Wildlife Ecology and Conservation

What makes UCS special? We have an enviable reputation for our work as we have run specialist Wildlife Ecology and Conservation courses since 1973. Our tutors are industry experts with practical experience and qualifications relevant to their particular specialism, as well as staying actively involved in the study and management of ecology, the environment, wildlife, conservation, game and the countryside. Their contacts and experience will open the doors to your career in the ecology industry.

We have also established close links with a range of landowners and conservation organisations throughout the country, including The Wildlife Trusts and have unprecedented access to a wide variety of sites, so that students can experience a diversity of wildlife, habitats and their management first hand. Site visits and presentations given by visiting speakers with specific expertise are integrated into our courses, giving you a valuable insight into the industry before you join it.

Students benefit from our own 183-hectare estate that provides a managed rural environment. This includes an ancient semi-natural woodland designated as a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation, a lake with reed-bed, a woodland shelterbelt with newly established woodland, recreated semi-natural grassland and a Game and Wildlife Centre that gives students practical industry skills alongside academic knowledge.

What will I learn? You will develop the expertise to understand and evaluate the current and emerging science in global planetary change, natural resource management, ecosystem services, wildlife conservation and sustainability, all embedded within the theme of applied ecological science. You will develop the skills to analyse and monitor diverse ecosystems in the field and design and effectively implement management plans for wildlife conservation. You will also develop skills for employment as well as numerical, digital, qualitative and quantitative techniques to understand the planetary changes and contribute positively to conservation and sustainability.

Our strong links with external experts, research groups and landowners mean you will enjoy access to a wide range of interdisciplinary expertise and appropriate field sites as well as University Centre Sparsholt’s own excellent resources. You will gain practical experience and contacts with a variety of organisations through visits, guest speakers and work placements to build networks for future employment.

How will I be assessed? Final and in-session assessment will allow you to develop research and study skills as well as technical and expert knowledge. Assessments include written assignments, presentations, project and lab reports, practical based and online portfolios and examinations.

Where can I go from here? You can continue your studies with our BSc (Hons) Top-up programme, or enter industry. Many of our graduates use their skills to start a business or to work in wildlife conservation or consultancy with NGOs (Non-Government Organisations) such as The Wildlife Trusts or government bodies such as Natural England.