BSc (Hons) Ecology and Conservation with a Year Abroad
Course options
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Science
- UCAS Course Code
- C18A
- Typical Offer
- AAB (specific subjects required)
- Contextual Offer
- BBB (specific subjects required)
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2025
Why you should choose us
Course Overview
Get ready to dive deep into key concepts of ecology and discover how organisms behave, evolve and interact with their physical and biological environments.
This ecology and conservation degree is for you if you have a scientist’s mind combined with a love of the natural world, animals, plants and ecosystems. You'll be fascinated by life science and how it underpins our understanding of the natural world and conservation.
At UEA, you’ll benefit from instruction by world-leading experts from our schools of biological and environmental sciences. Our unique approach to ecology and conservation will see you learning in the classroom, in the lab, and in the field from your first year through to your capstone research project.
You’ll explore topics ranging from the molecular genetics of populations, plant science and animal behaviour, to environmental management, biodiversity and conservation – and explore some of these within a socio-economic and political context.
Your third year will see you travel to Australasia, North America or Europe, where you’ll live and study, immersed in a new culture with its intriguing ecological differences. This is an incredible opportunity to expand your thinking, make valuable connections with partner universities and see the world. You'll then return to UEA to complete the final year of your degree.
At UEA, you’ll benefit from our strong academic expertise in Ecology and Conservation, based around UEA’s Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Conservation (CEEC) – one of the largest groups of its kind in Europe with strong links to major conservation organisations and institutions such as the RSPB, CEFAS and the Cambridge Conservation Initiative (CCI).
At the end of this course, you’ll have the knowledge and research skills needed to prepare you for a career in industry, research or academia. Your wealth of experience in laboratory and fieldwork will make you stand out to potential future employers, as will the connections you make during your time at UEA.
Placement Year and Study Abroad
On this course, you’ll enhance your studies by spending your third year studying at a university in Australasia, North America or Europe. You’ll then return to UEA to complete the final year of your degree. This is a fantastic opportunity to experience a new culture, see new ecological problems and solutions first-hand and make connections with partner universities across the world.
For further details, visit the Study Abroad section of our website.
Study and Modules
Structure
The first year of your Ecology and Conservation degree is all about developing your field skills and theoretical knowledge to give you a solid grounding in the fundamentals of ecology. You’ll undertake a range of modules in which you’ll explore biodiversity, taxonomy and evolution, enabling you to explore the processes that have driven the diversity of life on Earth.
Alongside this, you’ll consider the challenges facing ecologists today, devising solutions to some of these problems from an interdisciplinary perspective by studying alongside students from the School of Environmental Sciences. Finally, you’ll go on a number of field trips exploring some of the wonderful habitats and landscapes found across East Anglia.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
All our teaching in the School of Biological Sciences is research led. This means that you benefit from the teaching expertise of experienced, enthusiastic academic staff, who ensure that the most recent scientific advances and ideas are incorporated into all our courses.
You’ll learn through lectures, seminars and workshops geared towards helping you understand the theory and concepts behind evolution, behaviour, ecological services, processes and conservation. You’ll spend time in the laboratory developing techniques to explore ecology, from microbes and parasites to model organisms. You'll also learn through fieldwork where you’ll perfect practical field skills and survey techniques. You'll meet and learn from working ecologists from key partner organisations to develop practical conservation skills to complement your academic studies.
Assessment
During this course, you’ll develop your skills and knowledge through a range of activities, from field-based surveys through lab practicals to lectures. You’ll be assessed on your learning and progress on this course through a range of methods which may include the presentation of your own taxonomy collection, creating social media articles, group presentations, or writing executive reports for clients, as well as the more formal course tests, exams and assessed practical work. Ecology with Conservation has a strong emphasis on coursework and practical reporting, preparing you for the workplace after you graduate.
Structure
In the second year of your degree, you’ll further develop your theoretical knowledge with modules that explore population and community ecology, and the management of populations including the role of citizen science and Big Data. You'll also go on a two-week field course, exploring a range of habitats and refining your survey skills and analytical techniques.
You’ll choose three modules to complement all of these and might find yourself exploring the parasite and pathogen ecology, undertaking a further field course in the tropics, or exploring environmental policy and macroecology.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 40)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 40)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
You’ll continue learning through a combination of classroom, laboratory and field research, with a greater focus on independent and student-led research. You’ll have the opportunity to learn from leading ecologists from both within UEA and our partner organisations.
Assessment
You’ll continue to be assessed using a variety of methods, from more traditional exams and coursework to projects which more closely mirror a workplace environment. Assessment methods will continue to be split between lecture, laboratory, and field-based work.
Structure
If you complete years one and two successfully, you’ll spend your third year studying overseas at one of our partner universities in Australasia, North America or Europe. All universities have their own area of research focus, which is reflected in their teachings, so your year abroad is a fantastic chance to cover aspects of ecology that aren’t our main focus at UEA. This means you’ll not only get to experience another country and culture, you’ll broaden your academic horizons, too.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
During your third year, you’ll be taught at whichever partner university you join for your year abroad. This will give you the opportunity both to learn from different experts and to learn about a different culture and how they practice ecology and conservation.
Assessment
During this year, you’ll be assessed by the partner university at which you spend your year abroad.
Structure
In the final year of your studies, you’ll undertake an independent ecological research project. Working with one of the researchers from within the School or from one of our affiliated research institutions, this project is your opportunity to explore your own areas of interest and answer a research question that you may have developed during your studies. Your project can be field- or lab-based and take place in the UK or overseas.
In addition to the research project, you’ll choose to study a range of modules that help you to specialise in the areas of ecology that suit your own interests, be they the evolution of social behaviour, the role of parasites in driving host evolution, or biodiversity conservation and human society.
By the time you finish this final year of your studies, you’ll have had hands-on opportunities to explore a range of temperate and tropical habitats. You’ll have spent time exploring organisms and their anatomy, considered the role of evolution in driving the diversity of life, and developed many transferable skills, from report-writing to science communication. You’ll graduate with an excellent grounding in Ecology and Conservation, ready to apply your skills to this increasingly important field of science.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 60, Max Credits: 80)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 60)Optional C Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
While you continue your classroom, laboratory, and field-based modules, you’ll conduct your own unique research projects in your fourth year. You’ll also have the chance to attend regular seminars and workshops exploring the latest research in ecology. These are often conducted by world-leading scientists and are organised by the Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Conservation (CEEC) – one of the largest groups of ecologists and evolutionary biologists in Europe. They regularly feature scientists from UEA, as well as our affiliated partners like the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) and the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (CEFAS). You can work with the broader CEEC community in developing your fourth-year research project.
You’ll learn through lectures, seminars and workshops geared towards helping you understand the theory and concepts behind evolution, behaviour, ecological services, processes and conservation. You'll spend time in the laboratory developing techniques to explore ecology, from microbes and parasites to model organisms. You'll also learn through fieldwork where you’ll perfect practical field skills and survey techniques.
Independent study
You’ll conduct your own unique research projects in your fourth year. You’ll also have the chance to attend regular seminars and workshops exploring the latest research in ecology. These are often conducted by world-leading scientists and are organised by the Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Conservation (CEEC) – one of the largest groups of ecologists and evolutionary biologists in Europe. They regularly feature scientists from UEA, as well as our affiliated partners like the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) and the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (CEFAS). You can work with the broader CEEC community in developing your fourth-year research project.
Assessment
You'll undergo assessment through diverse methods, ranging from conventional exams and coursework to projects designed to simulate real-world workplace scenarios. Assessment strategies will remain diversified across lecture, laboratory, and field-based activities. In addition, you’ll be assessed on your completion of a more substantive independent research project.
Entry Requirements
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade C or grade 4.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Contextual Offers
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
- Typical UK Entry Requirements
A levels
AAB including Biology or Human Biology, Geography or Environmental Science
Contextual offer: BBB including Biology or Human Biology, Geography or Environmental Science
Where applicable Science A levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Not accepted: Critical Thinking and General Studies.
BTEC
Level 3 Extended Diploma: DDD in Applied Science or Applied Science (Medical Science) or Forensic and Criminal Investigation or Countryside Management OR DDD plus B at A-Level Biology or Human Biology, Geography or Environmental Science.
Contextual offer: DDM in Applied Science, or Applied Science (Medical Science) or Forensic and Criminal Investigation or Countryside Management OR DDM plus B at A-Level Biology or Human Biology, Geography or Environmental Science.
For Forensic and Criminal Investigation applicants MUST be studying ONE of the following modules: Physiology and Human Body SystemsEnvironmental Forensics, Forensic Genetics, Microbiology and Microbiological Techniques.Excludes BTEC Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration.Where applicable Science A levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Not accepted: Critical Thinking and General Studies.Combinations of BTEC and A levels
Diploma: DD in Applied Science or Applied Science (Medical Science) or Forensic and Criminal Investigation or Countryside Management plus B at A-Level in one other subject OR DD plus B at A-Level Biology, Human Biology, Geography or Environmental Science.
Contextual offer: DD in Applied Science or Applied Science (Medical Science) or Forensic and Criminal Investigation or Countryside Management plus C at A-Level in one other subject OR DD plus C at A-Level Biology, Human Biology, Geography or Environmental Science.
Extended Certificate: D in Applied Science or Applied Science (Medical Science) or Forensic and Criminal Investigation or Countryside Management plus AB at A-Level including Biology or Human Biology, Geography or Environmental Science OR D plus AB at A-level in Biology/Human Biology and one other subject.
Contextual offer: D in Applied Science or Applied Science (Medical Science) or Forensic and Criminal Investigation or Countryside Management plus BB at A-Level including Biology or Human Biology, Geography or Environmental Science OR D plus BB at A-level in Biology/Human Biology and one other subject.
For Forensic and Criminal Investigation applicants MUST be studying ONE of the following modules: Physiology and Human Body SystemsEnvironmental Forensics, Forensic Genetics, Microbiology and Microbiological Techniques.
Excludes BTEC Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration.
Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration not accepted.
Access to HE Diploma
Access to Science pathway. Pass Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 36 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 9 credits at Level 3 including 12 credits in Biology
T levels
Obtain an overall Pass including a A in the core of the T Level and a Distinction in the Occupational Specialism. We accept: Science pathway.
Foundation Year options:
If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes such as - BSc Biological Sciences with a Foundation Year
- Further Examples of Typical Entry Requirements
International Baccalaureate
33 points overall with HL5 in Biology, Geography or Environmental Science
Irish Leaving Certificate
4 subjects at H2, 2 subjects at H3 including Biology, Geography or Environmental Science
Scottish Highers
AAAAA including Biology, Geography or Environmental Science
Scottish Advanced Highers
BBC including Biology, Geography or Environmental Science. A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Recent Study
We would prefer you to be able to demonstrate evidence of recent academic study within 5 years of the start of the course. If your last qualification will have been completed more than 5 years ago by the time the course starts, please contact Admissions.
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade C or grade 4.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Typical International Entry Requirements
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. For specific details about your country, view our information for International Students.
A levels
AAB including Biology or Human Biology, Biology or Human Biology, Geography or Environmental Science
Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Not accepted: Critical Thinking and General Studies.
International Baccalaureate
33 points overall with HL 5 in Biology, Biology or Human Biology, Geography or Environmental Science
- Further Examples of Typical Entry Requirements
International Baccalaureate
33 points overall with HL5 in Biology, Geography or Environmental Science
Irish Leaving Certificate
4 subjects at H2, 2 subjects at H3 including Biology, Geography or Environmental Science
Scottish Highers
AAAAA including Biology, Geography or Environmental Science
Scottish Advanced Highers
BBC including Biology, Geography or Environmental Science. A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable
- INTO UEA
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO UEA offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree.
- English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
-
IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components)
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study.
-
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Recent Study
We would prefer you to be able to demonstrate evidence of recent academic study within 5 years of the start of the course. If your last qualification will have been completed more than 5 years ago by the time the course starts, please contact Admissions.
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
View our information for Tuition Fees.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
You’ll normally be expected pay 50% towards the cost of any optional field trips selected from the range of residential field courses within the Schools of Biological Science or Environmental Sciences. All ecology students are expected to have suitable field clothes including walking boots and waterproofs.
You are eligible for reduced fees during the year abroad. Further details are available on our Tuition Fee website.
There will be extra costs related to items such as travel and accommodation during your year abroad, which will vary depending on location.
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of other course-related costs.
How to Apply
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information:
Employability
After the Course
You’ll graduate as a skilled ecologist ready to take advantage of East Anglia’s wealth of varied habitats, or range further afield. Either way, you’ll be able to use what you have learned at UEA to make a real difference.
You could go on to a career in many different areas – from ecological research, agriculture and horticulture to environmental management, consultancy and conservation. You might also consider education or science communication and engagement. Many of our students progress to postgraduate study.
Careers
Examples of careers that you could enter include:
- Ecological research
- Agriculture and horticulture
- Environmental management and conservation
- Science communication and engagement
- Education
Discover more on our Careers webpages.