Program Overview

Introduction to BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour and Conservation

The BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour and Conservation degree at Manchester Metropolitan University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of animal behaviour and conservation biology. This program explores the complex interactions between animals and their environments, equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute to the conservation of species and their habitats.

Course Overview

The BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour and Conservation degree is a three-year full-time program, with options to extend to four years with a placement or study abroad. The course is structured to provide a thorough grounding in biology, animal behaviour, and ecology, with a focus on the application of theoretical knowledge to real-world conservation issues.

Key Features

• Explore the topics and issues that shape the world around us and choose from a range of exciting and rewarding specialisms within animal behaviour, conservation, and biology.
• Spend a year studying overseas in Europe, North America, or Australasia, or boost career prospects with a 9-12 month placement.
• Develop practical skills in the laboratory and in the field, both in the UK and overseas.
• Learn in high-specification laboratories and facilities, including specialist equipment for studying animal behaviour and physiology.
• Strong links to zoological, conservation, and other animal organisations, including Chester Zoo and the RSPCA.

Course Structure

The program is divided into three years, each with a distinct focus:

Year 1

• Provides a thorough grounding in all aspects of biology, including core biology, animal behaviour, and ecology modules.
• Typical areas of study may include organismal behaviour, evolutionary genetics, and biodiversity.
• Modules include Cells and Microorganisms, Evolution, Exploring Biodiversity, and Introduction to Organismal Behaviour.

Year 2

• Explores the fundamentals of conservation biology, animal behaviour, and community ecology.
• Modules include Professional Skills in Animal Behaviour and Conservation, Landscape and Community Ecology, Functions and Mechanisms of Behaviour, and Conservation Biology.

Year 3

• Offers the option to spend a year on placement or studying abroad.
• For those who choose to remain on the standard pathway, the final year enables specialization in animal behaviour and conservation, including a laboratory or field-based research project.
• Modules include Conservation in the Anthropocene, Researching Animal Behaviour, Global Change Biology, and Project and Professional Development.

Entry Requirements

• Typical offer: 104-112 UCAS tariff points.
• IELTS score: 6.0 with no component below 5.5, taken within two years of the course start date.
• UK students: A levels - grades BCC or equivalent, to include grade C or above in Biology or Human Biology (with Pass in Practical Assessment).
• International students: Pass the IB Diploma with minimum 26 points overall or 104 UCAS Tariff points from three Higher Level subjects, including HL5 in Biology.

Fees and Funding

Tuition fees for the 2026/27 academic year are still being finalized. Information on 2025/26 standard undergraduate fees for UK/Channel Islands and EU/Non-EU international students is available.

Careers Support and Prospects

• Employed or in further study: 88.7% of UK-domiciled, full-time, first-degree graduates are employed or in further study 15 months after graduation.
• The program is designed to equip students with transferable skills that can be applied to subject-specific careers in biological, pharmaceutical, and agrochemical industries, as well as non-subject-specific career pathways.
• Recent animal behaviour graduates have found employment across a wide range of sectors, including research laboratories, zoos and wildlife parks, environmental consultancies, and nature conservation organizations.

Conclusion

The BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour and Conservation degree at Manchester Metropolitan University offers a comprehensive and engaging program for students interested in understanding animal behaviour and contributing to conservation efforts. With its strong focus on practical skills, real-world applications, and career development, this program is ideal for those seeking a career in biological sciences, conservation, or related fields.