Animal Behaviour and Wildlife Conservation

Year 1 offers a thorough introduction to animal behaviour and the fundamentals of conservation. It also introduces key aspects of ecology, evolution and diversity, biogeography, physiology and ethology. A particular emphasis is placed on the techniques and the skills required for effective fieldwork.

Year 2 looks more closely at the theories behind the ways in which animals interact with each other and with their physical environments. A strong emphasis is put on developing research skills alongside experience of planning and undertaking data collection outside of the classroom. Aspects of conservation biology such as landscape ecology, conservation genetics and the role of captive populations are examined. Options for international field courses and work placements are available.

Year 3 offers an optional sandwich year or alternatively you could progress directly to your final year. This provides more detailed study of animal behaviour and its application in practical wildlife conservation in a range of settings from reserve design and landscape-scale conservation initiatives through to management of captive populations. Further opportunities for international field courses may be offered and you will also undertake and write up your own research project.