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Students sitting in a woodland clearing on an ecology field trip

Ecology and Conservation MSci

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Intro

Our Ecology and Conservation MSci explores key areas within ecology, conservation biology, natural resources management and community health.

This integrated degree provides an in-depth study of ecology at masters level, enabling you to develop advanced analytical and research skills, as well as providing the opportunity to focus your studies on current issues in ecology and conservation and further your identification and census skills. 

You will learn from research-active lecturers who are experts in their field, with research strengths in ecology and conservation, zoonotic disease, ecosystems and environmental management. Many apply novel, innovative research techniques in multidisciplinary approaches, from molecular ecology to social sciences, addressing research questions that can inform practical conservation.

Fieldwork opportunities in the UK and abroad further develop the skills and knowledge that are essential for conservationists and ecologists. Current locations for field trips abroad include South Africa and the Mediterranean, where you will study indigenous species and issues around habitat, species management and conservation. Local field trips take full advantage of the diverse landscape of our region. 

Key facts

Location Brighton: Moulsecoomb

UCAS code C180

Full-time 4 years
With placement year 5 years

Join an online event

Apply now with UCAS

Course content

How this course is delivered

Students have a blend of on-campus and digitally enabled remote learning that keeps everyone safe, connected and involved in university life. Lots of opportunities are provided to interact and engage with lecturers and other students. The balance between online and on-campus learning varies by module, and in response to the external environment.

Course structure

Over the course of your degree, you will study core themes in ecology, evolution and diversity, leading to applied elements of ecology such as wildlife conservation and habitat and species techniques. In the final year you will have the opportunity to undertake a research project and develop an area of specialism of your choice.

You will learn through lectures, fieldwork, group work, laboratory classes and independent study. Assessment involves the use of essays, exams, oral presentations and problem-based exercises, which can vary depending on which options you choose.

The course offers a number of field trips to complement your university-based study, including an optional trip to South Africa. Fieldwork is used to contextualise the taught material through real-world activities and provide valuable practical experience.

Our expert staff will support your subject-specific knowledge development and teach you the research, technical, practical and transferable skills that you need to maximise your career prospects. 

Ecology field trip students in a field

Year 1

You will explore the foundations of ecology covering skills for bioscientists, genetics and molecular biology, ecology and conservation, terrestrial ecosystems, and diversity of life. You can also choose from topics such as marine biology, global environmental issues and physical geography.

Modules

Core modules

  • Essential Skills for Bioscientists

    This module introduces the principles of the scientific method and a variety of study and communication skills that you’ll need during your degree. You’ll develop mathematical and statistical skills and apply them in the context of bioscientific data presentation and interpretation.

  • Introduction to Genetics and Molecular Biology

    This module will provide you with a conceptual and procedural understanding of the modern evolutionary synthesis of natural selection, Mendelian inheritance and population genetics culminating in the emergence of modern molecular biology. The recognition of DNA as the archetypical material responsible for information transfer, the discovery of the mechanisms of information flow in biological systems (eg transcription and translation) and the development and application of modern recombinant DNA techniques are also studied.

  • Diversity of Life

    This module will provide an integrated approach to the study of living organisms. Beginning with a study of taxonomic principles, you will explore the cell biology of selected examples of microbes, plants and animals, focusing on cell structure and organisation. Practical and field exercises help bring the subject to life.

  • Introduction to Ecology and Conservation

    This module will introduce you to key concepts and principles in both ecology and conservation science – illustrated with case studies. The links between ecology and conservation and also between theory and applied research are emphasised

  • Terrestrial Ecosystems

    This module will introduce you to major terrestrial natural and semi-natural habitats, covering key ecological and biological processes that structure these systems. You will reflect on the conservation challenges and management strategies used to maintain and restore these habitats. You'll also learn about, and use, field-based techniques during field trips and local site visits.

Options*

  • Introduction to Marine Biology and Ecology

    This module will provide an overview of the major taxa of marine organisms, their diversity, ecology, biology and evolutionary relationship. Origin of life, evolution of marine life, living fossils and specific adaptations to marine habitats will be highlighted. You'll also be introduced to the biogeochemical processes that operate within the marine environment and how they relate to the ecology of oceans.

  • Past Landscapes and People

    This module introduces key concepts surrounding past societies and the way they viewed, interacted with, and changed their environment. You will explore the techniques and theories that archaeologists use to engage with the past, and how the subject of archaeology interacts with physical and human geography. You will explore human impacts on past environments and put how the modern landscape has been created through the human activities into context. 

  • Global Environmental Issues

    This module introduces pressing global environmental issues which you'll explore through natural science and social science case studies. The module focuses on scientific, social, economic and political aspects of current and past environmental issues and examines how some of the issues may be addressed through interdisciplinary management and mitigation.

*Option modules are indicative and may change, depending on timetabling and staff availability.

Student injecting chemical samples in the lab

Year 2 

In your second year you will cover research skills, professional development, physiology of organisms, managing populations in ecology and conservation, marine and freshwater ecosystems and a fieldtrip to Portugal. You can also choose from a range of options including fieldwork in South Africa.

Modules

  • Research Skills and Professional Development
  • Behavioural and Evolutionary Biology
  • Physiology of Organisms
  • Managing Populations in Ecology and Conservation
  • Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems

Options*

  • Biology International Field Course
  • Paleoenvironments
  • Human Origins and Evolution
  • Environmental Pollution
  • Climate Change
  • GIS and Remote Sensing

*Option modules are indicative and may change, depending on timetabling and staff availability.

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Placement year 

A placement year is a great opportunity to gain valuable work experience, explore a potential specialism and develop your skills, enhancing your CV.

Our students have been on placement in organisations including the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew, and the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation.

Ecology students working in the lab

Year 3

You will study species interactions, ecological impact assessment, hot topics in ecology and conservation, and undertake an ecology research project. Option modules enable you to choose the subjects that interest you most, and you may also have the opportunity of fieldwork in Brazil.

Modules

  • Ecology Project
  • Species Interactions
  • Ecological Impact Assessment 
  • Hot Topics in Ecology and Conservation

Options*

  • Current Topics in Marine Biology
  • Rivers, Coasts and Wetlands: Assessment and Management
  • Environmental Impact Assessment
  • Atmospheric Environment
  • Waste Management and the Circular Economy
  • Advanced GIS and Remote Sensing
  • Research Field Skills, Brazil

*Option modules are indicative and may change, depending on timetabling and staff availability.

Ecology students shifting through soil samples

Final year

The focus of your final year is an in-depth research project, working with an academic expert. 

You will further explore the issues of ecology and conservation, advanced taxonomy and survey skills, and choose an option module in an area of interest.

Modules

  • Research Project
  • Issues in Ecology and Conservation
  • Advanced Taxonomy and Survey Skills

Options*

  • Ecology and Conservation in Practice (placement)
  • Microbiology, Ecotoxicology and Environmental Remediation
  • Introduction to Geographical Information Systems
  • Applications in Geographical Information Systems
  • Hydrology and Pollutant Transport
  • Water Quality Analysis
  • Environmental Impact Assessment
  • Case Studies in Environment Assessment and Management

*Option modules are indicative and may change, depending on timetabling and staff availability.

 

 Ecology field trip students taking grass samples

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Careers

Prepare for your career 

Gain insight into professional practice, from projects with our industry partners that tie in teaching, research and field trips with current ecological issues such as rewilding.

Develop transferable skills by working in groups with other students from across our natural sciences courses to solve problems, share knowledge and support each other.

Take real life case studies and create an ecological impact assessment mirroring the role of an ecological consultant.

Our careers module in year two includes visits from guest speakers who share their experience with you.

Ecology students working in the lab

Placement

There are many advantages of spending a placement year working in industry, or research. It can help you to:

  • apply your learning to real-life situations and challenges
  • learn new skills which can help in your career
  • explore specialisms to gain better understanding of what you want to do
  • gain vital work experience and build your network of professional contacts
  • come back for your final year more focused, more organised and more confident.

Our students have been on placement with organisations including the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew, Paignton Zoo, the Sea Life Centre and the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation.

Facilities for learning 

Your lab-based learning is in our specialist laboratories which are purpose-built for the study of ecology, molecular biology, and microbiology.

Facilities include a dedicated microbiology lab, primary cell/tissue and secondary cell culture facility, molecular biology lab with access to RT-PCR equipment, an Image Analysis Suite with electron microscopes, a confocal microscope and atomic force microscopes, and a genomics/proteomics facility for analysis of cell genes and proteins.

Biological sciences laboratory virtual tour

Click to view a virtual tour of some of our biosciences facilities. 

Professional links 

Connect with our professional networks as visiting lecturers with a range of ecological expertise, from bats to ecological policy, share their insight and knowledge with you.

Our links with local and national organisations provide opportunities for placements, volunteering, projects and individual research in current ecological issues.

Graduate destinations 

Our graduates have gone on to careers in conservation organisations, ecological consultancies, local authorities, scientific research, animal care and teaching.

Others choose to continue their studies at postgraduate level.

Further study 

Our Ecology and Conservation MSci opens up a range of further postgraduate study options. We have opportunities in the following fields, all of which can be a springboard to PhD level.

  • Ecology and Conservation MRes
  • Biological Sciences MRes
  • Natural Sciences MRes

Supporting your employability 

Outside of your course, our Careers Service is here to support you as you discover (and re-discover) your strengths and what matters to you. We are here for you throughout your university journey as you work towards a fulfilling and rewarding career.

Connect with our careers team

  • Find part-time work that you can combine with your studies.
  • Find, or be, a mentor or get involved with our peer-to-peer support scheme.
  • Develop your business ideas through our entrepreneurial support network.
  • Get professional advice and support with career planning, CV writing and interview top tips.
  • Meet potential employers at our careers fairs.
  • Find rewarding volunteering opportunities to help you discover more about what makes you tick, and build your CV.

Whatever your career needs, we are here to help. And that's not just while you are a student, our support carries on after you've graduated.

Find out more...

Coloured background with the words Be More, Connected, Skilled, Emlployable

Entry criteria

Entry requirements

A-levels or BTEC
Entry requirements are in the range of A-level ABB–BBC (128–112 UCAS Tariff points) or BTEC Extended Diploma DDM–DMM.

A-levels must include biology at grade B, and a second science such as geography or environmental science. BTEC must be in a science-based subject. 

International Baccalaureate
27 points, with three subjects at Higher level. Higher level subjects to include biology at grade 5. 

Access to HE Diploma
pass with 60 credits overall. Science or similar diploma. At least 45 credits at level 3, with 24 credits at merit or above.

GCSE (minimum grade B or grade 5)
at least three subjects including English language, maths and a science.

Foundation degree
may enable you to start the course in year 2.

Studied before or got relevant experience?
A qualification, HE credits or relevant experience may count towards your course at Brighton, and could mean that you do not have to take some elements of the course or can start in year 2 or 3. 

English language requirements
IELTS 6.0 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each element. Find out more about the other English qualifications that we accept.

International requirements and visas

International requirements by country
Country name
Albania
Algeria
Argentina
Australia
Austria
Bahrain
Bangladesh
Belarus
Belgium
Bermuda
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Botswana
Brazil
Bulgaria
Burma (Myanmar)
Cameroon
Canada
Chile
China
Colombia
Croatia
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Denmark
Ecuador
Egypt
Estonia
Finland
France
Germany
Ghana
Greece
Guyana
Hong Kong
Hungary
Iceland
India
Indonesia
Iran
Iraq
Ireland
Israel
Italy
Jamaica
Japan
Jordan
Kazakhstan
Kenya
Kosovo
Kuwait
Latvia
Lebanon
Liechtenstein
Libya
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Macedonia
Malaysia
Malawi
Malta
Mexico
Moldova
Montenegro
Morocco
Namibia
Nepal
Netherlands
New Zealand
Nigeria
Norway
Oman
Pakistan
Palestinian National Authority
Philippines
Poland
Portugal
Qatar
Romania
Russian Federation
Saudi Arabia
Serbia
Sierra Leone
Singapore
Slovakia
Slovenia
South Africa
South Korea
Spain
Sri Lanka
Syria
Sweden
Switzerland
Taiwan
Tanzania
Thailand
Tunisia
Turkey
Uganda
Ukraine
United Arab Emirates
United States
Uzbekistan
Venezuela
Vietnam
Yemen
Zambia
Zimbabwe

We can help you meet our English language or academic entry requirements.

Visit our language centre

For English language preparation courses.

Visit our International College

For degree preparation courses.

Visas and immigration advice

Applying for a student visa

Check out our step-by-step guidance.

Fees

Course fees

UK (full-time) 9,250 GBP

International (full-time) 14,748 GBP

What's included

You may have to pay additional costs during your studies. The cost of optional activities is not included in your tuition fee and you will need to meet this cost in addition to your fees. A summary of the costs that you may be expected to pay, and what is included in your fees, while studying a course in the School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences are listed here.

  • All students are provided with a laboratory coat, safety glasses and log book.
  • A budget to cover laboratory consumables and equipment for your final year project is included in the fees for all students.
  • Access to key subject journals and subject specific databases is provided, as well as a site licence for industry-standard chemical drawing software.
  • Essential instruction booklets (laboratory handbooks) are provided, as is project poster printing and thesis binding. However, you should budget for books, printing and stationery for personal study.
  • The school provides some financial support for social activities via the student societies and holds a free annual graduation party.
  • Optional placements and day trips may include additional costs but this will vary depending on location of the placement.
  • For our ecology and conservation courses there are compulsory field trips for which you should budget up to £200. There are also optional field trips for which you may choose to budget up to £2,700. You may also need to buy appropriate clothing for outdoor use.
  • DBS checks for MPharm students are included in the fee.
  • Costs for MPharm placement travel is reimbursed up to a specified amount depending on location of placement.

You can chat with our enquiries team through the Stay in touch panel at the end of this page if you require further information. Or check our finance pages for advice about funding and scholarships, as well as more information about fees and advice on international and island fee-paying status.

Info

The fees listed here are for full-time courses beginning in the academic year 2021–22.

Further tuition fees are payable for each subsequent year of study and are subject to an annual increase of no more than 5% or RPI (whichever is the greater). The annual increase for UK students, who are subject to regulated fees, will increase no more than the statutory maximum fee.

You can find out more about our fees in the university's student contract and tuition fee policy (pdf).

The tuition fee you have to pay depends on a number of factors including the kind of course you take, and whether you study full-time or part-time. If you are studying part-time you will normally be charged on a pro rata basis depending on the number of modules you take.

Location

Local area

About Brighton

The city of Brighton & Hove is a forward-thinking place which leads the way in the arts, technology, sustainability and creativity. You'll find living here plays a key role in your learning experience.

Brighton is a leading centre for creative media technology, recently named the startup capital of the UK.

The city is home to a national 5G testbed and over 1,000 tech businesses. The digital sector is worth over £1bn a year to the local economy - as much as tourism.

All of our full-time undergraduate courses involve work-based learning - this could be through placements, live briefs and guest lectures. Many of these opportunities are provided by local businesses and organisations.

It's only 50 minutes by train from Brighton to central London and less than 40 minutes to Eastbourne. There are also daily direct trains to Bristol, Bedford, Cambridge, Gatwick Airport, Portsmouth and Southampton.

Map showing distance to London from Brighton
Brighton Beach sunset

Campus where this course is taught

Moulsecoomb campus

Two miles north of Brighton seafront, Moulsecoomb is our largest campus. Subjects taught here include architecture, business, computing, construction, engineering, geography, product design, law, journalism, media and pharmacy.

On campus you will find professional-standard facilities including a flight simulator, trading room, design and digital media suites and specialist research laboratories, alongside the library, student centre, fitness facilities and Students' Union. There are excellent public transport links.

The Big Build
The Big Build is a major transformation of our Moulsecoomb campus, planned with sustainability, inclusivity and community in mind.

By the start of the autumn term in 2021, we expect our landmark new academic building and over 800 new, affordable, student bedrooms to be ready. The project will also provide new Students' Union and fitness facilities, an accessible, pedestrian, bridge, new green and social spaces, much improved facilities for cyclists and pedestrians and better links to public transport.

Next door to our campus, the new Preston Barracks development will provide a variety of new shops, cafes and workshop space.

The Big Build

Accommodation

Brighton: Moulsecoomb

We guarantee an offer of a place in halls of residence to all eligible students.

Halls of residence
We have halls of residence across Brighton in the city centre, Moulsecoomb, Varley Park and Falmer.

  • You'll be prioritised for accommodation in the halls that are linked to your teaching base, subject to availability.
  • Moulsecoomb campus is linked to Moulsecoomb Place, Mithras halls and Varley Park. All halls are self-catered.
    • Varley Park offers a mix of rooms. It is around two miles from Moulsecoomb campus and four miles from the city centre. Public transport in the city is excellent, and there’s a shuttle bus between our Brighton campuses during term time.
    • Moulsecoomb Place halls are all self-catered and are located right on campus.

Want to live independently? We can help – find out more about private renting.

Modern accommodation at nearby Varley Halls

Modern accommodation at nearby Varley Park

Relaxing in halls near the campus

Relaxing in halls near the campus

Students eating at the Hub

Students eating at the Hub

Maps

Moulsecoomb campus map

Stay in touch

Join an online event

If you have a question about this course, our enquiries team will be happy to help.

01273 644644

Statistics

These charts give an indication of how much time you will spend on different activities at each level of the course, and an indication of the balance of assessment by coursework, and written and practical exams. For courses with option modules, actual proportions will depend on the modules you choose.

Find out more about how the academic year and degree courses are organised, and about learning and assessment activities you might get to grips with at Brighton. More specific information about this course is detailed in the programme specification (linked above). You can find out also about the range of support we offer to help you adjust to university life.

Overall workload

Assessments

Discover Uni

Discover Uni enables you to compare information when choosing a UK university course. All UK universities publish Discover Uni data on their website. Discover Uni will be launching a widget this month that will show top line stats for this course. Once live, the widget will appear below. 

Programme specification

The programme specification is the approved description of each course. They are updated following course changes, and give a detailed breakdown of the content and structure of the course.

Programme specification

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‹ ›

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