Applied Ecology

Entry requirements

At least a 2.2 honours degree or equivalent.

Mature students with substantial relevant work experience may be considered without a degree qualification.

We particularly welcome applicants with qualifications or experience in areas such as biology, animal biology, ecology, zoology, geography or environmental sciences.

EU and international students need IELTS 6.0 overall (no less than 5.5 in any band) or equivalent.

Months of entry

September

Course content

We are proud to have achieved 100% overall student satisfaction (PTES,2017). Students follow a curriculum with a highly practical emphasis and undertake hands-on exercises in field and laboratory settings. In the field, you will cover identification skills for a wide range of species, as well as industry-standard survey techniques such as phase 1 habitat surveying, habitat condition assessments, national vegetation classification and bird territory mapping. Laboratory sessions will include use of microscopes in taxonomy, and analysis of environmental parameters such as water oxygen levels and soil nutrient status to enable better understanding of species–environment interactions.

There will be opportunities to work on projects with linked organisations, including wildlife trusts, nature reserve managers, charities and public authorities. There is also the option to take a residential field trip; this currently takes place on a wildlife reserve in South Africa. The course is underpinned by the applied research expertise of the teaching team, which includes conservation of species, biotic responses to climate change, bird and mammal biology, insect behaviour and evolution, non-native species introductions, population and community ecology, and environmental biology. An additional theme of citizen science develops awareness of the role of public engagement in surveying and conserving species in the wider environment.

This programme is accredited by the committee of Heads of Environmental Sciences (CHES) and the education committee of the institution of Environmental Sciences (IES). CHES is the collective voice of the environmental sciences academics community and serves to enhance the quality of environmental education worldwide. A programme accredited by CHES is assured to meet high standards, contain a strong component of practical field and theoretical activities and has excellent opportunities for training, work experience and links to the professional environmental sector. Students enrolled on CHES accredited programmes can apply for free student membership of the IES and for a fast track route to membership once they graduate, starting on a route towards becoming a chartered Environmental or Chartered Scientist.

Fees and funding

Learn more at out postgraduate fees, loans and finance page.