Program Overview

Ecology

Key Facts

• UCAS Tariff:
• Course duration: 4 years
• Available for September start 2025

Course Overview

This four-year course includes an integrated foundation year, after which the syllabus follows that of the standard three-year course, BSc Ecology (C180).

• At Aberystwyth you will be studying in an area rich in a variety of stunning landscapes, providing excellent fieldwork opportunities in natural and semi-natural habitats and ecosystems including the Cardigan Bay coastline, freshwater environments, woodlands, heaths, moorland and alpine habitats. Many nature reserves are within easy reach, including Snowdonia (Eryri) and the Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog) National Parks.
• Fieldwork and practical classes form an integral part of the course throughout, and you'll engage with local fieldwork using a wealth of local habitats.
• Our teaching staff conduct research in all areas of ecology and in different parts of the world. We have established links with the British Trust for Conservation Volunteers, National Botanic Garden of Wales, Natural Resources Wales, Snowdonia National Park Authority, the RSPB and various wildlife and woodland trusts.

Modules

Year 1

• Communication Skills (BR01520, 20 credits)
• Molecules and Cells (BR01340, 40 credits)
• Organisms and the Environment (BR01440, 40 credits)
• Practical Skills for Biologists (BR01220, 20 credits)

Year 2

• Climate and Climate Change (BR16620, 20 credits)
• Comparative Animal Physiology (BR16720, 20 credits)
• Ecology and Conservation (BR19320, 20 credits)
• Genetics, Evolution and Diversity (BR17120, 20 credits)
• Microbial and Plant Diversity (BR19920, 20 credits)
• Skills for Wildlife Scientists (BR15720, 20 credits)

Year 3

• An Introduction to Landscape Ecology and Geographic Information Systems (BR25520, 20 credits)
• Climate Change: Plants, Animals and Ecosystems (BR21120, 20 credits)
• Research Methods (BR27520, 20 credits)
• Wildlife Surveying (BR29620, 20 credits)

Year 4

• Environmental Regulation and Consultancy (BR35620, 20 credits)
• Population and Community Ecology (BR33920, 20 credits)
• Research Project (BR36440, 40 credits)

Careers

Many of our graduates find employment in conservation and environmental protection, or in environmental education in schools, colleges or nature reserves. Our graduates can be found working for organisations such as DEFRA (Department for Environment Food & Rural Affairs), the Environment Agency, Natural Resources Wales, Natural England, ADAS, Forestry Commission, wildlife trusts, the Wales Environment Link, the National Grid and water authorities.

Teaching & Learning

The course will be delivered through lectures, workshops, tutorials, seminars, field courses and practicals.

Assessment

You'll be assessed through essays, practical exercises, oral presentations, worksheets, experiments reports, conservation plans, statistical exercises, posters, wikis, literature reviews, field notebooks and exams.

Student Testimonials

"The Ecology course at Aberystwyth has provided me with a good set of skills which I can utilise and apply to my current role. The field work part of many modules within the Ecology degree scheme has ensured that I have experience of working in outdoor environments, a necessity for many ecological careers." Pippa

"I am very pleased I chose the degree scheme. Interesting content throughout, great support from the lecturers, and comprehensive feedback. A great choice, no regrets." Alex

Typical Entry Requirements

• UCAS Tariff: Available to candidates without formal qualifications who have suitable background education, experience and motivation
• A Levels: Available to candidates without formal qualifications who have suitable background education, experience and motivation
• GCSE requirements (minimum grade C/4): English or Welsh, Mathematics and Science (minimum grade C/4)
• BTEC National Diploma: Available to candidates without formal qualifications who have suitable background education, experience and motivation
• International Baccalaureate: Available to candidates without formal qualifications who have suitable background education, experience and motivation
• European Baccalaureate: Available to candidates without formal qualifications who have suitable background education, experience and motivation
• English Language Requirements: See our Undergraduate English Language Requirements for this course. Pre-sessional English Programmes are also available for students who do not meet our English Language Requirements.

Country Specific Entry Requirements

International students whose qualification is not listed on this page, can check our Country Specific Entry Requirements for further information.

The University welcomes undergraduate applications from students studying the Access to Higher Education Diploma or T-level qualifications, provided that relevant subject content and learning outcomes are met. We are not able to accept Access to Higher Education Diplomas or T-levels as a general qualification for every undergraduate degree course.
Our inclusive admissions policy values breadth as well as depth of study. Applicants are selected on their own individual merits and offers can vary. If you would like to check the eligibility of your qualifications before submitting an application, please contact the Undergraduate Admissions Office for advice and guidance.