Ecology and Conservation Biology

Year 1 covers a wide range of topics, including biodiversity, evolution, ecological challenges and genetics, as well as optional modules such as Creating Sustainable Futures in the Schools of Geography and Earth and Environment. Ecology is best understood through observation, so Year 1 will also see you go to Scotland to undertake your first of the residential field courses that we offer. You’ll be introduced to the exciting world of ecological research right from the start.

In Year 2 you’ll specialise on the core issues in ecology and conservation biology, including population and community ecology, animal behaviour and evolution. You’ll also have opportunities to hone essential fieldwork skills during a residential field course on Mediterranean ecology in southern Spain and an optional terrestrial ecology and behaviour field course in the Yorkshire Dales. Optional modules include Animals as Pests and Sustainable Food Production.

This degree offers you the chance to take an industrial placement or a study abroad year at the end of Year 2, which will enhance your employment prospects.

The focal point of Year 3 is the independent research, literature, or computer-based project which you’ll carry out under the guidance of a leading academic. Alongside this you will work with field-leading experts on advanced topic modules such as ‘Ecology' and 'Conservation Science', developing your research techniques, knowledge and transferable skills. You’ll also have the chance to attend the optional South African field trip.

Integrated Masters (MBiol)

Our MBiol offers the chance to study key topics in ecology and conservation to Masters level.

Years 1 and 2 are the same as for the BSc.

In Year 3, as well as studying the same range of core and optional modules as the BSc, you’ll carry out a literature review and learn advanced research techniques in preparation for Year 4.

In Year 4 of the MBiol you will be more deeply involved in novel research by carrying out a substantial independent project of your own, potentially leading to a research publication. Your extended research project will focus 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 general graduate job market.

You will also study a range of Masters-level modules, and have the option to study savannah ecology and conservation on the African field course, which is based at Mpala Research Centre, Laikipia, Kenya. It 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.

Find out more about choosing between an integrated Masters and a BSc degree

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

These are typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our Terms and conditions.

Modules Year 1

Compulsory modules

• Biology Practicals and Data Analysis 20 credits
• Living Planet 20 credits
• Introduction to Genetics 10 credits
• Coastal and Upland Habitats Field Course 10 credits
• Research Experience and Skills Level 1 10 credits
• The Basis of Life 20 credits

Year 2

Compulsory modules

• Population and Community Ecology 20 credits
• Experimental Design and Analysis 10 credits
• Animal Behaviour 10 credits
• Organismal Evolution 10 credits
• Research Experience and Skills Level 2 10 credits
• Mediterranean Ecology Field Course 10 credits

Year 3

Compulsory modules

• Advanced Topics in Ecology 20 credits
• Advanced Topics in Conservation Science 20 credits
• Advanced Research Skills and Experience 20 credits
• Research Literature Review 20 credits

Year 4

Compulsory modules

• Extended Research Project 80 credits

For more information on typical modules, read Ecology and Conservation Biology MBiol, BSc in the course catalogue

Broadening your academic horizons

At Leeds we want you to benefit from the depth and breadth of the University's expertise, to prepare you for success in an ever-changing and challenging world. On this course you broaden your learning through core and/or optional modules. Find out more on the Broadening webpages.

Learning and teaching.

You’ll have access to the very best learning resources and academic support during your studies. We’ve been awarded a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF, 2017), demonstrating our commitment to delivering consistently outstanding teaching, learning and outcomes for our students.

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