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Course structure

Over the course of your degree, you will study core themes in ecology, evolution and diversity, leading to applied elements of ecology such as wildlife conservation and habitat and species techniques. In the final year you will have the opportunity to undertake a research project and develop an area of specialism of your choice.

You will learn through lectures, fieldwork, group work, laboratory classes and independent study. Assessment involves the use of essays, exams, oral presentations and problem-based exercises, which can vary depending on which options you choose.

The course offers a number of field trips to complement your university-based study, including an optional trip to South Africa. Fieldwork is used to contextualise the taught material through real-world activities and provide valuable practical experience.

Our expert staff will support your subject-specific knowledge development and teach you the research, technical, practical and transferable skills that you need to maximise your career prospects. 

Year 1

You will explore the foundations of ecology covering skills for bioscientists, genetics and molecular biology, ecology and conservation, terrestrial ecosystems, and diversity of life.

Modules

• Fundamentals of Marine and Freshwater Biology

  This module introduces the principles of marine and freshwater biology by examining the evolution  and diversity of aquatic flora and fauna. You'll focus on physical and chemical aspects of aquatic ecosystems, their impact on the populations of organisms that live in the ecosystems, and how organisms adapt to their environments. Practical sessions will cover methods for collecting, handling and analysing scientific data, as well as developing effective science communication skills.

• Essential Skills for Bioscientists

  This module introduces the principles of the scientific method and a variety of study and communication skills that you’ll need during your degree. You’ll develop mathematical and statistical skills and apply them in the context of bioscientific data presentation and interpretation.

• Fundamentals in Genetics and Evolution

  Genetics is fundamental to understanding life sciences. In this module you will gain an understanding of how information is stored and inherited in living organisms. You will consider genetics from the perspectives of DNA structure, gene expression, genome replication, heredity, genes in populations, and evolution. You'll also be introduced to DNA-based laboratory techniques. 

• Introduction to Microorganisms and Plants

  This module looks at the classification of the living world, focusing on the structures and patterns in microorganisms and plants. You'll explore taxonomic groups considering of key features, increased complexity of structure, and their ecological role and importance. You'll develop an integrated approach to the diversity of these organisms, linking evolutionary theory with biology, form and function of organisms.

• Introduction to Ecology and Conservation

  This module will introduce you to key concepts and principles in both ecology and conservation science – illustrated with case studies. The links between ecology and conservation and also between theory and applied research are emphasised

• Terrestrial Ecosystems

  This module will introduce you to major terrestrial natural and semi-natural habitats, covering key ecological and biological processes that structure these systems. You will reflect on the conservation challenges and management strategies used to maintain and restore these habitats. You'll also learn about, and use, field-based techniques during field trips and local site visits.

Year 2 

In your second year you will cover research skills, professional development, physiology of organisms, managing populations in ecology and conservation, marine and freshwater ecosystems and a field trip to Portugal. You can also choose from a range of options including fieldwork in South Africa.

Modules

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

Options*

• Climate Change
• Sustainable Futures
• Applied Conservation Field Course (UK)
• Environmental Pollution
• Ecology and Conservation International Field Course

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

Placement year 

There are many advantages of spending a placement year working in industry, or research. It can help you to:

• apply your learning to real-life situations and challenges
• learn new skills which can help in your career
• explore specialisms to gain better understanding of what you want to do
• gain vital work experience and build your network of professional contacts
• come back for your final year more focused, more organised and more confident.

Our students have been on placement with organisations including the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew, Paignton Zoo, the Sea Life Centre and the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation.

Year 3

You will study species interactions, ecological impact assessment, hot topics in ecology and conservation, and undertake an ecology research project. Option modules enable you to choose the subjects that interest you most.

Modules

• Ecology Project
• Ecological Impact Assessment
• Species Interactions
• Hot Topics in Ecology and Conservation

Options*

• The Humans of Ice Age Britain
• Advanced GIS and Remote Sensing
• Biology Independent Study
• Political Ecology: Contested Environments
• Current Topics in Aquatic Environments

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

Final year

The focus of your final year is an in-depth research project, working with an academic expert. 

You will further explore the issues of ecology and conservation, advanced taxonomy and survey skills, and choose an option module in an area of interest.

Modules

• Research Project
• Issues in Ecology and Conservation
• Plant and Invertebrate Taxonomy

Options*

• Introduction to Geographical Information Systems
• Environmental Impact Assessment
• Case Studies in Environment Assessment and Management
• Hydrology and Pollutant Transport
• Applications in Geographical Information Systems
• Microbiology, Ecotoxicology and Environmental Remediation
• Water Quality Assessment and Management
• Ecology and Conservation in Practice (work placement)

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

Course fees

The fees listed here are for the first year of full-time study if you start your course in the academic year 2025–26.

You will pay fees for each year of your course. Some fees may increase each year.

UK undergraduate and some postgraduate fees are regulated by the UK government and increases will not be more than the maximum amount allowed. Course fees that are not regulated may increase each year by up to 5% or RPI (whichever is higher).

If you are studying part-time your fee will usually be calculated based on the number of modules that you take.

Find out more

• ¹ú²ú̽»¨ Boost – cost of living help for our new undergrad students. Find out about how we can help with your study, accommodation or travel costs and more...
• Fees, bursaries, scholarships and government funding info for UK and international undergraduate students
• Student finance and budgeting while studying
• Read our student contract and (pdf) for more on ¹ú²ú̽»¨ tuition fees.

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