BSc (Hons) in Ecology and Conservation, Lancaster University

Lancaster,

36 Months

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About this course

This three-year BSc Hons Ecology and Conservation degree combines ecological theory with practical experience through lectures, tutorials, field trips, and lab work. Your journey begins with foundational topics such as ecology, evolutionary biology, and conservation, progressing into more specialized modules like organismal biology, remote sensing, and environmental sciences in the second year. The final year emphasizes independent research, where you'll undertake a project supported by expert academics, and engage with advanced modules. The course is designed to give you hands-on fieldwork experience, exploring diverse habitats in locations like Scotland, Kenya, and beyond. You'll develop key skills such as environmental sampling, data analysis, wildlife identification, and communication, all aimed at preparing you for a career in environmental protection and conservation.

Why this course is highly recommended

Lancaster University offers a top-ranked program for Geography and Environmental Sciences, with students benefiting from close proximity to national parks, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and nature reserves, providing direct access to natural environments. The course’s focus on global fieldwork and real-world conservation efforts helps students build confidence and practical skills. Graduates are equipped to work in a variety of sectors impacting the environment, and the course's connection with active researchers and organisations makes it highly relevant and adaptable for future careers in sustainability, ecology, and environmental management.

Specialisation

The course focuses on ecology and conservation of different ecosystems, exploring areas like animal behaviour, evolution, and global change biology. It aims to provide an in-depth understanding of complex interactions between organisms and their environments, with a strong emphasis on practical fieldwork and research.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

31.48L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants need ABB at A level, including two science subjects such as Biology, Chemistry, Computing, Environmental Science, Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Physics or Psychology. Other accepted qualifications include Access to HE Diploma with suitable credits, BTEC Extended Diploma with science, International Baccalaureate (32 points), Scottish Highers/Advanced Highers, and more. The GCSE requirements are Math grade 5/B and English language grade 4/C. Proficiency in English is confirmed via IELTS with at least 6.5 overall and 5.5 in each component.

English language test

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

Career prospects

Graduates can pursue roles such as ecologists, environmental sustainability specialists, reserve managers, and assistant ecologists. Many graduates also continue with further study, such as PhDs. The skills gained—like data analysis, report writing, wildlife surveying, and environmental management—are highly valued across industry, public sector, and research fields. Examples of career destinations include organizations like South West Water, The National Trust, and scientific publishers, with median starting salaries around £24,347.

FAQs

What are the entry requirements for this course?

The typical requirements are ABB at A level, including two science subjects, with additional qualifications accepted such as IB, BTEC, or Scottish Highers. Specific GCSE and English proficiency standards also apply.

What practical experiences will I gain?

You will get field trips to locations like Scotland, Kenya, and other international sites. These experiences include observing wildlife, habitat assessment, and conservation efforts, giving you hands-on experience in diverse ecosystems.