Bournemouth University

What you'll study

This honours degree combines core ecological theory with extensive practical skills in wildlife surveying, habitat assessment and conservation planning. The course typically progresses from foundational biological and ecological principles to specialist topics and independent research in the final year.

• Core ecology and biodiversity – population and community ecology, species interactions, ecosystem function and the drivers of biodiversity change.
• Wildlife conservation and management – conservation planning, habitat restoration, protected areas, species recovery and human-wildlife conflict.
• Field survey techniques – practical training in botanical, invertebrate, bird, mammal and herpetofauna survey methods, transects, quadrats and long-term monitoring approaches.
• Habitat and landscape analysis – habitat mapping, management prescriptions, landscape-scale conservation, and principles of ecological networks.
• Applied data analysis and GIS – statistical approaches to ecological data, spatial analysis using GIS and interpreting monitoring datasets for decision-making.
• Research project / dissertation – an independent research project, often based on fieldwork, applied surveys or placement-hosted studies, demonstrating research design, data collection and critical analysis.
• Professional practice and placements – opportunities for work placements, industry-led projects and guided experience in organisations such as wildlife trusts, local conservation agencies and ecological consultancies.

Entry requirements

Entry is competitive and applicants are expected to demonstrate a good grounding in biology or a related science, plus a commitment to outdoor practical work. Typical entry pathways include A-levels, vocational qualifications and relevant access courses.

• Academic qualifications: A-levels or equivalent in biology, environmental science, geography or another science are normally required; vocational qualifications (e.g. BTEC) are considered where appropriate.
• GCSEs: pass grades in English and mathematics are normally expected or equivalent qualifications.
• Experience and motivation: practical experience (volunteering or work) with wildlife organisations, conservation projects or field biology strengthens applications; personal statements should demonstrate commitment to conservation and outdoor fieldwork.
• Alternative entry routes: mature students, applicants with non-traditional qualifications and those seeking a foundation year should contact the admissions team to discuss options and evidence of suitability.

Career prospects

Graduates gain a combination of scientific knowledge and practical skills valued by employers in conservation and environmental sectors. Career paths are varied and often include professional roles on the ground and in advisory or research capacities.

• Ecologist or field surveyor for ecological consultancies and environmental contractors.
• Conservation officer, reserve manager or habitat restoration practitioner with NGOs, trusts and government bodies.
• Wildlife and environmental educator, outreach officer or interpretation officer in zoos, nature reserves and community organisations.
• Research assistant or technician roles in universities, research institutes and long-term monitoring projects.
• Roles in policy, planning and environmental impact assessment where ecological expertise is required.
• Further study: many graduates progress to MSc or PhD programmes in ecology, conservation biology, wildlife management or related fields.

Why study at Bournemouth University

Bournemouth University offers a strongly vocational ecology degree with an emphasis on applied skills and employability. The course benefits from close links with local conservation organisations, ready access to diverse habitats in Dorset and structured support for placements and careers.

• Practical focus: regular fieldwork, laboratory classes and opportunities to gain recognised survey and licence-level skills.
• Local habitats: proximity to coastal, heathland and woodland environments provides varied living laboratories for teaching and research.
• Industry connections: partnerships with wildlife trusts, environmental consultancies and statutory agencies support real-world projects and placement opportunities.
• Facilities and support: modern teaching labs, GIS resources and academic supervision tailored to field-based research projects.
• Employability: an embedded careers and professional development emphasis helps students build portfolios, practical competencies and networks for conservation careers.