Program Overview

Aberystwyth University's degree in Biology and Climate Change addresses one of the key challenges of contemporary living, namely Climate Change and its impacts on life on our planet. In this degree, you will learn what gives rise to the Earth’s climate, and the various factors driving climate change. You will study the impacts of these changes on the living world, from organisms to entire ecosystems, and their implications for the conservation of biodiversity. During your course, you will learn a range practical laboratory and field-based skills alongside the theoretical knowledge that underpins the subject. In some modules, you will also work alongside students from other Departments (International Politics, Business, and English and Creative Writing) to further enhance your subject-specific knowledge with the multi-disciplinary skills and attributes necessary to make a real change in the world. The BSc Biology and Climate Change (with an integrated year in industry) will enable you to study the science underpinning climate, and how humans have changed these processes in recent times. You will explore the impacts of climate change on biodiversity at the level of species, habitats, and ecosystems, and the scope for organisms and populations to evolve in the light of this threat. By working across disciplines, you will learn the need for both scientific research and governance in tackling these important issues. Specialist opportunities at Aberystwyth for Biology and Climate Change students include:- The great variety of local habitats and ecosystems, both marine and terrestrial – an ideal location to study the impacts of climate change on biodiversity, and the scope for mitigation- The chance to carry out field research, both locally and abroad- An opportunity to work with established Academic researchers who work on various aspects of the past, present and future effects of global climate change on natural ecosystems.This is a four-year course, and during the duration of this degree, you will study from a varied curriculum. In your first year, you will explore: The Science of Climate; The Biosphere; Introduction to Conservation; The Green Planet; Evolution and Diversity of Life; Ecology; Microbial Diversity; Study and Communication Skills; Climate Change: Impacts, Perceptions, Adaptations. In the second year, there are a number of diverse modules from you choose from, which include: Climate Change: Plants, Animals, and Ecosystems; The Governance of Climate Change; Research Methods. In the third year, you will undertake your work experience placement. This may be paid or unpaid, but students are encouraged to find their placements independently. In your fourth and final year, you will have the opportunity to study Global Biodiversity Conservation; Research Project. Graduates studying this degree will be well-placed to pursue a career in climate change management, adaptation, and mitigation, both in the UK and abroad. Additionally, they will be suited to careers in related areas, such as environmental education and consultancy or conservation. Many are likely to undertake further postgraduate study, either at Masters or Doctoral level.