BSc (Hons) Wildlife, Ecology and Conservation Science (with Foundation Year)

Program Overview

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BSc (Hons) Wildlife, Ecology and Conservation Science (with Foundation Year)

Overview

The natural world is as fragile as it is fascinating. If you share our passion for understanding and conserving nature and wildlife, this course is ideal for you, and opens the door to many established and emerging careers.

The Foundation Year allows students with less science-oriented backgrounds a pathway into the BSc (Hons) Wildlife, Ecology and Conservation Science degree. Students study essential study skills in the sciences, essential principles of biology, and ecology. Additionally, students receive practical training in field research skills, taking advantage of the biodiverse reserves and natural environments around Suffolk.

This course will give you the opportunity to study zoology, ecology, environmental and conservation science, in one of the UK’s renowned wildlife hotspots. You will learn specialist skills such as wildlife surveying, GIS mapping, primatology and ornithology, with opportunities to travel to the Scottish Highlands, South Africa and the Peruvian Amazon.

Unlike similar existing degrees, this is a multidisciplinary course that will also provide you with a firm foundation in modern biology and laboratory research techniques to equip you with the skills required to pursue careers in emerging new areas.

This course enables you to share your passion for understanding and conserving nature and wildlife and opens the door to many established and emerging careers. We draw on a range of related disciplines to bring the subject to life, covering aspects of animal and plant ecology, marine and freshwater biology, animal behaviour, and environmental and conservation science.

While at the University of Suffolk you will benefit from close working relationships with a highly qualified and research active international teaching team and interact with numerous wildlife and conservation organisations, including Suffolk Wildlife Trust, Colchester Zoo, the RSPB, the Environment Agency, and the Field Studies Council (FSC).

The course aligns with the criteria for future accreditation with the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) and the Royal Society of Biology and addresses the current knowledge and skills shortages within the sector, as identified by CIEEM and the Natural Environment Research Council.

The University of Suffolk has an international profile while being committed to our region. We are proudly modern and innovative and we believe in transformative education. We are on the rise with a focus on student satisfaction, graduate prospects, spending on academic services and student facilities.

2nd in the East of England for graduate prospects

The Complete University Guide 2024

6th in the UK for spend on academic services

The Complete University Guide 2023

11th in the UK for social inclusion

The Good University Guide 2023

Course Modules

Our undergraduate programmes are delivered as 'block and blend' — more information can be found on Why Suffolk? You can also watch our Block and Blend video.

Downloadable information regarding all University of Suffolk courses, including Key Facts, Course Aims, Course Structure and Assessment, is available in the Definitive Course Record.

Professional Placement

You can opt to include a professional placement year during your course to gain professional experience and relevant practical skills to enhance your prospects of securing graduate employment. This would mean your course length would change from three years full-time to four years full-time.

Downloadable information regarding all University of Suffolk courses, including Key Facts, Course Aims, Course Structure and Assessment, is available in the Definitive Course Record.

Select course year Foundation, Year 1, Year 2, Year 3

Scientific Study Skills

This module will develop your skills in written and oral communication, and the study skills needed for undergraduate work.

Mathematics for Science

Aimed at those without an ‘A-Level’ Mathematics and/or 'return to learning' students, this module aims to develop the students’ skills and increase their confidence in using mathematics in general; and in particular in the application of mathematics to health and life sciences.

Investigative Project

In this module you will take on a project on a topic that interests you in wildlife, ecology or conservation, collecting data in the field and analysing it to draw your own conclusions. Past projects have included bird, insect, and fungi surveys.

Principles of Biology

This module will enable the students to develop the knowledge and practical skills that will prepare them for undergraduate studies in biological sciences and related subjects. This module considers the structure and function of major biological molecules and biochemical systems.

Zoology

This module provides an essential background to whole organism zoology and ecology. We examine how natural selection has shaped the diverse physical and behavioural adaptations that we find in wildlife across the globe.

Introduction to Field Research

This module is predominantly outside at local field sites in Suffolk, and includes an introduction to biological sampling and the key measures used in ecology. Students will improve their species identification skills while learning sampling methods for terrestrial and aquatic plants, birds and invertebrates.

Cell Biology and Genetics (Mandatory)

In this module, we will examine the structure and function of the subcellular components of microbial, plant and animal cells, and explore the genetic principles that are central to our understanding of inheritance, organismal diversity and evolution.

Scientific Skills (Mandatory)

This module will provide you with the core skills required to carry out basic scientific procedures and communicate their research in an appropriate scientific format. The module is based on a series of practical sessions and is designed to develop the skills required for subsequent advanced modules on the course.

Environmental Science (Mandatory)

This module is designed to provide an understanding of the environmental challenges facing the world’s ecosystems. The module will examine the human impact on natural habitats, aquatic and terrestrial life and introduce how to balance society’s needs with the sustainability of the environment.

Diversity of Life (Mandatory)

This module gives students a broad overview of life on earth. It follows the development from the first basic cells through to modern animals and plants. Students will gain an appreciation of the process of evolution through natural selection and the classification of species.

Ecology (Mandatory)

Understanding how individuals, populations and communities interact with each other and their environment is essential for successful management of natural resources and the protection of species, habitats and ecosystems. The module includes fieldtrips to learn key surveying skills for measuring wildlife populations.

Practical Field Research Skills

This field-based module trains students in techniques used by ecological consultancies to carry out ecological surveys. We will visit some of the best local wildlife sites and learn how to track and identify British wildlife species. We do amphibian and reptile surveys, small mammal trapping, bat surveys, otter and water vole surveys and others.

Principles of Conservation

This module introduces the theoretical concepts of conservation, and students explore how these shape strategies for managing and conserving biodiversity globally, and in the UK. Students will visit local conservation areas in the United Kingdom as part of the module.

Research Methods and Statistics (Mandatory)

Scientists need to understand how experimentation, qualitative and quantitative analysis drives science forward via the process of attempted falsification and how this is quantified and presented. This module prepares students for further study and employment by providing an understanding of research design, inferential statistical analysis of scientific data.

Adaptive Physiology (Mandatory)

In this module we will study the specialised anatomical features and physiology that allow animals to survive in some of the most challenging environments. We will explore the relationship between form and function and compare and contrast the anatomy and physiology of a wide range of animal groups.

Zoological Management (Requisite)

Delivered at Colchester Zoo, this module will explore both scientific and management principles that are central to the role that zoos play in conservation biology. Emphasis is placed on current zoo husbandry techniques, modern enclosure design, good management practice, and co-ordination of breeding programmes for endangered species. Throughout the module, you will encounter a wide range of zoo species housed at Colchester Zoo, including primates, carnivores, ungulates, birds, and reptiles.

Habitat Surveying and GIS mapping (Optional)

Mapping and GIS skills are some of the most cited requirements for jobs in the environmental sector. On this module, students will learn transferable GIS skills on widely used open-source GIS mapping software. We will learn globally transferable mapping skills using local habitats and the British classifications as a model. Students will learn the ‘UK Habitats’ classification system in demand at wildlife NGOs and ecological consultancies across the country, and ‘Biodiversity Net Gain’ (BNG) calculations that governments, councils, ecological consultancies and wildlife NGOs require. In doing so, students will learn how to map, measure and represent habitats and features – skills that are used in a wide range of profession and countries.

Animal Behaviour (Optional)

This course will introduce students to the diversity, underlying mechanism, development, and functions of a wide range of animal behaviour, for example feeding, anti-predation, mating, parental care, and social interaction. Students will learn how studies on animal behaviour assist biodiversity conservation.

The World in Data (Optional)

The module will provide an overview of the major contemporary data analysis methodologies available to ecologists and provide students with the opportunity to develop their skills in statistical analysis, geographic information system and data visualisation. Students will develop the basic statistical techniques taught within “ Research Methods and Data Analysis ” and use commonly used statistical techniques in ecology, e.g.,GLMs, using a variety of environments (e.g., R, QGIS). The module will focus on using real world examples techniques to introduce students to data analysis in an applied context and introduce the basic principles of programming.

Plant Biology (Optional)

Plants have also been identified as the champion of the impending green revolution aiming to limit climate change by altering the balance of greenhouse gases. This module gives students in the life sciences an understanding of the natural history of plants, the biodiversity, metabolism, cell biology, genetics and morphology.

Microbial Organisms (Optional)

The aim of this module is to provide the students with an introduction to the biology of microorganisms, highlighting some key properties and applications of selected microbial organisms, particularly bacteria and viruses. Students will learn about the structural, biological and molecular characteristics of major microorganisms, and the significance of microbes for nutrient cycling and health and disease.

Marine and Freshwater Biology

In this module we will study the diverse range of life that inhabit aquatic environments and explore the issues involved in the management, conservation and restoration of aquatic resources. The module will include lectures, laboratory sessions, and short-field visits to a diverse range of local aquatic environments where you will be introduced to a range of field skills relevant to marine and freshwater biology.

Dissertation

Students often regards their dissertation research project as a highlight of their degree. While students exercise their newly developed skills in wildlife, ecology and conservation science, they are closely guided by a leading researcher in their field and can join an active research program. Past students have produced original research on bat populations in the UK, pollinator conservation, mammal distributions in Amazonia, insect evolution in response to climate change, pollution in UK rivers and camera trap research on British farms, to name but a few. The dissertation can turn a student into a genuine expert in their chosen subject.

Professional development for Life Sciences (Mandatory)

This module will develop the necessary skills required to maximise students’ success following graduation in the Life Sciences. In this module students will explore the numerous career paths available for life science graduates. Our graduates regularly report that this module was instrumental in securing them a job.

Ecotoxicology (Optional)

To understand the impact of human activity on wildlife it is essential to understand how pollutants released into the environment affect individual organisms, populations, communities and entire ecosystems. Ecotoxicology is a highly interdisciplinary subject and will build upon the environmental science, ecology, animal physiology, molecular and cellular biology and conservation biology studied in previous modules.

Contemporary Topics in Wildlife Conservation

Many wildlife species are threatened by anthropogenic activities. This module will introduce various contemporary issues in global wildlife conservation. Through learning these issues, students will have an enhanced understanding of the rationales and challenges in wildlife conservation. Case studies will drawn on the most recent issues and research on invasive species, wildlife trade, overharvesting and sustainable extraction, community-based conservation and conservation technology

Marine and Freshwater Biology

This module provides knowledge of the biology, ecology and conservation of fishes, aquatic reptiles, mammals and habitats. Students will learn marine mammal survey methods, and research the management and restoration of aquatic habitats.

Primatology (Optional)

This module will introduce students to the popular and competitive field of primate research and conservation. This module will be taught in an intensive 10-day field trip to the Tambopata Research Centre in the Peruvian Amazon. In the mornings students will complete fieldwork on trails around the centre, and in the afternoons, students will receive training in methods and guidance in interpreting their observations. This module is expected to incur an additional cost to the student for flights and accommodation but is likely to be subsidised by Rainforest Expeditions and the University of Suffolk if student numbers are sufficient.

Ornithology (Optional)

Suffolk has some of the foremost sites for birds in the UK and benefits from a wealth of local expertise. This module takes advantage of the internationally important wetlands and bird reserves in the region, including RSPB Minsmere. Bird ringing will be done under licence with local experts. Ecological consultancies need competent ornithologists for surveys, and this module will set students on the right path to learn these skills.

Entomology (Optional)

Insects far surpass all other terrestrial animals in numbers, biomass, and diversity, and are fundamental to the conservation of biodiversity and food security globally. We believe entomology is so essential to an education in ecology and conservation that it is embedded in many of our mandatory modules. This unique specialist module builds on this foundation to provide ecologists with an in depth understanding of insects and entomology, and arms them with genuine specialist skills and employability in the sector.

Entry Requirements

2024/25

80 UCAS Points (or above)

• CDD
• MMP (BTEC)
• Pass A*-C (T Level)
• Pass in Access to HE Diploma.

All applicants are required to hold GCSE English and Maths at Grade C/4 or above (or Level 2 equivalents). Applicants who do not hold these qualifications may be considered on an individual basis based upon their overall application and the course applied for.

IELTS 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components) where English is not the student's first language.

Please select your country of permanent residence from the list below, specific requirements for your country will then be shown.

If you have previously studied at higher education level before you may be able to transfer credits to a related course at the University of Suffolk and reduce the period of study time necessary to achieve your degree.

Career Opportunities

This degree will give you the opportunity to follow many career paths. From research in universities, research organisations and museums to working for non-governmental organisations such as the National Trust, RSPB or the WWF. Other opportunities include:

• Planning Consultants
• Conservationists
• Science writers
• Agri-tech
• Sustainability Management
• Opportunities in Wildlife Parks and Zoos
• Government Agencies

Your Course Team

Dr Mark Bowler

Mark is Course Leader in Wildlife, Ecology and Conservation Science. He works on wildlife distributions and the effects of human activity on animal populations.

Hei Sung

Hei is a lecturer in wildlife and conservation at the School of Allied Health Sciences, joining in August 2023.

Dr Christopher Turner

Christopher is Head of Life Science. His research studies animals at all levels, from their molecular and cell biology to their behaviour and ecology.

Cátia Marques

Catia is Course Leader in the BSc (Hons) Dental Hygiene and Dental Therapy and has worked in cell research in several laboratories across Europe.

Richard Farrar

Richard teaches and leads a number of modules on the School’s undergraduate programmes including BSc Nutrition and Human Health.

Dr Nick Tucker

Nick Tucker is Associate Dean and lecturer for Biomedical Sciences and is a molecular microbiologist interested in the biology of Pseudomonas bacteria.

Fees and Funding

2025/26

UK Full-time Tuition Fee

£9,535 per year

UK Part-time Tuition Fees

£2,384* per 30 credit module

International Full-time Tuition Fee

£15,690 per year

*Please contact Student Centre for further information on part-time fees

The decision to study a degree is an investment into your future, there are various means of support available to you in order to help fund your tuition fees and living costs. You can apply for funding from the Spring before your course starts.

Ipswich Award

The University of Suffolk is offering a £1,000 Award for students joining the University of Suffolk’s Ipswich campus. The Award is based on specific eligibility criteria based on your year of entry.

Facilities and Resources

Whatever you choose to study, you will learn in state-of-the-art surroundings. We have invested across the University to create an environment showcasing the latest teaching facilities enabling you to achieve great things.

Every teaching room has state-of-the-art AV equipment enhancing students learning experience and spread across the open study areas there are approximately 50 iMacs. The dual function technology allows students to choose between Microsoft Windows and Apple Mac software, allowing students to utilise the technology that best supports their chosen field of study.

The Waterfront Building supports flexible learning with open study on all floors, where students can access networked computers.

How to Apply

To study this course on a full-time basis, you can apply through UCAS. As well as providing your academic qualifications, you’ll be able to showcase your skills, qualities and passion for the subject.

Related Courses

BSc (Hons) Wildlife, Ecology and Conservation Science

If you share our passion for understanding and conserving nature and wildlife, this course is ideal for you, and opens the door to many established and emerging careers.

Program Outline

It provides a comprehensive education in zoology, ecology, environmental and conservation science, equipping students with the skills needed for a variety of careers in the field. It also incorporates modern biology and laboratory research techniques, preparing students for emerging areas within the field. The program is multidisciplinary, drawing on related disciplines like animal and plant ecology, marine and freshwater biology, animal behavior, and environmental and conservation science. Students benefit from close collaboration with a highly qualified and research-active international teaching team and interact with numerous wildlife and conservation organizations, including Suffolk Wildlife Trust, Colchester Zoo, the RSPB, the Environment Agency, and the Field Studies Council (FSC).

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Outline:

The program is structured as a four-year full-time course, including a Foundation Year for students with less science-oriented backgrounds. The Foundation Year focuses on essential study skills in the sciences, essential principles of biology, and ecology, along with practical training in field research skills.

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Year 1:

• Scientific Study Skills: Develops written and oral communication skills and study skills needed for undergraduate work.
• Mathematics for Science: Aimed at students without an ‘A-Level’ Mathematics or 'return to learning' students, this module develops mathematical skills and confidence in applying mathematics to health and life sciences.
• Investigative Project: Students undertake a project on a topic of interest in wildlife, ecology, or conservation, collecting data in the field and analyzing it to draw conclusions.
• Principles of Biology: Develops knowledge and practical skills in biological sciences, focusing on the structure and function of major biological molecules and biochemical systems.
• Zoology: Provides an essential background to whole organism zoology and ecology, examining how natural selection has shaped diverse physical and behavioral adaptations in wildlife.
• Introduction to Field Research: Field-based module introducing biological sampling and key measures used in ecology.
• Scientific Skills (Mandatory): Develops core skills for carrying out basic scientific procedures and communicating research in a scientific format.
• Environmental Science (Mandatory): Provides an understanding of environmental challenges facing ecosystems, examining human impact on natural habitats and introducing sustainability principles.
Students gain an appreciation of evolution through natural selection and species classification. Includes field trips for surveying skills.
• Practical Field Research Skills: Field-based module training students in ecological survey techniques used by consultancies.
Includes visits to local wildlife sites and learning to track and identify British wildlife species.
• Principles of Conservation: Introduces theoretical concepts of conservation and explores strategies for managing and conserving biodiversity globally and in the UK.
Includes visits to local conservation areas.

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Year 3:

• Adaptive Physiology (Mandatory): Studies specialized anatomical features and physiology that allow animals to survive in challenging environments, exploring the relationship between form and function.
Focuses on zoo husbandry techniques, enclosure design, management practices, and breeding programs for endangered species.
• Habitat Surveying and GIS mapping (Optional): Teaches transferable GIS skills on open-source software, focusing on mapping and representing habitats and features.
Includes learning the ‘UK Habitats’ classification system and ‘Biodiversity Net Gain’ (BNG) calculations.
• Animal Behaviour (Optional): Introduces the diversity, mechanisms, development, and functions of animal behavior, including feeding, anti-predation, mating, parental care, and social interaction.
• Marine and Freshwater Biology: Studies the diverse range of life in aquatic environments and explores management, conservation, and restoration of aquatic resources.
Includes lectures, laboratory sessions, and field visits.
• Dissertation: Students conduct original research in their chosen area of wildlife, ecology, or conservation science, guided by a leading researcher.
• Professional development for Life Sciences (Mandatory): Develops skills for success after graduation in the Life Sciences, exploring career paths available to life science graduates.
• Ecotoxicology (Requisite): Examines how pollutants affect individual organisms, populations, communities, and ecosystems, building upon previous modules in environmental science, ecology, animal physiology, and conservation biology.
• Contemporary Topics in Wildlife Conservation: Introduces contemporary issues in global wildlife conservation, including invasive species, wildlife trade, overharvesting, community-based conservation, and conservation technology.
• Marine and Freshwater Biology: Provides knowledge of the biology, ecology, and conservation of fishes, aquatic reptiles, mammals, and habitats.
Includes learning marine mammal survey methods and research on aquatic habitat management and restoration.
• Primatology (Optional): Introduces primate research and conservation through an intensive 10-day field trip to the Tambopata Research Centre in the Peruvian Amazon.
Includes fieldwork and training in methods.
• Ornithology (Optional): Takes advantage of Suffolk's bird reserves, including RSPB Minsmere, to teach bird ringing and other ornithological skills.
• Entomology (Optional): Provides an in-depth understanding of insects and entomology, equipping students with specialist skills and employability in the sector.

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Assessment:

The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods, including:

• Exams: Evaluates understanding of theoretical concepts and knowledge.
• Coursework: Assesses practical skills, research abilities, and critical thinking.
• Fieldwork: Evaluates practical skills and data collection abilities in real-world settings.
• Presentations: Develops communication skills and the ability to present research findings.
• Dissertation: Demonstrates independent research abilities, critical thinking, and writing skills.

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Teaching:

The program employs a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures: Provides foundational knowledge and theoretical frameworks.
• Seminars: Facilitates discussion and critical analysis of topics.
• Practical sessions: Develops practical skills and hands-on experience.
• Fieldwork: Provides real-world experience and data collection opportunities.
• Guest lectures: Brings in experts from the field to share their knowledge and perspectives.

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Careers:

The program prepares students for a variety of careers in wildlife, ecology, and conservation, including:

• Research: Positions in universities, research organizations, and museums.
• Conservation: Roles in non-governmental organizations like the National Trust, RSPB, or WWF.
• Planning Consultants: Working on environmental impact assessments and sustainable development projects.
• Science Writers: Communicating scientific findings to the public.
• Agri-tech: Developing sustainable agricultural practices.
• Sustainability Management: Implementing sustainability strategies in various sectors.
• Wildlife Parks and Zoos: Working in animal care, conservation, or education.
• Government Agencies: Contributing to environmental policy and management.

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Other:

• The program is delivered using a 'block and blend' approach, combining online and in-person learning.
• Students can opt to include a professional placement year during their course to gain practical experience and enhance their employability.
• The University of Suffolk is committed to providing a supportive learning environment, with access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources.

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UK Full-time Tuition Fee £9,250 per year UK Part-time Tuition Fee £1,454 per 20 credit module International Full-time Tuition Fee £15,210 per year