BSc (Hons) Ecology and Conservation

At Plymouth, learning goes far beyond the classroom. From the very first year, you’ll gain hands-on experience in real-world ecological research and conservation projects, building the practical skills employers and postgraduate programs value. You’ll spend time in well-equipped labs, make use of specialist digital tools, and get out into the field to see conservation in action:

• Field Trips:

  • Year 1: Nine-day trip to southern Spain (Zahara de los Atunes) to study Mediterranean ecosystems and local conservation challenges.

  • Year 2: Ten-day trip to Northwest Costa Rica to explore tropical ecosystems and practice biodiversity conservation firsthand.

  • Local field courses are also available as a no-cost option, ensuring everyone gains valuable fieldwork experience.

• Laboratories & Facilities: Access to modern, well-equipped labs, including interactive microscope labs and specialist research spaces, giving you confidence with current techniques and technology.

• Practical Projects: Hands-on experience designing and carrying out ecological research, from sampling and data collection to analysis and presentation.

• Group Work & Digital Tools: Opportunities to collaborate with peers on projects and use professional software for data analysis and ecological modeling.

Graduates from Plymouth’s Ecology and Conservation degree leave ready to make a real impact in the world of environmental science. With hands-on experience, fieldwork, and research projects under their belt, students are well-prepared for careers that help protect and manage our natural world. Typical roles include Ecologist, Conservation Biologist, Environmental Consultant, and Wildlife Conservation Officer:

• Careers & Employability Support: Plymouth’s dedicated service offers personalized career guidance, CV and interview workshops, and organizes networking events connecting students with potential employers in conservation and environmental sectors.

• Placement Opportunities: The program helps students secure work placements with conservation organizations and research institutes, giving valuable real-world experience.

• Graduate Outcomes: Around 90% of graduates are employed or pursuing further study within 15 months of graduation, many working in meaningful roles that directly support biodiversity and conservation.

• Industry Demand: Employers in government agencies, environmental consultancies, and wildlife charities actively seek graduates from this program.

• Long-term Accreditation & Value: The course aligns with professional standards and is recognized in the environmental science sector, giving graduates a strong platform for future career growth.

Further Academic Progression:

After finishing the degree, students can continue their studies through advanced programs such as:

• MSc Marine Conservation – specializing in the protection of marine ecosystems.

• MRes Applied Marine Science – focusing on research-driven applications in marine science.

• MSc Sustainable Aquaculture and Fisheries – studying sustainable management of aquaculture and fisheries.

These postgraduate pathways allow graduates to deepen their expertise and open doors to leadership roles, research positions, or specialized careers in conservation and environmental management.