Undergraduate course
BSc (Hons)
Ecology and Conservation
Explore biodiversity and habitat restoration through hands-on learning in the UK and abroad. Build expertise in ecology, evolution, genetics, and conservation – preparing you for a career in ecology, conservation or environmental monitoring.
Our typical offer
104 UCAS points
Out in the field
Study in one of the UK’s richest natural environments, exploring diverse ecosystems in Devon and Cornwall – plus options for overseas trips.
Hands-on lab experience
Sharpen your practical skills in LABplus and our advanced microscopy and glasshouse units, guided by expert staff with real-world conservation experience.
Industry-connected learning
Take advantage of strong links with organisations like Paignton Zoo and the Eden Project, plus an optional placement year to boost your career prospects.
About
Hands-on ecology for a changing world
Discover a degree built on adventure, exploration and hands-on learning from day one. With Dartmoor National Park and Plymouth Sound right on our doorstep, you’ll gain fieldwork experience in some of the UK’s most diverse habitats.
From immersive overseas field courses to cutting-edge lab work, you’ll extend your classroom into the real world and gain first-hand experience of a range of ecosystems. Supported by expert staff and strong industry links, you’ll build the skills and confidence for a career in ecology, conservation or environmental science.
This course is for you if...
you want to explore biodiversity through fieldwork in varied natural habitats – from Devon and Cornwall to overseas destinations
you're keen to apply science in the real world, from small-group tutorials to placements with local organisations
you're looking to build practical lab skills using cutting-edge facilities like glasshouses and microscopy units
you’re aiming for a career in ecology, conservation or environmental monitoring, supported by expert staff and hands-on training
Details
Year 1
In your first year, you’ll build a strong foundation in the core areas of ecology and conservation, exploring topics such as biodiversity, natural history, approaches to conservation, taxonomy and biogeography, and learn key scientific skills in data analysis and GIS.
You’ll gain essential practical experience through local field trips and an early field course that introduces you to key ecological skills and survey techniques.
Alongside this, you’ll start developing valuable personal and transferable skills through individual and one‑to‑one meetings with your personal tutor, supporting both your academic progress and your confidence as a developing scientist.
Core modules
BIOL132
Ecology and the Diversity of Life
20 credits
Discover the principles guiding ecological systems and the immense diversity of life on Earth. You’ll investigate ecological patterns, evolutionary relationships and the processes that sustain natural communities. By exploring how biodiversity is studied and protected, you’ll gain a clear understanding of ecology’s central role in conservation and sustainable management.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
CONSCI100
Introduction to Conservation Science
20 credits
Begin your conservation journey with hands-on field experiences that introduce species identification, ecosystem analysis and modern data-collection tools. You’ll develop skills in teamwork, communication and statistical analysis while exploring how conservation science applies to both marine and terrestrial environments.
50% Practicals
50% Tests
CONSCI101
Exploring Nature Conservation
20 credits
Trace the evolution of conservation thinking from early protectionist philosophies to modern approaches that recognise the deep connections between people and nature. Through case studies and critical evaluation, you’ll explore interventions, assess their effectiveness and develop a broad interdisciplinary understanding of current conservation challenges.
50% Coursework
50% Practicals
CONSCI102
Spatial Ecology and GIS
20 credits
Trace the evolution of conservation thinking from early protectionist philosophies to modern approaches that recognise the deep connections between people and nature. Through case studies and critical evaluation, you’ll explore interventions, assess their effectiveness and develop a broad interdisciplinary understanding of current conservation challenges.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
CONSCI103
Natural History and Field Skills
20 credits
Explore local biodiversity through hands-on study of plants, fungi, invertebrates, birds and mammals. You’ll learn essential survey methods, practise species identification and conduct a student-led investigation in local green spaces. This module builds the practical field skills you need to grow confidently as a naturalist and developing conservation scientist.
50% Coursework
50% Tests
BMSBS01
Biological Sciences Student Support Stage 1
Receive regular support from your Personal Tutor and develop skills that support your success beyond academic study. You’ll take part in tutorials, careers sessions and stage meetings, exploring personal development, skill tracking, goal setting and professional planning. This module helps you understand how support, reflection, and structured guidance combine to enhance your progress, wellbeing, and future opportunities.
Optional modules
BIOL138
Spain Field Ecology
20 credits
Experience ecological research first-hand during a residential field course in southern Spain. You’ll develop skills in species identification, sampling design, taxonomy and biodiversity assessment, working directly with real ecological data. By designing and testing hypotheses, you’ll gain the confidence and practical expertise needed for future field-based scientific work.
60% Coursework
40% Tests
BIOL139
UK Field Ecology
20 credits
Take part in an immersive UK based field course that builds your confidence in real ecological research. You’ll learn to identify major organism groups, practise core sampling and survey techniques, and work with biodiversity data collected first-hand. Through guided fieldwork and student-led exploration, you’ll develop ecological and scientific skills grounded in local environments.
60% Coursework
40% Tests
Year 2
In your second year, you’ll deepen your understanding of population and community ecology, population genetics, animal behaviour, and ecosystem monitoring, while sharpening your skills in scientific investigation and analysis. You’ll also begin tailoring your studies towards your interests and career goals by choosing optional modules in areas such as human impacts on the marine environment or plant-environment interactions.
A dedicated field course gives you the chance to apply what you’ve learned in lectures, strengthening your practical expertise and building the transferable skills that conservation biologists rely on in research and industry. Previous overseas field trips have spent 10 days studying the fantastic plant and animal life found in the rainforests of Costa Rica.
Core modules
BIOL204
Principles of Conservation Biology
20 credits
Explore the biological principles essential for effective conservation. You’ll examine population ecology and conservation genetics to understand extinction risk and persistence of species and study their relevance to conservation management. This module strengthens your ability to apply core ecological concepts to real world conservation challenges and prepares you for more advanced conservation study.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
BIOL205
Animal Behaviour
20 credits
Discover why animals behave the way they do by exploring the causes, development, function and evolution of behaviour. You’ll learn scientific methods for studying behaviour and consider how behavioural knowledge supports practical applications, from welfare improvements to conservation. This module equips you with strong analytical and observational skills in behavioural science.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
BIOL214
Ecology
20 credits
Build a strong understanding of ecological principles at the levels of individuals, populations and communities. You’ll explore how ecological processes operate and species interact in both aquatic and terrestrial systems, and examine how scientists search for general theories in ecology. This module provides a solid conceptual framework for advanced ecological analysis and problem-solving.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
BIOL234
Methods in Biology
20 credits
Develop essential laboratory and field skills used across the biological sciences. You’ll learn safe and effective techniques for data collection, experiment design and analysis using tools such as statistical software and bioinformatics. This module builds your competence and confidence in practical biology, preparing you for more advanced research and technical work.
70% Coursework
30% Tests
BIOL236
Tropical Biodiversity Field Course
20 credits
Experience tropical biology first-hand through a residential field course focused on biodiversity, sampling techniques and species identification. You’ll design field studies, collect and analyse data, and practise scientific communication. Immersion in tropical ecosystems deepens your understanding of ecological processes and the complexity of biodiversity in global hotspots.
60% Coursework
40% Tests
BMSBS02
Biological Sciences Student Support Stage 2
Deepen your engagement with coordinated support and skill-tracking during Stage 2. This module helps you to strengthen your personal and professional development, through pastoral support and careers sessions, preparing you for the increased independence and complexity of upper-level study. It ensures continued academic progression and confidence.
Optional modules
BIOL235
Plant Ecophysiology
nvestigate how plants interact with their environments across a range of natural and human-altered habitats. You’ll examine stress responses, adaptation strategies and the traits that allow species to succeed under specific conditions. Through real examples, you’ll develop a clear understanding of how plants cope with environmental pressures and ecological relationships.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
OS205
Managing Human Impacts in the Marine Environment
20 credits
Explore how human activities, from fisheries to energy extraction, affect marine ecosystems. You’ll study pollution, biodiversity loss and management strategies used to mitigate impacts. Through case studies and evaluation of conservation tools, this module builds your ability to assess and manage human pressures on marine environments.
100% Coursework
Optional placement year
Many of our students choose to take an optional placement year between their second and final years, gaining invaluable hands‑on experience in real scientific environments. You can complete either two three‑month placements or one six‑month placement though many of our students choose to stay with their placement provider for the full year. Throughout the process, you’ll be supported by a dedicated Placement Adviser, a member of academic staff who will be your main point of contact with the University.
Our placement providers are incredibly diverse. Previous students have worked everywhere from Wildlife Trusts and rescue centres across the UK to international organisations such as the Madagascar Research and Conservation Institute and the White Shark Projects in South Africa.
Given the wealth of opportunities a placement year provides, and the significant boost it brings to your employability, we strongly encourage all students to seriously consider undertaking one.
Core modules
APIE303
Biology:Placement
Undertake at least 24 weeks of hands?on professional training with an approved host organisation. During your placement, you’ll apply biological knowledge in real work settings, develop technical and transferable skills, and gain insight into how biological science operates across sectors. This experience helps bridge academic learning with future career ambitions.
Final year
In your final year, you’ll shape your degree around the areas of ecology and conservation that excite you most. A wide selection of optional modules allows you to develop advanced skills in behaviour and genomics, and specialise in fields from understanding impacts of global change to behavioural ecology, and marine vertebrate ecology and conservation.
A major component of your final year is your research project. Working under the supervision of an academic specialist, you’ll apply the knowledge, techniques and scientific understanding you’ve developed throughout your degree to an independent piece of research, giving you the chance to explore a topic you’re passionate about and demonstrate your capabilities as a conservation biologist.
Core modules
PROJ302
SoBMS Project
40 credits
Undertake an independent research project from concept to completion. You’ll develop a research question, design and execute your study, analyse results and communicate your findings. This module strengthens your ability to work independently, solve problems and reflect on your academic and professional development.
75% Coursework
25% Practicals
BMSBS04
Biological Sciences Student Support Stage 4
Deepen your engagement with coordinated support and skill-tracking during Stage 2. This module helps you to strengthen your personal and professional development, through pastoral support and careers sessions, preparing you for the increased independence and complexity of upper-level study. It ensures continued academic progression and confidence.
BIOL325
Biodiversity Conservation: Science, Policy and Practice
20 credits
Engage with real conservation case studies from around the world and learn what drives both biodiversity loss and successful restoration. You’ll explore stakeholder interests, ethics, policy influences and community-led approaches to conservation. The module equips you to understand how evidence, policy and on-the-ground action combine to shape modern conservation practice.
100% Coursework
Optional modules
BIOL301
Plant Biotechnology
20 credits
Explore the science behind plant biotechnology and its importance to global food security. You’ll learn how genetic and molecular techniques are used to improve crops, and critically examine the ethical, social and environmental debates surrounding biotechnology. This module develops your understanding of both the science and the broader implications of modern plant innovation.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
BIOL310
Global Change Biology
20 credits
Investigate how climate change is reshaping plant and animal biology and distributions. You’ll explore current predictions for ecological change over the coming century and examine how this knowledge informs conservation action. By connecting climate science with ecological practice, the module prepares you to engage with one of the most urgent challenges facing biodiversity.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
BIOL323
Advanced Behaviour Analysis Techniques
20 credits
Gain hands-on experience collecting and analysing complex behavioural datasets using modern techniques. You will follow a group of animals, quantify individual behaviour and track social interactions, utilising coding to construct a social network. You will also learn to communicate behavioural insights to a variety of audiences, including scientists and the public.
50% Coursework
50% Practicals
BIOL324
Advanced Bioinformatics and Phylogenetics
20 credits
Build expertise in the analytical skills needed to work with large biological datasets. You’ll explore bioinformatics tools, phylogenetic methods, image analysis and genomic approaches and learn to interpret complex biological patterns. This module prepares you to apply cutting-edge data science to answer major questions in ecology, evolution, behaviour and molecular biology.
50% Coursework
50% Practicals
MBIO317
Behavioural Ecology
20 credits
Explore the theories behind key models in behavioural ecology, including optimal foraging, game theory and habitat selection. Using empirical studies, you’ll evaluate how animals make decisions and how behaviour evolves. This module provides a deeper understanding of how behaviour shapes ecological outcomes.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
MBIO339
Ecology and Conservation of Marine Vertebrates
20 credits
Investigate the ecology of large marine vertebrates and the pressures they face from a range of key threats including fisheries bycatch, whaling, and anthropogenic noise. You’ll study methods for surveying and monitoring populations and analyse real case studies that highlight current research. This module equips you to understand and address conservation challenges affecting large marine vertebrates.
60% Coursework
40% Examinations
Enhance your competitiveness in a global jobs market with our Royal Society of Biology accredited degree.
Accreditation provides industry with an assurance of the level of employability skills and subject relevant bioscience skills provided by a programme*
The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.
Experience
Fieldwork opportunities
As a part of our BSc (Hons) Ecology and Conservation course, you will have the opportunity to participate in field trips both locally and abroad.
Joining us in September 2026? The University will now cover the cost of your international travel (flight to and travel within the country) and accommodation for your second-year field trip ensuring you can take part in this valuable learning experience without any financial worries. This trip is an excellent opportunity to apply your knowledge in a real-world setting, create memories with your classmates, and enhance your studies.
La Selva Research Station, Costa Rica
Zahara de los Atunes, Spain
Students hiking through the rainforest in Costa Rica
Seeing it for yourself really makes you understand some of the concepts better, and it also gives some hands-on lab experience working with animals, asking questions and figuring out how to design experiments. These things are particularly applicable to research or lab-based careers, but those kind of problem-solving skills are really important for any kind of career.
Enhance your understanding of animal behaviour with practical, hands-on experience.
Dr Sarah Lane
Lecturer in Behaviour and Evolution
Facilities designed for real-world experience
Access a wide range of specialist facilities and well-equipped laboratories from day one, supporting your learning and research while building confidence with the latest technologies and techniques used in the field.
The Lower Vertebrates and Invertebrates laboratory is home to a variety of species and supports practical classes and research projects.
Plymouth Electron Microscopy Centre (PEMC) provides high-resolution imaging for advanced biological study.
Our 5G interactive microscope laboratory is the the first of its kind in Europe and allows you to capture, annotate and embed images directly into assignments.
LABplus – a resource centre designed to support practical work, offering equipment, sample materials and learning aids to reinforce your lab skills.- Ecoloans library – offering access to equipment such as bat detectors, camera traps, sensors, binoculars, nets, GoPros and field guides.
- Controlled environment chambers – enabling precise experimental work in varying environmental conditions.
Student placement insight
Victoria Coulton used her placement year to make a difference to contrasting conservation projects – working for the Sea Turtle Protection Society of Greece and conducting experiments of flora and fauna in the Oudeberg Nature Reserve in South Africa.
“I would definitely recommend doing the placement year option because you have fifteen months, the support of the University and you can get as much experience in as many different places as you can.”
The Ocean Giants Programme
Preparing the next generation of marine researchers and ocean guardians for the challenges ahead, whilst supporting NGOs working to protect threatened marine megafauna.
The University of Plymouth has joined forces with the Ocean Giants Trust to create a series of exciting new opportunities for its student participants.
Students will be able to complement their studies with work for charities in locations such as Mexico, Mozambique, the Philippines and Tanzania.
Learn from experts
You will learn from expert, accessible and supportive staff who are skilled researchers in their field.
Our staff and postgraduate students are involved in a wide range of relevant research.
We are closely linked with the following research groups:
Dr James Buckley
Lecturer in Ecology
Dr Robert Puschendorf
Associate Professor in Conservation Biology
Dr Mick Hanley
Associate Professor in Plant-Animal Interactions
Life in Plymouth
Plymouth's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!
The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.
Jenna
Current student
Current student
Life in the city
Discover what Plymouth and its unique geographical location have to offer
Explore your accommodation options
Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls
Get involved with one of our many student groups
Our large student population, active Students' Union, and abundance of student-led clubs and societies blend to create a busy and vibrant student scene
Careers
Our students gain the knowledge and skills needed for employment across a wide range of sectors. With a hands-on approach to teaching and learning, the course equips you with topical expertise and practical experience applicable to careers in areas such as environmental law, journalism and media, ecotourism and environmental education.
*Data is from the Graduate Outcomes Surveys from the latest available data covering the three years of 2020-21, 2021-22 and 2022-23. Graduates were surveyed 15 months after graduating. Data displayed is for UK-domiciled, first degree, full-time graduates who are working, studying or looking for work.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Tuition fees for new full-time students starting in
Full-time study
£9,790 per year
£9,790 per year
Module fees for repeated or part-time study
£815 per 10 credits
£815 per 10 credits
Tuition fee price changes
The Government has announced that tuition fees from Academic Year 28/29 onwards will be subject to automatic annual inflationary increases, which we believe will be at a similar rate to the recent annual increases to fees, and may continue to be inflation based. The University may increase annual tuition fees in line with the Student Contract and the maximum tuition fee caps set by the Government from time to time.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies and we advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
More information about
fees and costs of studying .
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year.
Full-time study
£19,200 per year
£19,200 per year
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
fees and costs of studying .
UK Government announcement on tuition fees
The UK Government has announced that a levy on tuition fee income in the region of 6% of an international student’s tuition fees may be introduced. If implemented, the University reserves the right to increase your tuition fees accordingly. The Government has made it clear that it has not officially decided on its stance and it is possible that the eventual levy amount or arrangements may differ from the initial proposal. Therefore, the University reserves the right to adjust tuition fees in accordance with the Government’s final position on this levy.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies. Therefore, please note that the tuition fee shown on this page may change as a result of the introduction of a levy. We advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
Additional costs
This course is delivered by the Faculty of Science and Engineering. Studying a course in this faculty may incur additional costs relating to field-based activities or equipment requirements.
Fund your studies
As an undergraduate at Plymouth, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
Supporting students with the cost of living
The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
Apply
Entry requirements
Our typical offer
104 UCAS points
104 UCAS points
You may be eligible for a contextual offer
GCSE
We would usually expect GCSE English and Mathematics at grade C / 4, or equivalent.
A levels
104 points. To include Biology at grade C and preferably a second relevant subject (Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Geography, Geology, Environmental Science or Environmental Studies, Applied Science, Marine Science, Psychology). General Studies accepted.
BTEC National Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma/RQF National Extended Diploma
DDM in Science. If you hold a BTEC qualification, it is vital that you provide admissions@plymouth.ac.uk with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information, we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.
All Access courses
Science-based diplomas, 33 credits in science-based units at merit including a minimum of 12 credits in biology units and 21 credits in a second science subject.
T level
Merit in Science. Refer to institution.
International Baccalaureate
26 points overall to include Higher Level Biology and a second relevant Science subject. English and Maths can be considered within.
Extended entry requirements
To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.
Please note that we do interview some applicants for this programme, at the Admissions Tutor's discretion.
Ready to apply?
All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
UCAS course code
C184
C184
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
3 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type
Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Other routes into this course
The following courses are available as routes into this programme.
BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences with Foundation Year
Looking for an alternative route into biology degrees? This foundation year, taught by University academics, builds your knowledge, confidence and study skills – preparing you to succeed and progress onto any biology degree.
Entry requirements
We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
Our typical offer
104 UCAS points
104 UCAS points
BSearch entry requirements for your country
5
English language requirements
To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.
Ready to apply?
As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
Need support with your application?
- Personal statement guidance
- student visa support
- travel and arrival information
- and more.
UCAS course code
C184
C184
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
3 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type
Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Other routes to this course
The
University of Plymouth International College (UPIC) offers foundation, first-year and pre-masters programmes that lead to University of Plymouth degrees. Courses are specially designed for EU and international students who are missing the grades for direct entry to the University, and include full duration visa sponsorship. You can start in January, May or September, benefitting from small class sizes, top-quality tuition and 24/7 student support.
Find out more at plymouth.ac.uk/upic or contact our team at info@upic.plymouth.ac.uk
Visit us at an undergraduate on-campus open day
Open days are the best way to get a feel for studying an undergraduate degree at the University of Plymouth.
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The results of the National Student Survey (NSS) and the Graduate Outcomes survey (GO) are made available to prospective students and their advisors through the Discover Uni website.
*This course has been accredited by the Royal Society of Biology following an independent and rigorous assessment. Accredited degree programmes contain a solid academic foundation in biological knowledge and key skills, and prepare graduates to address the needs of employers. The accreditation criteria require evidence that graduates from accredited programmes meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including subject knowledge, technical ability and transferable skills.