Ecology and Conservation Biology

As populations grow and human activities threaten the natural world, ecology and conservation biology has never been more important. With this degree, you’ll discover how we sustain biodiversity, and the fundamental importance of the ecological processes involved.

On this course, you’ll gain cutting-edge knowledge and develop your skills and experience in ecology and conservation, from your doorstep to the globe. With exciting field courses in wonderful landscapes, to observations of animal behaviour in the lab, you’ll learn how to measure the distribution and abundance of different species, how organisms interact with each other and their environment, and be challenged to think creatively about the application of ecology to conservation problems. Personalise your degree by choosing from a wide choice of optional modules, including animal behaviour, evolution, climate change science, sustainability, and environmental law.

This integrated Masters (MBiol) gives you an additional year of specialist training, to study advanced research topics and undertake your own extended research project. You may also choose to apply for our 3-year BSc and transfer to an MBiol up until the end of your second year, subject to suitable academic performance.

Course highlights

• One of the broadest ecology degree programmes with optional modules from across the University, which will build your knowledge of ecology and conservation from a wide perspective.

• Gain experience in a wide range of ecological and conservation contexts through specialised modules, field courses and research projects.

• Develop your practical field-based skills by confronting different ecological problems and conservation issues during residential field courses in Spain and Scotland, as well as an optional field course in South Africa.

• Learn about sustainable cities and the value of biodiversity on your own doorstep during the urban ecology field course.

• One year of additional specialist training culminating in an original, cutting-edge extended research project that will equip you with the skills necessary for a research career and set you apart in the graduate job market.