Conservation Biology BSc
Study of how to protect species, habitats, and ecosystems - combining science, fieldwork, and environmental action.
Is this for you?
This degree could suit you if you:
Care about protecting wildlife and habitats
Are interested in biodiversity
Enjoy fieldwork and research
Want a career in conservation or NGOs
Are passionate about sustainability
Popular Career Fields
Environmental Conservation
Research & Academia
Government & Public Sector
Charity & NGO Sector
Your Personality Might Be:
Environmentally passionate
Research & Academia
Systems thinker
Determined advocate
What is it?
What Is a Conservation Biology Degree?
Conservation Biology focuses on understanding and protecting the natural world. It combines ecology, genetics, geography, and environmental science to study biodiversity and develop solutions for conserving species and ecosystems.
Why Study Conservation Biology?
This degree is ideal if you love wildlife and nature and want to help address global challenges such as habitat loss, pollution, and climate change. You’ll learn both the science behind conservation and the practical skills needed to protect the planet’s biodiversity.
Course Summary
Study of how to protect species, habitats, and ecosystems - combining science, fieldwork, and environmental action.
What you'll study
Most Conservation Biology degrees cover:
Ecology and biodiversity
Animal and plant biology
Genetics and evolution
Environmental systems and climate science
Conservation management and restoration
Data analysis and Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
Field and laboratory research methods
Later in your course, you can usually specialise - for example, in wildlife ecology, tropical biology, marine conservation, or environmental policy.
Skills You'll Gain
A Conservation Biology degree builds both scientific and transferable skills, including:
Field research and data collection
Ecological surveying and monitoring
GIS and data analysis
Problem-solving and critical thinking
Communication and teamwork
Biodiversity Assessment – identifying species and evaluating ecosystem health in field environments.
Population Monitoring – tracking wildlife numbers, dynamics, and conservation status.
Habitat Management – planning and implementing actions to restore or protect habitats.
Ecological Data Analysis – interpreting ecological and environmental datasets for evidence-based decisions.
Conservation Strategy Development – designing practical solutions to protect species and ecosystems.
Explore Uni Open Days
Pathways, Placements and Work Experience
CAREERS
Career Pathways
Conservation Biology graduates are in demand across environmental, academic, and government sectors, including:
Wildlife and habitat conservation
Environmental management and consultancy
Ecological research and monitoring
Sustainability and policy development
Education and outreach
Work Experiences & Placements
Many universities offer:
Placements or sandwich years with conservation organisations, environmental consultancies, or government agencies.
Field courses in the UK or abroad, sometimes in tropical or coastal regions.
These experiences provide valuable hands-on training and networking opportunities in conservation careers.
Salary Profile
Coming soon
Qualifications, Personal Satement, What to do Next?
AM I ELIGIBLE?
Entry Requirements
A-levels or equivalent including two Science subjects (typically including Geology, Physics, Chemistry, Maths, or Geography)
Personal Statement Tips
Show your passion for wildlife, nature, and sustainability.
Mention volunteering, field trips, or conservation projects you’ve been involved in.
Reflect on how science can protect ecosystems and species.
Include examples such as biology coursework, outdoor experience, or environmental campaigns.
What to do Next
Compare courses to find those focusing more on ecology, genetics, or environmental management.
Attend open days or virtual sessions to explore field facilities and laboratories.
Volunteer with conservation charities or local wildlife groups.
Read about global environmental challenges and conservation successes.
Wider Reading
Silent Spring by Rachel Carson – The book that helped launch modern environmental awareness.
A Life on Our Planet by David Attenborough – Reflections on biodiversity and sustainability.
Conservation Biology for All by Navjot Sodhi and Paul Ehrlich – A practical and global introduction to conservation science.
Wilding by Isabella Tree – A real-world story of rewilding and ecosystem restoration in the UK.