BSc (Hons) Ecology and Conservation at University of Brighton

Programme overview

Working in ecology and conservation involves protecting nature to ensure healthy ecosystems, preserve biodiversity and help support a healthier planet for everyone. Our Ecology and Conservation BSc(Hons) degree explores diverse ecosystems of all sizes – from microbes to whole habitats. You’ll explore marine and freshwater environments in each year and build valuable GIS and remote-sensing skills.

Faculty: School of Applied Sciences | Department: Geography, Earth and Environment | Duration: full-time: 3 years; with placement year: 4 years | Study mode: full-time (optional placement year) | Intake: 2027 entry | Location: Brighton, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

You will explore the key principles of ecology and conservation and develop the essential skills that a professional bioscientist needs. This module introduces the principles of marine and freshwater biology by examining the evolution and diversity of aquatic flora and fauna. You will focus on physical and chemical aspects of aquatic ecosystems, their impact on the populations of organisms that live in these ecosystems and how organisms adapt to their environments. Practical sessions will cover methods for collecting, handling and analysing scientific data, as well as developing effective science communication skills. Modules include Fundamentals of Marine and Freshwater Biology, Essential Skills for Bioscientists, Fundamentals in Genetics and Evolution, Introduction to Microorganisms and Plants, Introduction to Ecology and Conservation, Terrestrial Ecosystems, Population Biology for Conservation, GIS and Remote Sensing Principles and Practice, Research Skills and Professional Development, Animal Diversity and Adaptations.

Career pathways

An Ecology and Conservation degree prepares you for careers focused on protecting biodiversity, managing ecosystems and promoting sustainability. Discover career paths linked to this subject, the skills you’ll develop, and examples of graduate destinations on our geography, ecology and environment careers and employability page.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A-levels ABB–BCC. Must include a science at grade C or above. BTEC Extended Diploma DDM–MMM. Must be in a science-based subject. International Baccalaureate 27 points, with three subjects at Higher level. Higher level subjects must include biology at grade 5. UCAS tariff 104–128 points. Access to HE Diploma Pass with 60 credits overall. Science or similar programme. Must include 12 credits in biology. At least 45 credits at level 3, with 18 at merit or above. T-level Merit in the Science; Agriculture, Land Management and Production; or Animal Care and Management T-level. Other T-levels not accepted. Foundation degree/HND May enable you to start the course in year 2. English language requirements. If English is not your first language, IELTS 6.0 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each element.

Domestic applicants: GBP 9,790 a year (2026/27). First-year tuition fee, full-time; fees may rise in later years. Source

International applicants: GBP 18,108 a year (2026/27). First-year tuition fee, full-time; fees may rise in later years. Source

Intake: 2027 entry

Duration: full-time: 3 years; with placement year: 4 years

Apply through the official page: https://www.ucas.com/ucas/undergraduate/register

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