Program Overview

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BSc (Hons) Ecology and Wildlife Conservation

Overview

Are you passionate about wildlife and committed to preserving our natural world? Do you want to be part of the solution to climate change and biodiversity loss? Our Ecology and Wildlife Conservation programme equips you with essential knowledge and practical experience to confront these global challenges.

Course Overview

The course will help you build knowledge, understanding, practical experience, and both digital and transferable skills. You'll explore fundamental ecology, the processes driving global systems that impact all forms of life on Earth, and the scientific foundations of wildlife conservation efforts worldwide.

Key Details

• Recruiting to: UK / RoI / Settled in UK, EU / EEA / International
• Course Location: Ambleside
• Institute: Institute of Science and Environment
• UCAS Code: D510
• Delivery Style: In Person
• Course Duration: Full-time: 3 Years
• Study Options: BSc (Hons) Ecology and Wildlife Conservation IFY, Sandwich Placement, Integrated Foundation Year and Sandwich Placement
• Course Start Point: September
• Award: BSc (Hons)

Entry Requirements

• 104-120 UCAS Tariff Points
• GCSE English Language, Mathematics and Biology or Combined Science at grade 4/C or above
• Functional Skills Level 2 in English and Maths and Adult Literacy and Numeracy are also accepted

Qualifications

• A-levels: BBC - BBB to include 32 points in Biology, Conservation, Environmental Science or Geography
• T-levels: M – T Level Science is accepted for entry to this course
• Access to HE: 21 credits at Distinction, 24 at Merit – Science based
• CACHE Technical Level 3 and Level 3 Extended Diploma: B - Science based
• OCR Cambridge Technical & Edexcel/Pearson BTEC Level 3 (National) Extended Diploma: DMM - to include Biology, Conservation, Environmental Science, Geography or Animal Management
• Scottish Highers: BBBB-AABB to include Biology
• Irish LC Highers: B1, B2x3 – A2, B1x3 to include Biology, Conservation, Environmental Science or Geography

Tuition Fees

• 2025 - 2026: £9,535 - UK, £14,900 - International

Career Outcomes

Jobs that relate directly to an Ecology and Wildlife Conservation degree include:

• Academic (conservation professional)
• Animal handler
• Biodiversity consultant
• Climate scientist
• Conservation adviser/partnership coordinator
• Countryside ranger
• Ecological consultant
• Ecology and monitoring officer
• Ecosystem restoration officer
• Environmental assessor
• Environmental consultant
• Environmental educator
• Field technician
• GIS technician
• Government adviser
• Habitat restoration manager
• Hydrologist
• Marine biologist
• Pollution manager
• Project officer with NGOs such as Wildlife Trusts, WWF, RSPB, etc.
• Public engagement officer
• Research assistant
• Scientific researcher (MSc, PhD and postdoctoral)
• Water resource manager
• Wildlife reserve manager
• Zookeeper

Course Structure

What you will learn

You will develop professional competencies in conservation science including species identification, ecological survey skills, environmental assessment and ecosystem restoration and management in the UK and overseas. You will learn about relevant policy, legislation and environmental standards as well as safe working practices and professional conduct.

Year one

• The Tree of Life
• Skills for Ecology and Wildlife Conservation
• Key Concepts in Conservation Science
• Essentials in Ecology
• Form and Function
• Earth Systems

Year two

• Research Design and Data Analysis
• Ecological Census Techniques
• Genetics and Evolution
• Geographical Information Systems
• Field Ecology and Wildlife Conservation
• Animal Behaviour and Ecology (optional)
• Marine and Freshwater Ecology (optional)

Year three

• Dissertation
• Ecosystem Management
• Environmental Philosophy, Policy and Practice
• Advanced GIS and Remote Sensing (Optional Semester 1)
• Sustainability, Biodiversity and Conservation (Optional Semester 1)
• Behavioural Research in Conservation (Optional Semester 2)
• Marine and Freshwater Conservation (Optional Semester 2)

Teaching & Assessment

How you will learn

Our approach to learning and teaching recognises each student as an individual; as a student at the University of Cumbria, you will be part of an inclusive and diverse learning community. You will have opportunities to interact with others in an interdisciplinary, collaborative, and active learning environment, so you can explore complex issues, positively challenge assumptions and reflect on ways of thinking.

How you will be assessed

Our assessment strategy has been developed to be in line with the University’s Learning, Teaching and Assessment Strategy and the Curriculum Design Framework. The overarching consideration is to provide authentic and inclusive assessments, which develop your skills and knowledge while equipping you for graduate employment, regardless of your background or learning style.

Assessments will therefore often mirror the type of work you will encounter in your future career and may include:

• Laboratory reports
• Field projects
• Computer-based assessments
• Problem solving activities
• Critical analysis of case studies
• Creative oral, audio-visual and poster presentations
• Dissertation research
• Peer and self-assessment
• Group work

Additional Costs

There may be some additional costs associated with the course including stationery, textbooks, field trips and membership fees although some of these features are optional.

• Books and Journals: The University library holds copies of the core textbooks and scientific journals required for the programme, including many as ebooks and digital journals, accessible online.
• Stationery: You will need to provide your own stationery, printing and other basic materials whilst on your course.
• Clothing and Equipment: Essential equipment includes a waterproof jacket and trousers, walking boots, warm hat and gloves, well fitted wellington boots, a rucksack for day use (ideally with waterproof cover), other outdoor clothing e.g. thermals, fleeces, socks, walking trousers, etc.
• Other: The University provides access to desktop computers on campus and there are laptops available in the Barn for students to sign out and use. These are all equipped with appropriate software, but if you wish to bring your own hardware, you can install key software and apps for use on your own devices through the IT Service Desk. Many students also use their smartphones and tablets to support their studies.