STUDY

Undergraduate

BSc (Hons) Wildlife, Ecology and Conservation Science

Close-up of a leaf
Course options: Professional Placement
Institution code: S82
UCAS code: C180
Start date: September 2023
Duration: 3/4 years full-time, part-time available
Location: Ipswich
Typical Offer: Please call our Clearing Hotline on 01473 338352 to discuss your qualifications and suitability for 2023 entry.
Course options: Professional Placement
Institution code: S82
UCAS code: C180
Start date: September 2023
Duration: 3/4 years full-time, part-time available
Location: Ipswich
Typical Offer: Please call our Clearing Hotline on 01473 338352 to discuss your qualifications and suitability for 2023 entry.
Course information table
Institution code: S82
UCAS code: C180
Start date: September 2024
Duration: 3/4 years full-time, part-time available
Location: Ipswich
Typical Offer: 112 UCAS tariff points (or above), BBC (A-Level), DMM (BTEC), Merit (T Level)
Course information table
Institution code: S82
UCAS code: C180
Start date: September 2024
Course information table
Duration: 3/4 years full-time, part-time available
Location: Ipswich
Typical Offer: 112 UCAS tariff points (or above), BBC (A-Level), DMM (BTEC), Merit (T Level)

Overview

The natural world is as fragile as it is fascinating. If you share our passion for understanding and conserving nature and wildlife, this course is ideal for you, and opens the door to many established and emerging careers. 

We draw on a range of related disciplines to bring the subject to life, covering aspects of animal and plant ecology, marine and freshwater biology, wildlife behaviour, and environmental and conservation science. 

A willingness to get your hands dirty is essential. Our students engage in fieldwork at numerous sites of scientific and conservation importance across Suffolk, and have the opportunity to study abroad to experience even more diversity in wildlife and habitats.  

We’ve designed our degree to be more comprehensive than similar programmes elsewhere. In order to equip you with the skills required for careers in emerging new areas, we provide you with a firm foundation in modern biology and laboratory research techniques. 

The degree is run in close association with a wide range of environmental and conservation organisations, including Suffolk Wildlife Trust, Essex Wildlife Trust, Colchester Zoo, Muntons, Eden Rose Coppice Trust, the Environment Agency, Suffolk Biodiversity Information Service, the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (CEFAS), Essex and Suffolk Rivers Trust, the Field Studies Council (FSC), and the world-famous Flatford Mill. 

You can opt to include professional placement year during your course. This will give you the opportunity to gain professional experience and relevant practical skills to enhance your prospects of securing graduate employment. 

 

The University of Suffolk is world-class and committed to our region. We are proudly modern and innovative and we believe in transformative education. We are on the rise with a focus on student satisfaction, graduate prospects, spending on academic services and student facilities.

2nd

in the East of England for graduate prospects

The Complete University Guide 2024

6th

in the UK for spend on academic services

The Complete University Guide 2024

11th

in the UK for social inclusion

The Good University Guide 2023

Course Modules

Our undergraduate programmes are delivered as 'block and blend' — more information can be found on Why Suffolk?  You can also watch our Block and Blend video.   

Professional Placement 

You can opt to include a professional placement year during your course to gain professional experience and relevant practical skills to enhance your prospects of securing graduate employment. This would mean your course length would change from three years full-time to four years full-time.

Downloadable information regarding all University of Suffolk courses, including Key Facts, Course Aims, Course Structure and Assessment, is available in the Definitive Course Record.

Timetable for students commencing Sept 2023
close-up of some plants in beakers

This module will provide students with the core skills required to carry out basic scientific procedures and communicate their research in an appropriate scientific format. The module is based on a series of practical sessions and is designed to develop the skills required for subsequent advanced modules on the course.

To understand the physiology and behaviour of life on earth, it is essential to have an understanding of how living organisms function at the cellular level. We will examine the structure and function of the subcellular components of microbial, plant and animal cells, and explore the genetic principles that are central to our understanding of inheritance, organismal diversity and evolution.

This module is designed to provide an understanding of the environmental challenges facing the world’s ecosystems. The module will examine the human impact on natural habitats, aquatic and terrestrial life and explore how to balance societies needs with the sustainability of the environment.

In this module, we will examine what controls the distribution and abundance of organisms, how energy is transferred through ecosystems and explore how the principles of ecology underpin effective conservation practice. The module will include field trips to a diverse range of habitats and introduce key surveying and ecological assessment skills.

This module follows chronologically the development from biomolecules and the first basic cells through to the more complex organisms such as hominids and modern plants. Students will gain an appreciation of the process of evolution through natural selection which will furnish them with knowledge to underpin much of their further studies.

This predominantly field-based module will introduce some of the common techniques used in wildlife research and provide experience of the skills required to carry out ecological surveys. We will visit a diverse range of local habitats, learn how to track and identify common and protected British wildlife species, and carry out a range of biodiversity and ecology assessments.

This module introduces the concepts of conservation. Students will investigate strategies for managing and conserving wild animals and develop an understanding of the economic, social and political issues that impact on management.

This module introduces students to the principles of scientific research and the planning and design of experiments. Students will learn how to effectively analyse literature and communicate science in a variety of methods. Students will also study the detailed aspects of research design and planning.

The module includes the management of health, nutrition and breeding programmes for exotic zoo species and will encompass other key topics such as welfare, behaviour, training, record keeping, enclosure design, legislation and the global community in a zoo context.

The basis of the module is to understand comparative physiology and morphology and how unique traits allow for adaptation to specific niches. Specific convergent evolutionary examples will identify key physiological and morphological processes using examples across the animal kingdom.

Effective scientists need to understand how experimentation, qualitative and quantitative analysis drives science forward via the process of attempted falsification and how this is quantified and presented. This prepares students for further study and employment by providing an understanding of inferential statistical analysis of scientific data; it prepares them for the Dissertation module.

Freshwater and marine ecosystems cover more than three-quarters of the Earth’s surface, however the world’s aquatic environments are increasingly under threat. In this module we will study the diverse range of life that inhabit aquatic environments and explore the issues involved in the management, conservation and restoration of aquatic resources.

Animal behaviour, whether courtship, reproduction, nurturing of young, migration, feeding behaviour, communication or predator and prey interactions is integral in determine an individual’s chance of survival. An understanding of these behavioural patterns helps in defining conservation goals and strategies, as well as a measure of the welfare of animals in captivity.

Students will learn about the structural, biological and molecular characteristics of major microorganisms, to include bacteria, viruses, fungi and protists. In addition, the significance of microbes for nutrient cycling and health and disease will be investigated.

Plants are increasingly recognised as the key solution to human generated problems in the world. They are the fundamental supplier of virtually all energy for life including humans, and their development and have been identified as critical to feeding and increasing human population. They have recently provided a vast majority of the energy needs to power the industrial revolution with replacements only recently being devised. Over the next generation, the role of plants will move away from powering technology and return to feeding a vast human population.

The dissertation will provide an opportunity for individuals to develop an area of scientific interest arising from either course-based or work-based experience. The focus of the dissertation will be a research-based study, central to which will be some form of hypothesis testing or problem solving.

During this module you will study the molecular, cellular, and physiological effects of common inorganic and organic pollutants and gain experience of a range of laboratory-based toxicity tests.

In this module students will explore the numerous career paths available for life science graduates, will gain experience of graduate recruitment processes, and will critically analyse their own skills and capabilities to develop, reflect and improve their professional career prospects.

Freshwater and marine ecosystems cover more than three-quarters of the Earth’s surface, however the world’s aquatic environments are increasingly under threat. In this module we will study the diverse range of life that inhabit aquatic environments and explore the issues involved in the management, conservation and restoration of aquatic resources.

Course Modules 2024

Our undergraduate programmes are delivered as 'block and blend' — more information can be found on Why Suffolk?  You can also watch our Block and Blend video.   

Professional Placement 

You can opt to include a professional placement year during your course to gain professional experience and relevant practical skills to enhance your prospects of securing graduate employment. This would mean your course length would change from three years full-time to four years full-time.

Downloadable information regarding all University of Suffolk courses, including Key Facts, Course Aims, Course Structure and Assessment, is available in the Definitive Course Record.

Timetable for students commencing Sept 2023
close-up of some plants in beakers

This module follows chronologically the development from biomolecules and the first basic cells through to the more complex organisms such as hominids and modern plants. Students will gain an appreciation of the process of evolution through natural selection which will furnish them with knowledge to underpin much of their further studies.

In this module, we will examine what controls the distribution and abundance of organisms, how energy is transferred through ecosystems and explore how the principles of ecology underpin effective conservation practice. The module will include field trips to a diverse range of habitats and introduce key surveying and ecological assessment skills.

This predominantly field-based module will introduce some of the common techniques used in wildlife research and provide experience of the skills required to carry out ecological surveys. We will visit a diverse range of local habitats, learn how to track and identify common and protected British wildlife species, and carry out a range of biodiversity and ecology assessments.

This module is designed to provide an understanding of the environmental challenges facing the world’s ecosystems. The module will examine the human impact on natural habitats, aquatic and terrestrial life and explore how to balance societies needs with the sustainability of the environment.

This module will provide students with the core skills required to carry out basic scientific procedures and communicate their research in an appropriate scientific format. The module is based on a series of practical sessions and is designed to develop the skills required for subsequent advanced modules on the course.

To understand the physiology and behaviour of life on earth, it is essential to have an understanding of how living organisms function at the cellular level. We will examine the structure and function of the subcellular components of microbial, plant and animal cells, and explore the genetic principles that are central to our understanding of inheritance, organismal diversity and evolution.

This module introduces the concepts of conservation. Students will investigate strategies for managing and conserving wild animals and develop an understanding of the economic, social and political issues that impact on management.

Freshwater and marine ecosystems cover more than three-quarters of the Earth’s surface, however the world’s aquatic environments are increasingly under threat. In this module we will study the diverse range of life that inhabit aquatic environments and explore the issues involved in the management, conservation and restoration of aquatic resources.

The module includes the management of health, nutrition and breeding programmes for exotic zoo species and will encompass other key topics such as welfare, behaviour, training, record keeping, enclosure design, legislation and the global community in a zoo context.

Effective scientists need to understand how experimentation, qualitative and quantitative analysis drives science forward via the process of attempted falsification and how this is quantified and presented. This prepares students for further study and employment by providing an understanding of inferential statistical analysis of scientific data; it prepares them for the Dissertation module.

This module introduces students to the principles of scientific research and the planning and design of experiments. Students will learn how to effectively analyse literature and communicate science in a variety of methods. Students will also study the detailed aspects of research design and planning.

Animal behaviour, whether courtship, reproduction, nurturing of young, migration, feeding behaviour, communication or predator and prey interactions is integral in determine an individual’s chance of survival. An understanding of these behavioural patterns helps in defining conservation goals and strategies, as well as a measure of the welfare of animals in captivity.

Students will learn about the structural, biological and molecular characteristics of major microorganisms, to include bacteria, viruses, fungi and protists. In addition, the significance of microbes for nutrient cycling and health and disease will be investigated.

Plants are increasingly recognised as the key solution to human generated problems in the world. They are the fundamental supplier of virtually all energy for life including humans, and their development and have been identified as critical to feeding and increasing human population. They have recently provided a vast majority of the energy needs to power the industrial revolution with replacements only recently being devised. Over the next generation, the role of plants will move away from powering technology and return to feeding a vast human population.

The dissertation will provide an opportunity for individuals to develop an area of scientific interest arising from either course-based or work-based experience. The focus of the dissertation will be a research-based study, central to which will be some form of hypothesis testing or problem solving.

During this module you will study the molecular, cellular, and physiological effects of common inorganic and organic pollutants and gain experience of a range of laboratory-based toxicity tests.

The basis of the module is to understand comparative physiology and morphology and how unique traits allow for adaptation to specific niches. Specific convergent evolutionary examples will identify key physiological and morphological processes using examples across the animal kingdom.

In this module students will explore the numerous career paths available for life science graduates, will gain experience of graduate recruitment processes, and will critically analyse their own skills and capabilities to develop, reflect and improve their professional career prospects.

This module provides knowledge of the basic biology and ecology of fishes and develops an understanding of the principles underlying the utilisation and management of capture, culture and recreational fisheries.

In this module students will examine how anthropogenic impacts on the natural environment create pressure on community and economic resources and gain the knowledge and skills required to work as a sustainable development practitioner.

Optional module. 

Waterfront Building reflecting in the marina

WHY SUFFOLK

16th place in the Whatuni Student Choice Awards for Best Facilities 2023

WUSCA 2023

5th place in the Whatuni Student Choice Awards for Career Prospects 2023

WUSCA 2023

14th place in the Whatuni Student Choice Awards for Student Support 2023

WUSCA 2023
Students at giraffe enclosure at Colchester Zoo
Colchester zoo
Two students looking at small mammal traps
Wildlife, Ecology and Conservation Science video
A close-up of a hand holding a small rodent
Small rodent
Two students looking through a microscope
Wildlife students

Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements 2024/25

home-masthead-th

Career Opportunities

This degree will give you the opportunity to follow many career paths. From research in universities, research organisations and museums to working for non-governmental organisations such as the National Trust, RSPB or the WWF. Other opportunities include:

  • Planning Consultants
  • Conservationists
  • Science writers
  • Agri-tech
  • Sustainability Management 
  • Opportunities in Wildlife Parks and Zoos 
  • Government Agencies 

Your Course Team

Dr Mark Bowler

Mark is Course Leader in Wildlife, Ecology and Conservation Science. He works on wildlife distributions and the effects of human activity on animal populations.

Dr Andres Arce

Andres is Lecturer in Wildlife, Ecology and Conservation Science, interested in the ecology and evolution of adaptation to harmful or stressful environments.

Dr Christopher Turner

Christopher is Head of Life Science. His research studies animals at all levels, from their molecular and cell biology to their behaviour and ecology.

Cátia Marques

Catia is Course Leader in Biological Sciences and has worked in cell research in several laboratories across Europe.

Catia Marques staff profile photo

Richard Farrar

Richard teaches and leads a number of modules on the School’s undergraduate programmes including BSc Nutrition and Human Health and BSc Bioscience.

Richard Farrar staff profile photo

Fees and Funding

UK Full-time Tuition Fee

£9,250

per year
UK Part-time Tuition Fee

£1,454*

per 20 credit module
International Full-time Tuition Fee

£14,598

per year

*Please contact the Student Centre for further details

The decision to study a degree is an investment into your future, there are various means of support available to you in order to help fund your tuition fees and living costs. You can apply for funding from the Spring before your course starts.

UK Fees and Finance UK Bursaries and Scholarships International Fees and Scholarships

Fees and Funding

UK Full-time Tuition Fee

£9,250

per year
UK Part-time Tuition Fee

£1,454*

per 20 credit module
International Full-time Tuition Fee

£15,210

per year

*Please contact the Student Centre for further details

The decision to study a degree is an investment into your future, there are various means of support available to you in order to help fund your tuition fees and living costs. You can apply for funding from the Spring before your course starts.

UK Fees and Finance UK Bursaries and Scholarships International Fees and Scholarships

Ipswich Award

The University of Suffolk is offering a £1,000 Award for students joining the University of Suffolk’s Ipswich campus. The Award is based on specific eligibility criteria based on your year of entry.

More information
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How to Apply

To study this course on a full-time basis, you can apply through UCAS. As well as providing your academic qualifications, you’ll be able to showcase your skills, qualities and passion for the subject.

Apply Now Further Information on Applying
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"The University of Suffolk empowered me to be better, to aim high and to make positive changes. I found people here that inspired me and supported me through my journey."

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