Ecology & Conservation BSc
Study of how living organisms interact with each other and their environments - and how we can protect ecosystems for the future.
Is this for you?
This degree could suit you if you:
Enjoy studying ecosystems and nature
Are interested in conservation
Like outdoor work and research
Want to understand environmental change
Care about sustainability
Popular Career Fields
Environmental Conservation
Research & Academia
Government & Public Sector
Charity & NGO Sector
Your Personality Might Be:
Nature enthusiast
Research & Academia
Scientifically rigorous
Conservation-focused
What is it?
What Is an Ecology & Conservation Degree?
Ecology & Conservation focuses on understanding the natural world and how to manage it sustainably. It explores the relationships between species, habitats, and ecosystems, and the science behind protecting biodiversity in the face of human impact.
Why Study Ecology & Conservation?
This degree is perfect if you’re passionate about wildlife, habitats, and sustainability. It combines scientific research, outdoor fieldwork, and environmental problem-solving - preparing you to make a real difference in protecting nature locally and globally.
Course Summary
Study of how living organisms interact with each other and their environments - and how we can protect ecosystems for the future.
What you'll study
Most Ecology & Conservation degrees cover:
Ecology and biodiversity
Conservation biology and habitat management
Animal and plant science
Environmental systems and sustainability
Climate change and ecosystem resilience
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and mapping
Research methods and data analysis
Later in your course, you can usually specialise - for example, in marine ecology, tropical conservation, wildlife management, or environmental policy.
Skills You'll Gain
An Ecology & Conservation degree builds a broad range of scientific and transferable skills, including:
Conservation Strategy Development – designing practical solutions to protect species and ecosystems.
Ecological Data Analysis – interpreting population, biodiversity, and environmental datasets.
Conservation Planning – designing strategies to protect species and restore habitats.
Field & Lab Techniques – using sampling methods, identification skills, and ecological monitoring tools.
Ecosystem Understanding – analysing ecological interactions, biodiversity patterns, and environmental change.
Explore Uni Open Days
Pathways, Placements and Work Experience
CAREERS
Career Pathways
Graduates in Ecology & Conservation can work in:
Wildlife conservation and environmental management
Ecology and habitat restoration
Environmental consultancy and sustainability
Research and education
Policy and community engagement
Work Experiences & Placements
Many universities offer:
Placements or sandwich years with conservation charities, environmental consultancies, or government agencies.
Field courses in the UK or abroad, sometimes in national parks, coastal zones, or tropical regions.
These opportunities help you gain valuable practical experience and build professional connections in the environmental sector.
Salary Profile
Coming soon
Qualifications, Personal Satement, What to do Next?
AM I ELIGIBLE?
Entry Requirements
A-levels or equivalent including Biology and another Science subject (such as Chemistry, Environmental Science, Geography, or Maths).
Personal Statement Tips
Show your enthusiasm for wildlife, ecosystems, and sustainability.
Mention volunteering, field trips, or conservation work you’ve done.
Reflect on how science can protect species and habitats.
Include examples such as biology coursework, research, or environmental projects.
What to do Next
Compare courses to find those focusing more on fieldwork, policy, or global conservation.
Attend open days or virtual sessions to explore labs and field sites.
Volunteer with local wildlife groups or charities.
Follow conservation news to understand current environmental challenges.
Wider Reading
The Diversity of Life by Edward O. Wilson – A classic introduction to biodiversity and its importance.
Wilding by Isabella Tree – The story of a pioneering rewilding project in the UK.
Ecology: From Individuals to Ecosystems by Michael Begon, Colin Townsend, and John Harper – A leading academic text on ecological principles.
Feral by George Monbiot – A thought-provoking look at rewilding and restoring nature.