Ecology and Conservation Biology BSc (Hons)

Our BSc Ecology and Conservation Biology course explores the interactions between humans, animals, plants and the Earth’s atmosphere that determine their abundance, distribution and activities. You’ll learn about human impact on ecological interactions, climate change, biodiversity and sustainability, as well as what we can do to manage natural resources in the face of changing environments. And our course comes with lots of options. You might add an extra year of research experience with an integrated masters, or gain valuable work experience as a recognised part of your degree by spending a year on placement.All of our students study an essential set of core modules designed to give you the skills that every professional ecologist needs. Alongside these you'll have the opportunity to study optional modules that span plant sciences and zoology. You can mix and match these modules, covering genetics for conservation, animal behaviour and physiology, ecotoxicology, food-web network ecology and the microbial diversity of soils, underpinned by the latest research discoveries from our experts.In your first year you’ll spend your first week on a field course in Sheffield, collecting and analysing data throughout the city’s green spaces and out to the edge of the Peak District. Throughout the year you’ll develop practical skills in the lab, including microscopy and genetics, complemented by regular field trips to zoos, aquariums and nature reserves. You’ll also have lectures and take part in small group tutorials where you’ll enhance your writing, data analysis and presentation skills as you learn about the latest research findings from our world-leading academics.In your second year, your modules will cover more advanced scientific topics and techniques across ecology and conservation biology. Some students choose to take our science communication module ‘Talking the Talk: Getting Science on Film’ where you’ll get the chance to make your own factual science documentaries, with support and advice from professional filmmakers. All of our ecology and conservation biology students receive training in modern data analysis techniques and get the opportunity to go on an optional two-week long field course between second and third year, giving you the chance to design and carry out your own research and develop an understanding of the ecology and biodiversity of different habitats across the globe.In your third year you'll complete a research project and dissertation in an area of ecology and conservation biology that interests you alongside your chosen specialist modules. Conducted under the supervision of one of our world experts, you'll work in a small group to define questions, develop experimental protocols, conduct the research, analyse the data and ultimately produce a written report in the form of a scientific publication.The demand for skilled ecologists has expanded in recent years within industry, research, education and beyond. Our graduates go into careers across conservation, research, marketing, human resources, science communication and teaching, using their sought after transferrable skills in data analysis, project management and teamwork to thrive in a range of organisations. Each year our graduates join conservation and environmental consultancies, wildlife trusts, museums, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, and local, national and international government. Many also go on to do PhDs.If you want to study ecology and conservation biology, but don't meet the entry requirements to go straight into the first year, our Biosciences with Foundation Year could be for you. After successfully completing the one-year programme, you'll progress onto the first year of your chosen degree.