University of Exeter United Kingdom

BSc Conservation Biology and Ecology

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The BSc Conservation Biology and Ecology at the University of Exeter is designed for students passionate about understanding and protecting the natural world. You will explore the complex interactions between organisms and their environments, learning core biological and ecological principles essential for tackling biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation. This undergraduate degree is ideal for those seeking a scientific foundation to address critical environmental challenges, offering a deep dive into subjects like evolution, genetics, and the diversity of life.

You will study this programme full-time on campus over three years, engaging in a blend of lectures, laboratory work, and extensive practical fieldwork. Your learning experience will include local field trips in Year 1, a residential field course in Year 2 focusing on habitat and biodiversity survey techniques, and an independent research project in your final year. You will graduate with a strong understanding of conservation science and practical field ecology, prepared for careers in wildlife management, environmental consultancy, and conservation organisations worldwide.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program provides a comprehensive study of conservation biology and ecology, beginning with foundational principles of ecology, animal diversity, and evolution. Students will engage in extensive fieldwork, analyzing biological data and exploring conservation science through practical applications. The curriculum culminates in a research project and advanced modules covering diverse ecological systems and conservation challenges globally.

1 Year 1

Ecology and Conservation Compulsory
Animal Diversity Compulsory
Evolution and Genetics Compulsory
Life Processes Optional

2 Year 2

Analysis of Biological Data Compulsory
Scotland Field Course [See note a above] Compulsory
Biosciences Penryn Virtual Field Course [See note a above] Compulsory
Scillies St Agnes Field Course [See note a above] Compulsory
Scillies St Mary's Field Course [See note a above] Compulsory
Conservation Science Compulsory
Population and Community Ecology Compulsory
Evolutionary Ecology Optional
Wildlife Disease Optional
Introduction to Ecological Consultancy Optional
Biology and Ecology of Marine Vertebrates Optional
Behavioural Ecology Optional
Wildlife Exploitation Optional
GIS for Wildlife Mapping Optional
Adaptations to Life on Earth Optional

3 Final year

Research Project Compulsory
Preparing to Graduate Compulsory
Ecology, Behaviour, and Conservation in Wild Places: The forests and oceans of Yukon and Alaska Compulsory
Azores Field Course Compulsory
Northern Spain Field Course Compulsory
Tropical Biodiversity and Conservation: Costa Rica Field Course Compulsory
Alpine Ecology Field Course Compulsory
Pyrenees Field Trip Compulsory
Global Research Skills Virtual Field Course [See note b above] Compulsory
Literature Review in Evolution and Ecology [See note b above] Compulsory
Marine Vertebrate Conservation Optional
Human Behavioural Ecology Optional
Living in Groups Optional
Literature Review in Evolution and Ecology Optional
Symbiosis in Marine Systems Optional
Sensory Ecology Optional
Science in Society Optional
Animal Life Histories Optional
Ecological Responses to Climate Change Optional
Evolutionary Biology of Health and Disease Optional
Animal Migration Optional
Animal Cognition Optional
Primate Biology and Conservation Optional
The Complexity of Human Societies Optional
Ocean Management and Conservation Optional
Major Transitions in Evolutionary History Optional
Global Research Skills Virtual Field Course Optional
The Genome: Applications, Evolution and Ecology Optional

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 42,173.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 42,173.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 42,173.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 126,519.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,833.00
Transport USD 806.00 - USD 1,611.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 2,095.00
Estimated Total USD 4,351.00 - USD 8,539.00

Living cost estimates are based on Penryn Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

92%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Aviation & Air TransportBanking & Financial ServicesBrokerage & Trading & SecuritiesClinical & Medical ServicesCurriculum & Instructional DesignDefense & Military SecurityEdTech & E-LearningEnergy Engineering & InfrastructureHydropower & Alternative RenewablesRefining & Petrochemicals

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Amazon

Amgen

AstraZeneca

Deloitte

Environment Agency

GSK

Thermo Fisher Scientific

University of Exeter

Why Study BSc Conservation Biology and Ecology at University of Exeter

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Exeter in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BSc Conservation Biology and Ecology at University of Exeter

Can I work while studying?

International students in degree courses can work up to 20 hours per week during term time. Full-time work is allowed during breaks.

What English language score do I need for this course?

International students must meet specific English language requirements, such as a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 overall. Alternatives include a TOEFL score of 90 or a Duolingo score of 120.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as wildlife managers, environmental consultants, conservation scientists, field ecologists, or researchers.

What will I actually study in this course?

The BSc Conservation Biology and Ecology at the University of Exeter is designed for students passionate about understanding and protecting the natural world. You will explore the complex interactions between organisms and their environments, learning core biological and ecological principles essential for tackling biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation. This undergraduate degree is ideal for those seeking a scientific foundation to address critical environmental challenges, offering a

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BSc Conservation Biology and Ecology accepts students in September each year. Ensure your application is submitted by the deadline to secure your place.
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