Swansea University

What you'll study

This programme builds core biological and ecological knowledge in the first year and moves towards specialised conservation topics and independent research in later years. You will study population and community ecology, ecosystem function, species interactions and the principles of conservation biology alongside the data analysis and research design skills needed to address real conservation problems.

• Core topics: introductory cell and organismal biology, ecological principles, evolution, statistics for biology and scientific communication.
• Intermediate modules: population and community ecology, animal behaviour, plant ecology, freshwater and marine ecology, conservation theory and protected area management.
• Practical skills: ecological survey techniques, habitat assessment, ecological sampling design, GIS and remote sensing, laboratory methods and data analysis (including use of R or similar statistical tools).
• Advanced and optional modules: conservation genetics, species reintroduction and restoration ecology, climate change impacts on biodiversity, invasive species management, environmental policy and practical land management.
• Independent research project: a substantial, supervised field or laboratory research dissertation in your final year that develops project design, data collection, analysis and reporting skills.
• Fieldwork and applied learning: frequent local field courses take advantage of nearby coastal, estuarine and upland habitats (including the Gower Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty). There are opportunities for residential field trips, laboratory practicals and collaborations with local conservation organisations.
• Optional placement/study year: many students can elect to take an optional placement year in industry, a conservation NGO or a research laboratory to gain practical experience and professional contacts.

Entry requirements

Successful applicants typically have formal qualifications in science or related subjects. Admissions consider a combination of A‑levels, BTEC, Scottish Highers, Irish Leaving Certificate and international equivalents alongside personal statements and references.

• Typical A‑level profile: offers are often within a range that reflects academic preparation in relevant subjects; biology or another science at A‑level is highly advantageous.
• BTEC and other vocational qualifications: accepted where the content is relevant to biological or ecological sciences; exact requirements vary by applicant background.
• GCSEs: employers and some professional progression routes expect competence in mathematics and English; equivalent qualifications are considered.
• Non‑standard applicants: relevant work experience, mature student pathways and access qualifications are welcomed and assessed on an individual basis.

Career prospects

Graduates go into a wide range of roles across the environmental and conservation sector. The degree equips you for technical, advisory and research positions as well as for further study.

• Typical job destinations: ecological consultant, conservation officer, habitat restoration practitioner, wildlife educator, field surveyor, environmental adviser for public bodies or NGOs, marine and freshwater ecologist.
• Skills employers value: field and lab techniques, ecological survey and habitat assessment, GIS and spatial analysis, statistical analysis, report writing and project management.
• Progression to postgraduate study: many students progress to MSc courses in conservation, ecology, environmental management or to research (PhD) positions.
• Professional recognition: the degree provides a strong foundation for membership of professional bodies (for example regional institutes of ecology and environmental management) and for routes to chartered status through workplace experience and further professional development.

Why study at Swansea University

Swansea University combines strong biosciences teaching with ready access to diverse field environments. The university’s coastal location and proximity to the Gower provide extensive opportunities for coastal, marine and terrestrial fieldwork. Teaching is research‑informed and staff work on applied environmental issues including conservation management, marine and freshwater ecology and biodiversity monitoring.

• Facilities and resources: modern laboratory teaching spaces, computer labs with GIS software and support for data analysis and field equipment for ecological surveying.
• Applied experience: emphasis on practical skills, residential field courses and links with local conservation organisations, wildlife trusts and governmental bodies that support placements and project work.
• Research environment: opportunities to work alongside active research groups in ecology, conservation and marine science for project supervision and postgraduate progression.