Ecology and Conservation

An Ecology and Conservation MSci at Brighton equips you with advanced knowledge and research skills to address global biodiversity challenges and drive sustainable solutions.

This integrated master’s degree combines practical fieldwork, applied conservation science and cutting-edge research, preparing you for leadership roles in ecological consultancy, conservation organisations and academic research.

You’ll start by building a strong foundation in ecology, genetics and biodiversity monitoring before progressing to advanced topics such as ecological impact assessment, species interactions and conservation policy. In your final year, you’ll undertake a substantial independent research project alongside modules that develop critical thinking, advanced data analysis and professional consultancy skills.

Brighton graduates work in ecological consultancies, wildlife charities, government agencies and research institutions, with many continuing to PhD -level study or specialist careers in conservation and environmental management.

Top reasons to choose this course

• Additional year of advanced study – gain a masters -level qualification with an additional year focused on research, advanced taxonomy and specialist modules.

• Ecology and conservation at Brighton is ranked 1st in the UK for academic support, 2nd in the UK for learning opportunities and 7th in the UK for teaching – National Student Survey 2025

• Develop high- level research skills – undertake an independent research project with academic supervision, producing a 12,000-word dissertation that prepares you for a PhD or research career.

• Career advantage – the MSci gives you a competitive edge for senior roles in ecology and conservation or progression to doctoral study.

• Brighton’s sustainability commitment – study in a city with strong environmental initiatives and access to the South Downs National Park and The Living Coast UNESCO Biosphere.

• Learn specialist field skills on day trips and residential field trips to places such as South Africa and Shropshire as well as in our rich local environment.

• Travel and accommodation included in the fees for mandatory residential trips to locations such as Shropshire (go to the Fees and costs section for more info).

• Boost your CV with work experience opportunities, including an optional placement year, funded internship schemes and community volunteering.

• Learn hands-on in our specialist facilities such as our aquatic suite, GIS lab and ecology, microbiology, molecular biology and tissue culture labs.

• Guaranteed interview scheme with Brighton and Sussex Medical School.

• Active student involvement in biodiversity and sustainability projects – join initiatives like the Hedgehog Friendly Campus, University Mammal Challenge and campus monitoring of plants, birds and habitats. You could also help restore chalk grassland with Sussex Wildlife Trust and enhance campus biodiversity through ponds and habitat improvements.

• Contribute to our research in areas such as micropollutants, invasive species, aquatic environments and the reintroduction of species.

Why Brighton is a great place to study Ecology and Conservation-
Our Moulsecoomb campus puts you at the heart of one of the UK’s most ecologically diverse regions. Just minutes from the South Downs National Park and close to coastal habitats, you’ll have easy access to woodlands, wetlands and marine environments for fieldwork and research.

Brighton is a vibrant, creative city with strong environmental networks and conservation organisations, offering opportunities for volunteering, placements and community projects. Excellent transport links make it simple to reach local nature reserves, national parks and employer events, ensuring field trips and industry engagement are part of everyday learning.

Course Modules

Year 1
Building a strong foundation in ecology and conservation, you’ll develop essential scientific skills, exploring key ecological principles and conservation strategies and diverse terrestrial, marine and freshwater ecosystems. Field trips and site visits introduce practical techniques for surveying habitats and identifying species and you’ll gain core knowledge in genetics, evolution, microbiology and plant biology, learning how organisms adapt. You’ll also develop skills in data analysis, scientific communication and lab techniques to prepare for advanced ecological research and conservation practice.

** Core modules**
Fundamentals of Marine and Freshwater Biology
Essential Skills for Bioscientists
Fundamentals in Genetics and Evolution
Introduction to Microorganisms and Plants
Introduction to Ecology and Conservation
Terrestrial Ecosystems

Year 2
You’ll build advanced knowledge of ecology and conservation and develop technical skills for research and analysis. You’ll study population biology and genetics to understand conservation challenges and explore animal diversity and global aquatic ecosystems with field trips and practical sessions. You’ll gain hands-on experience with GIS and remote sensing for mapping and monitoring habitats. Optional UK or international field courses offer additional training in ecological survey techniques. Research skills and professional development modules prepare you for your final year project and future career.

** Core modules**
GIS and Remote Sensing Principles and Practice
Population Biology for Conservation
Animal Diversity and Adaptations
Research Skills and Professional Development
Marine and Freshwater Ecology

Options*
Applied Conservation Field Course (UK)
Sustainable Futures
Ecology and Conservation International Field course
Environmental Pollution

Optional Placement Year
An optional salaried professional placement with conservation organisations, ecological consultancies or research institutions after year two allows you to apply learning to real projects, develop practical field and analytical skills and build industry contacts, enhancing employability and confidence for your future career.

Year 3
You’ll focus on advanced topics in ecology and conservation and complete an independent research project. You’ll carry out Ecological Impact Assessments, gaining consultancy-style skills in biodiversity surveys, technical reporting and mitigation planning. Modules on species interactions and hot topics in ecology develop understanding of conservation challenges. You can also specialise in areas such as advanced GIS, environmental impact assessment, political ecology and aquatic environments. You’ll also build specialist knowledge, critical thinking and communication skills.

** Core modules**
Ecological Impact Assessment
Ecology Project
Hot Topics in Ecology and Conservation
Species Interactions

Options*
The Frozen Planet
Advanced GIS and Remote Sensing
Independent Study Module
Political Ecology: Contested Environments
Current Topics in Aquatic Environments

Final year
This year centres on a major research project. You’ll develop advanced taxonomy skills for species identification and communicate complex conservation issues in seminars and workshops. Options in GIS, environmental assessment, hydrology, ecotoxicology or water quality management support analytical and consultancy skill development for careers in conservation or research.

** Core modules**
Issues in Ecology and Conservation
Plant and Invertebrate Taxonomy
MSci Research Project

Options*
Introduction to Geographical Information Systems
Environmental Impact Assessment
Case Studies in Environmental Assessment and Management
Hydrology and Pollutant Transport
Applications in GIS
Microbiology, Ecotoxicology and Environmental Remediation
Water Quality Assessment and Management

*Option modules are indicative and may change, depending on timetabling and staff availability.