The Centre for Statistics in Ecology, Environment and Conservation (SEEC) at the University of Cape Town is presenting a hybrid (in-person or online) short course in statistical data analysis and experimental design using R. The course aims to equip participants with practical experience and skills in analysing data, using some statistical techniques frequently used in the sciences. The skills include designing experiments, choosing appropriate statistical methods for visual display and statistical modelling of data, model checking, interpretation and reporting of statistical results, and understanding limitations of statistical methods and data. The course uses the R statistical package throughout, but we do not assume prior knowledge of this package. The course is targeting research students or scientists that require these skills for their work.

The course will be run over five half days (20-24 July 2026) and will cover the following broad topics (see next page for more details):

  • Introduction to R
  • Introduction to statistical modelling
  • Regression
  • Design and analysis of experiments
  • Generalised linear models

The course fee is R5000 for online, or R6000 with catering for in-person attendance. We unfortunately are not offering any bursaries.

Apply for the SEEC Stats Course here. All those who are interested in finding out more information on the course should click the link here.

Please note:

  • Deadline for applications is 28 June 2026 and applications will be dealt with on a first come first served basis. Applying for the course will be taken as a commitment to pay the course fees if you are accepted.
  • Cancellations should be made in writing and emailed to cindy.maree@uct.ac.za
  • A 15% cancellation fee will apply before 28 June 2026. Thereafter a 100% cancellation fee will apply. No withdrawals will be considered after the deadline and no-shows will be required to pay the costs in full.
  • Note that should payment not be received by the payment deadline, then we reserve the right to allocate your place to someone else. You are still liable for the course fee if the place is not filled.
  • Where payment through official employment channels is slow, please apply early.