UWE Bristol - BSc Hons Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Science with Foundation Year

UWE Bristol

BSc Hons Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Science with Foundation Year

Study wildlife from a scientific perspective on this specially-developed degree, created in partnership with Bristol Zoo.

Why study wildlife ecology and conservation?

Conserving biodiversity, and avoiding the mass extinction of species, are huge global challenges.

We need ecologists who can use their skills and scientific knowledge to help tackle these issues, and explore new and novel approaches to conserving wildlife.

By looking at the nature of global biodiversity, and the effects of habitat loss and climate change, you can equip yourself with the knowledge and tools you need to make a difference in this field.

Why UWE Bristol?

BSc(Hons) Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Science explores wildlife conservation issues at local, national and global levels. Created in partnership with Bristol Zoo Gardens, it gives you unique access to the zoo's facilities and expertise.

Mixing theory with practice, you'll delve into the relationship between wildlife and society, and consider the impact of human activities on the living world.

Deepen your knowledge of conservation by carrying out work in natural habitats close to Bristol, including the Severn Estuary, the Cotswolds woodlands and grasslands, the Somerset Levels and Avon Gorge.

Tap into our many links with local conservation organisations, and go on placements, volunteering and where possible, field-based work and residential trips in the UK and overseas.

Choose our sandwich course option to spend your third year on a work placement in this country, Europe or further afield, applying your knowledge to topical conservation issues.

Explore the steps that can be taken to alleviate biodiversity decline, and get the strong foundation you need for a career in conservation.

We are pleased to inform you that Bristol Zoo Gardens plans to expand as they move to their Wild Place in the next few years. This relocation will enable their team to develop future facing wildlife conservation projects and education facilities. This puts UWE Bristol in the unique position of being co-creators of this state-of-the-art facility, providing exciting new opportunities for you as a wildlife conservation student.

Where can it take me?

You'll be well prepared to go into a wide range of jobs. You could work in national and international wildlife conservation, conservation consultancy, media and wildlife film-making, wildlife and enterprise, or wildlife conservation research.

As a science graduate, your skills will be highly valued, and you could go into a range of non-science graduate positions.

Entry Requirements

  • Tariff points: 48
  • GCSE: Grade C/4 or above in English Language or Literature, Mathematics and Double Science, or equivalent. We do not accept Level 2 Key Skills, Functional Skills or Certificate in Adult Literacy and Numeracy as alternatives to GCSEs.
  • English Language Requirement: International and EU applicants are required to have a minimum overall IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with 5.5 in each component 
  • A-level subjects: A minimum of an AS in a Science subject.
  • Relevant subjects: Subjects that meet the Science requirement for this course: Applied Science, Biology, Human Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science/Studies, Geography, Geology, Maths. Use of Maths, Physics, Psychology, Science in the Environment, Statistics.

Career Prospects

By the end of the course, you'll be well set up for working with national and international conservation organisations, or ecological consultants such as Wildlife Trusts, The Woodland Trust and other non-government organisations (NGOs).

Practical experience in plant and animal survey work, competency at mapping (GIS), and knowledge of monitoring protected species such as great crested newts, reptiles, bats, badgers or water voles are especially valuable in finding rewarding jobs.

If you're interested in conservation education, there are opportunities with the Field Studies Council and other educational organisations.

There are also many options for postgraduate study and research degrees.You could specialise in an area such as wildlife film-making, science communication or environmental consultancy.

Course Details

If you study on the four year (sandwich) course, you'll spend a year away from the University on a work or study placement after Year two.

Depending on which you choose, you'll either complete a placement learning or learning and development module

Year 0 Foundation Year

Biology in Practice
Chemistry in Practice
Skills for Science
People and Science.

Year 1

Life on Earth
The Earth
Field Skills (includes residential field trip, where possible)
Wildlife and Society.

Year 2

Environmental and Field Techniques (includes residential trip, where possible)
Conservation in Practice

Optional modules from
Plant Growth and Survival
The Microbial World
Wildlife Ecology.

Placement year

Final Year

Research Project or Dissertation Project
Contemporary Conservation Science.

Optional modules-
Global Forest Systems
Marine Ecosystems
Professional Practice in Applied Sciences
Primate Ecology and Conservation
Remote Sensing and Geographical Information Systems (GIS)
Science Communication
Sustainable Food Production
Tropical Expedition
Wildlife, Crime and Forensics
Wildlife, Film and Media.

*The information’s are correct at the time of publishing, however it may change if university makes any changes after we have published the information. While we try our best to provide correct information, It is advisable to call us or visit university website for up to date information.

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