Program Overview

Overview of the Ecology and Conservation BSc (Hons) Program

The Ecology and Conservation BSc (Hons) program is delivered by the Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology, an award-winning research center. This undergraduate course is the longest running conservation course in the UK, focusing on natural science areas such as ecology, wildlife survey methods, rewilding, wildlife management, conservation biology, biogeography, and conservation genetics. The program also explores the human dimensions of conservation, including climate change, environmental sustainability, species reintroduction, working with rural communities, human-wildlife conflict, and conservation policy.

Key Information

• Start Date: September 2026
• Location: Canterbury
• Study Mode: 3 years full-time, 6 years part-time
• Fees (per year):
  • UK: TBC
  • International: £23,500
• Typical Offer: BBB / 104-120 UCAS points
• Other Course Options: Year in Professional Practice, Year Abroad

The Course

The program is designed to provide students with knowledge and skills in conservation and ecology, enabling them to make a real difference in the world. The curriculum includes field ecology methods, human dimensions of conservation, international biodiversity frameworks, rewilding, climate change, and work with rural communities. Students acquire skills in collecting data to understand threats to biodiversity, establish conservation priorities, and inform decision-making.

Stage 1

Compulsory modules include:

• Diversity of Life
• Biodiversity and Conservation
• The Anthropocene
• Principles in Ecology and Biogeography
• Ecological Survey Methods
• Practical Data Analysis and Interpretation

Stage 2

Compulsory modules include:

• Applied Ecology and Conservation
• Key Issues in Conservation Science
• Geographical Information Systems (GIS)
• Practical Data Analysis and Interpretation Optional modules may include:
• Animal Form and Function
• Environmental Policy and Practice
• Environment and Development
• Plant Biology
• Methods and Field Work in Social Science

Stage 3

Compulsory modules include:

• Research Project
• Contemporary Issues in Conservation and Geography Optional modules may include:
• Tropical Conservation Science Field Course
• Climate Change and Conservation
• Saving Endangered Species
• Evolutionary Ecology and Conservation Genetics
• Human Wildlife Conflict
• Sustainable Agriculture

Entry Requirements

• UK: 104-120 UCAS points, A level BBB including one of Biology, Geography, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Psychology, Geology, Physics, Maths or any Joint Science at grade B or above.
• International: 120 Tariff points from your IB Diploma, Typically H5, H6, H6 or equivalent.
• English Language Requirements: Good level of English language, equivalent to B2 on CEFR.

Fees and Funding

• Tuition Fees for 2026 Entry:
  • UK: TBC
  • International: £23,500
• Fees for Year in Industry: £1,905
• Fees for Year Abroad: £1,430
• General Information: For details of when and how to pay fees and charges, please see the Student Finance Guide.

Your Future

The conservation and environmental sector is an expanding area for employment opportunities. Employers include ecological surveying, local, regional, and national government departments, conservation organizations, and the private sector, as well as international conservation and environmental organizations. Graduates have found work as ecological officers, conservation advisors, senior officers, and in various roles in wildlife trusts, zoos, and environmental agencies.

Additional Information

• The University will consider applications from students holding a wide range of qualifications.
• The University will assess your fee status as part of the application process.
• For more information, please read the terms and conditions.