(Full time) 2022 start
Ecology and Conservation Biology MBiol, BSc
Overview
Ecology and conservation biology is of fundamental importance for our wellbeing and prosperity, as they affect the way we produce food, maintain our air and waters and also how we sustain biodiversity amid climate change.
As we see populations continue to grow, human activities are transforming the planet, threatening biodiversity. It has never been more important to understand the ecological processes underpinning these challenges and how we can use this knowledge to manage and conserve biodiversity in a rapidly changing world.
You'll be provided with cutting-edge knowledge and experience of the processes that determine the distribution and abundance of different species, and how species interact with each other and their environment. You will develop your research skills, not only in the lab but also in the field. There’s also an opportunity to broaden your perspective and tailor your degree in a multidisciplinary way, by studying relevant optional modules, such as creating sustainable futures or environmental law in other university departments.
Our optional integrated Masters (MBiol) offers you an additional year of specialist training, to study advanced research topics and undertake an extended project. You’ll also be able to study advanced Masters-level topics, with the option to study savannah ecology and conservation in Kenya.
Course highlights
The ecology and conservation programme gives you the opportunity to choose from a wide range of modules, meaning you can study topics that you are passionate about.
With optional modules in Faculties across the University, such as the School of Earth and Environment and the School of Law, this is one of the broadest degree programmes in this topic.
Gain experience in a wide range of ecological and conservation contexts through specialised modules and research projects.
Confront different ecological and conservation issues and develop practical field-based skills during your residential field courses in Spain and on the coast of Scotland.
Flexible degrees:
Ecology and conservation biology is a specialist degree within the School of Biology which offers you flexibility throughout your time studying at Leeds.
Many of our School of Biology degree courses share the same set of compulsory modules in the first year. A key benefit of having a common first year is that at the end of year 1, there are opportunities to transfer onto degree courses in biology, zoology and genetics. Additional degree courses may be available depending on your academic background.
Accreditation
This programme has been accredited by the Royal Society of Biology. Advanced Degree Accreditation by the Society recognises academic excellence in the biosciences, and highlights degrees that educate the research and development leaders and innovators of the future. The Advanced Accreditation criteria require evidence that graduates from the programme meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including gaining a substantial period of research experience.
This accreditation is applicable to the following course variants: BSc Ecology and Conservation Biology (Industrial); MBiol Ecology and Conservation Biology; MBiol Ecology and Conservation Biology (Industrial); MBiol Ecology and Conservation Biology (International).
Course content
Year 1
You will study a wide range of topics, including ecology, biodiversity, evolution and genetics, further broadening your perspective by choosing modules in the School of Earth and Environment, such as creating sustainable futures.
Ecology is best understood through observation and practical experience, so in year 1 you will explore whole organism biology in the lab and field and you will go to the coast of Scotland to undertake the first of the residential field courses that we offer. You’ll be introduced to the exciting world of ecology and conservation research right from the start.
Year 1 compulsory field course: coastal and uplands habitats in Millport, Scotland.
At the end of year 1, our flexible degree structure offers you the opportunity to transfer onto other suitable degree courses.
Year 2
You will specialise in the key issues in ecology and conservation biology, through core modules such as population and community ecology. You’ll hone your fieldwork skills during the residential field course on Mediterranean ecology in southern Spain, and the newly developed urban biodiversity and conservation field course, qwhich is especially desined because of its low carbon footprint..
Other optional modules include animal behaviour and sustainable food production, while options from other faculties include climate change and managing biodiversity, which will broaden your horizons in this area.
Year 2 compulsory field courses: Mediterranean ecology in Spain and urban biodiversity and conservation
At the end of year 2, you will have the opportunity to complete an work placement, study abroad, or combined study and work abroad. This will add an additional year of study to your degree.
Year 3
You will carry out your own independent research project. Projects can be field, lab, literature or computer-based which you’ll carry out under the guidance of a leading academic.
You will also work with leading experts on advanced topic modules in ecology and conservation science, developing your research techniques, knowledge and transferable skills.
You’ll also have the chance to attend the optional South Africa field trip and to study from a wide range of optional modules, such as advanced topics in behaviour and law and the environment in the School of Law.
Year 3 optional field courses: South Africa field course
Integrated Masters (MBiol)
Our integrated Masters MBiol programme shares the same year 1 and 2 studying with our BSc programme, providing a foundation knowledge and skills.
Year 4 (MBiol)
You will produce an extended research project focusing on an original, cutting-edge topic specific to ecology and conservation that will equip you with the skills necessary for a career in research, as well as setting you apart in the graduate job market. You will also be able to choose from a wide range of Masters-level modules, such as conservation genetics and Introduction to geographic information system (GIS).
You will have the option to study savannah ecology and conservation on the African field course, which is based at Mpala Research Centre, Kenya. This field course provides a first-hand experience of the ecology and conservation concerns of an African savannah community, both for the wildlife and the people who live in the area.
Year 4 optional field courses: African field course is based at Mpala Research Centre, Laikipia, Kenya.
Part-time study
These courses are also available to study part-time over 6 years. If you choose this option you'll study alongside our full-time students and the course content will be the same, only delivered at 50% of the intensity. As these courses are delivered primarily for full-time students you may need to attend the University on several occasions each week. Times are likely to vary with each new semester and will depend on the scheduling of compulsory modules and your choice of optional and elective modules.
Course structure
The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our terms and conditions.
Discovery modules
Throughout your degree you will benefit from a range of opportunities to expand your intellectual horizons outside or within your subject area.
This course gives you the opportunity to choose from a range of discovery modules. They’re a great way to tailor your study around your interests or career aspirations and help you stand out from the crowd when you graduate. Find out more about discovery modules on our Broadening webpages.
Learning and teaching
You’ll experience a wide range of teaching methods including lectures, tutorials and practicals. Your first and second years will focus on these three teaching methods, building your skills, understanding and knowledge in preparation for your final year research project, which will see you take on independent research and learning with the guidance of leading experts.
Across all years, additional workshop and seminar sessions will complement your lectures and lab practicals, and you will also undertake private study.
As a guide, a typical week in your first year will include nine to twelve hours of lectures, three to six hours of practical sessions in the laboratory, tutorials, workshop and seminar sessions, plus private study.
Independent study and research are crucial to every year of the course. We have excellent library and computing facilities to support your learning, and the University Library offers training to help you make the most of them.
On this course you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.
Assessment
We use a variety of assessment methods to help you develop a broad range of skills. These include practical work, data handling and problem-solving exercises, multiple-choice tests, group work, online and face-to-face discussion groups, computer-based simulations, essays, posters and oral presentations.
Entry requirements, fees and applying
Entry requirements
A-level: AAB
BSc: AAB
MBiol: AAA
Including biology and preferably another science or science-related subject. If biology is the only science subject then an A grade is required. Critical thinking and general studies excluded.
We accept the following:
Science: biology, human biology, chemistry, mathematics, physics.
Science-related: computing, environmental science, food science, geography, geology, PE, psychology, statistics.
Applicants taking a Science A-level (in England) will be required to achieve a pass in the practical element in addition to the standard A-level grade requirement.
When an applicant is taking the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) or the Cambridge International Project Qualification (Cambridge IPQ) this can be considered alongside A-levels and may attract an alternative offer in addition to the standard offer. If you are taking A-levels, this would be ABB at A-level and grade A in the EPQ (BSc applicants) or AAB and grade A in the EPQ (MBiol applicants).
GCSE: Grade 6 (B) or above at GCSE maths and Grade 4 (C) or above at GCSE English.
The Faculty of Biological Sciences will accept Level 2 Functional Skills English in lieu of GCSE English.
-
Access to HE Diploma
BSc:
Pass 60 credits overall with 45 credits at Level 3, graded at D39M6P0 including distinctions in biology and mathematics or chemistry. Accept Access courses in Applied Science and Science. Will also consider (depending on subject content):biochemical sciences
biological and environmental science
biological and health science
biological sciences
biosciences
combined sciences
environmental science
life and biological science
life science
medical and health science professions
natural sciences
physical & natural sciences.
MBiol:
We do not accept Access to HE. -
BTEC
BSc:
Applicants with BTEC qualifications (Diploma or Extended Diploma) are required to have A2 level biology (maths, chemistry and physics may be acceptable alternatives depending on the BTEC subject). Distinctions in the BTEC subject and an A or B grade (BTEC subject dependent) for the A-level subject are required.Applicants with BTEC Subsidiary Diploma qualifications must have at least 2 A2 levels and at least one of these must be in biology.
MBiol: We do not accept BTEC qualification.
-
Cambridge Pre-U
BSc:
D3/D3/M1 including biology and preferably another science or science-related subject. If biology is the only science subject then a D3 grade will be required. Global Perspectives excluded.MBiol:
D3/D3/D3 including biology and preferably another science subject. Global Perspectives excluded.When an applicant is taking Global Perspectives this can be considered alongside Pre-U subjects and may attract an alternative offer in addition to the standard offer. This would be D3/M1/M1 and grade D3 in Global Perspectives (BSc applicants) or D3/D3/M1 and grade D3 in Global Perspectives (MBiol applicants).
-
International Baccalaureate
BSc:
34 (with 17 at higher level) including 6 in higher level biology and preferably another science or science-related subject at higher level.MBiol:
35 (with 18 at higher level) including 6 in higher level biology and preferably another science or science-related subject at higher level. -
Irish Leaving Certificate (higher Level)
BSc: H2,H2,H2,H2,H3,H3 including H2 in biology and preferably another science or science-related subject at higher level.
MBiol: H2,H2,H2,H2,H2,H2 including biology and preferably another science or science-related subject at higher level.
-
Scottish Highers / Advanced Highers
BSc:
Advanced Higher: 5 x Highers AABBB, with AB in 2 Advanced Highers including biology and preferably another science or science-related subject. General studies and critical thinking excluded. If biology is the only science subject then an A grade is required.MBiol:
Advanced Higher: 5 x Highers AABBB, with AA in 2 Advanced Highers including biology and preferably another science or science-related subject. General studies and critical thinking excluded.Science subjects include: biology, human biology, chemistry, maths and physics.
Science- related subjects include: computing, environmental science, geography, geology, P.E, psychology, science in society, statistics, food science and use of maths.
Scottish Higher: Scottish Highers not accepted on their own.
Read more about UK and Republic of Ireland accepted qualifications or contact the Schools Undergraduate Admissions Team.
Alternative entry
We’re committed to identifying the best possible applicants, regardless of personal circumstances or background.
Access to Leeds is a contextual admissions scheme which accepts applications from individuals who might be from low income households, in the first generation of their immediate family to apply to higher education, or have had their studies disrupted.
Find out more about Access to Leeds and contextual admissions.
Typical Access to Leeds offer
BSc – A level: BBB
MBiol – A Level: ABB
Specific A Level subjects required – see entry requirement section above.
GCSE: Grade 6 (B) or above at GCSE Maths and Grade 4 (C) or above at GCSE English.
Access to Leeds: Pass
International Foundation Year
International students who do not meet the academic requirements for undergraduate study may be able to study the University of Leeds International Foundation Year. This gives you the opportunity to study on campus, be taught by University of Leeds academics and progress onto a wide range of Leeds undergraduate courses. Find out more about International Foundation Year programmes.
English language requirements
IELTS 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in any component.. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.
Improve your English
If you're an international student and you don't meet the English language requirements for this programme, you may be able to study our undergraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.
How to apply
Apply to this course through UCAS. Check the deadline for applications on the UCAS website.
International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK students. Our network of international representatives can help you with your application. If you’re unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.
Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.
Admissions guidance
Visit our admissions guidance page for more information about applying to undergraduate courses in the Faculty of Biological Sciences.
Application process
The Faculty of Biological Sciences may consider applications submitted after this date. Availability of courses in UCAS Extra will be detailed by UCAS at the appropriate stage in the cycle.
Alternative Entry Scheme for mature applicants
As per the information detailed in the corresponding section of the University of Leeds Taught Admissions Policy the Faculty of Biological Sciences will consider prospective students via the Alternative Entry Scheme run by the Lifelong Learning where appropriate applicants will be referred to the Lifelong Learning Centre, who will advise the applicant further.
Interviews
Interview methods may vary depending on the circumstances and/or geographical location of the applicant. For example, interviews may take place on a one to one basis or via Skype, video conferencing or telephone. Where possible the Faculty of Biological Sciences will accommodate requests for alternative interview dates, however an alternative cannot be guaranteed.
Fees
UK: See fees section below
International: £25,250 (per year)
Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2024/25
Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students are set by the UK Government and will be £9,250 for students starting in 2024/25.
The fee may increase in future years of your course in line with inflation only, as a consequence of future changes in Government legislation and as permitted by law.
Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2025/26
Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students starting in 2025/26 have not yet been confirmed by the UK government. When the fee is available we will update individual course pages.
Tuition fees for international undergraduate students starting in 2024/25 and 2025/26
Tuition fees for international students for 2024/25 are available on individual course pages. Fees for students starting in 2025/26 will be available from September 2024.
Tuition fees for a study abroad or work placement year
If you take a study abroad or work placement year, you’ll pay a reduced tuition fee during this period. For more information, see Study abroad and work placement tuition fees and loans.
Read more about paying fees and charges.
Part-time fees
Fees for part-time courses are normally calculated based on the number of credits you study in a year compared to the equivalent full-time course. For example, if you study half the course credits in a year, you will pay half the full-time course fees for that year.
There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more on our living costs and budgeting page.
Financial support
If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There is help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Find out more in our Undergraduate funding overview.
The Faculty of Biological Sciences offer a range of scholarships for UK, EU and International students. Find out more about our scholarships
Career opportunities
As well as providing you with subject-specific knowledge, we aim to equip you with the best possible skills for a variety of future careers. All of our degrees have a strong emphasis on practical based teaching, small group teaching, online learning and problem solving.
Throughout the degree, you’ll gain a wide range of transferable skills which are highly valued by employers. Supported by the faculty student opportunity team, Leeds for Life scheme and your academic and personal tutor, you’ll be ideally placed to focus on your personal development and make the most of your time at university.
Ecologists have a vital role to play in monitoring and understanding our environment, how and why it is changing, and impacts on biodiversity now and in the future. The skills and knowledge you develop will be relevant to ecology-related careers as well as broader opportunities after graduation.
Typical graduate careers include:
Ecologist
Environmental Consultant
Secondary school teacher
Academic Researcher
Nature Conservation Officer
Examples of recent graduate destinations include:
Trainee Nature Reserves Officer
Ecologist
PhD Biology
PGCE
Careers support
We have a dedicated student opportunity team in the Faculty of Biological Sciences who work closely with the University’s Careers Centre.
We offer a host of additional opportunities beyond core course content, including volunteering and placements. These include our annual student-alumni networking event, where graduates are invited back to talk about their work and network with our students, and our STEM Careers Fair, which gives you the chance to meet bioscience employers, such as AstraZeneca, Labcorp, GSK, Nuffield NHS Ecological consultancies, speak to alumni, attend workshops and get masses of information.
We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That’s one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.
Leeds for Life is our unique approach to helping you make the most of University by supporting your academic and personal development. Find out more at the Leeds for Life website.
The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more about Careers support.
Study abroad and work placements
Study abroad
On this course you have the opportunity to apply to spend time abroad, usually as an extra academic year. We have over 300 University partners worldwide and popular destinations for our students include Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa and Latin America.
Find out more at the Study Abroad website.
If you choose to undertake a study abroad option, you will spend the third year of your course studying abroad. This will extend your studies by 12 months.
Work placements
Practical work experience can help you decide on your career and improve your employability. On this course you have the option to apply to take a placement year module with organisations across the public, private and voluntary sectors in the UK, or overseas.
Find out more about work experience on the Careers website.
Industrial placements are taken after your second year. This will extend your studies by 12 months. For your work placement in industry, the staff at Leeds will help you with your CV and recruitment process and provide details of organisations.
Placements abroad are possible. We work together with your industrial supervisors to make sure you get the most out of this year. A year working in industry gives you an excellent opportunity to get used to the demands of the world of work, to develop new skills and to augment your CV.
Combined study and working abroad
Our new module allows you to combine both a study abroad and industrial work placement into one additional year of study. Over the year you will study for a semester at one of our partner universities and complete an industrial work placement for 6 months abroad or in the UK.
Find out more about Combined study and work abroad.
Field courses
One of the most exciting aspects of our degrees is the range of opportunities for fieldwork on offer. Field courses offer valuable opportunities to apply your knowledge and practical research skills outside of the lab, so we offer the option of a field course in every year.
Year 1: Coastal & Upland Habitats, Millport
Compulsory module: A week’s in-depth study of animals and plants in their natural habitats. Students are allocated to a group and each group has its specialist topic. For example, you may explore diurnal rhythms in insects, rocky shore diversity, seaweed ecology or how parasitic disease affects animal distribution. You will have a chance to observe birdlife, seals and even whales (and the ice cream shop!).
Year 2: Mediterranean Ecology Field Course
Compulsory module: Usually involving a trip to the Iberian Peninsula, this course allows you to explore issues surrounding biodiversity conservation across Europe, including the challenges of growing human populations and habitat restoration. You’ll work in groups of two or three to conduct independent research projects. Recently these have included social interactions between macaque troops, the effects of feather parasites on bird performance and thermoregulation in lizards.
Year 2: Terrestrial Ecology and Behaviour, Malham Tarn, Yorkshire Dales
Optional module: Based at Malham Tarn in the Yorkshire Dales, an internationally important reserve in a spectacular limestone landscape with a wide variety of terrestrial and freshwater habitats. Projects may include territoriality and habitat preferences of woodland birds, the ecology of carnivorous plants, cave spiders and limestone pavement ecology. Plus there’s our infamous treasure hunt and pub quiz.
Year 3: South Africa Field Course
Optional module: Based at the Shamwari Game Reserve in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. The area is rich in plants, birds and mammals (including the ‘big five’ – elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion and leopard). Group projects designed by the students centre on the theme of a ‘landscape of fear’, and there are also guest lectures by local experts, a bird diary to complete, night drives in safari vehicles and a boat trip to watch birds and sometimes even whales.
Year 4: (MBiol) African Field Course
Our MBiol also offers you the chance to go to Kenya in your final year to conduct research at the Mpala Research Centre with a focus on ecological, conservation and wildlife management challenges in a semi-arid savannah environment. The course will be based primarily around small-group projects that are of ecological or conservation relevance to the region. This will reinforce and broaden your knowledge and understanding of the area and build upon aspects of the ecological training received at Leeds.