Wildlife Conservation BSc

Program Overview

Students gain practical skills through fieldwork and research projects, preparing them for careers in conservation biology and environmental management. The program's accreditation by the Royal Society of Biology ensures the quality and relevance of the curriculum.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The BSc Wildlife Conservation degree at Aberystwyth University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the ecological concepts that underpin the conservation of flora, fauna, and habitats on both local and global scales. The program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute to the conservation of biodiversity in their professional careers. The program takes a holistic approach, covering all aspects of wildlife conservation, including:

• Ecological and evolutionary processes: Students will learn about the processes that have shaped key habitats and the interactions between these habitats and the wildlife they support.
• Political, financial, and social forces: The program explores the factors that influence wildlife conservation and environmental management.

Outline:

Year 1

Core Modules:

• Climate and Climate Change (BR16620): This module explores the science of climate change, its impacts on biodiversity, and potential mitigation strategies.
• Ecology and Conservation (BR19320): This module introduces fundamental ecological principles and their application to conservation.
• Genetics, Evolution and Diversity (BR17120): This module covers the principles of genetics, evolution, and biodiversity.
• Microbial and Plant Diversity (BR19920): This module explores the diversity of microorganisms and plants, their ecological roles, and their conservation.

Options:

• Biological chemistry (BR17320): This module provides an introduction to the chemistry of living organisms.
• Comparative Animal Physiology (BR16720): This module explores the physiological adaptations of animals to different environments.
• Marine Biology (BR22620): This module explores the biology and ecology of marine organisms and ecosystems.
• Research Methods (BR27520): This module develops research skills, including experimental design, data analysis, and scientific writing.
• Wildlife Management (BR27220): This module examines the principles and practices of wildlife management.

Options:

• Animal Behaviour (BR21620): This module explores the behavior of animals, including its ecological and evolutionary significance.
• Applied Aquatic Conservation (BR26220): This module focuses on the conservation of aquatic ecosystems and species.
• Climate Change: Plants, Animals and Ecosystems (BR21120): This module examines the impacts of climate change on plants, animals, and ecosystems.
• Ecological Surveying (BR21420): This module provides practical training in ecological surveying techniques.
• Freshwater Biology (BR22020): This module explores the biology and ecology of freshwater organisms and ecosystems.
• Tropical Zoology Field Course (BR23820): This module offers a field course experience in tropical environments.

Year 3

Core Modules:

• Global Biodiversity Conservation (BR33420): This module examines the global challenges to biodiversity conservation and potential solutions.
• Research Project (BR36440): This module involves an independent research project under the supervision of a faculty member.
• Wildlife Conservation (BR34520): This module provides an in-depth exploration of wildlife conservation principles and practices.

Options:

• Animal Behaviour Field Course (BR34920): This module offers a field course experience focused on animal behavior.
• Environmental Regulation and Consultancy (BR35620): This module explores the legal and regulatory frameworks for environmental management.
• Population and Community Ecology (BR33920): This module examines the dynamics of populations and communities.
• Sustainable Land Management (BR30420): This module explores sustainable land management practices.
• Terrestrial Ecology Fieldcourse (BR36620): This module offers a field course experience in terrestrial ecosystems.

Assessment:

Students are assessed through a variety of methods, including:

• Essays: Written assignments that demonstrate critical thinking and analytical skills.
• Exams: Written examinations that assess knowledge and understanding of course material.
• Presentations: Oral presentations that allow students to communicate their research findings.
• Wikis: Collaborative online projects that demonstrate research and communication skills.
• Portfolios: Collections of student work that showcase their skills and progress.
• Reports: Written reports that document research findings or practical exercises.
• Practical exercises: Hands-on activities that assess practical skills and knowledge.
• E-media: Digital media projects that demonstrate creativity and communication skills.

Teaching:

• Lectures and seminars: These provide a structured framework for learning course material.
• Case studies: Real-world examples that illustrate the application of conservation principles.
• Laboratory practicals: Hands-on activities that develop practical skills and knowledge.
• Fieldwork: Practical experiences in natural environments that enhance learning and provide opportunities for data collection.
The majority of teaching staff in the Department of Life Sciences are qualified to PhD level and are research active. Vocational courses also have staff whose background lies within industry. The Department has a large number of research-only staff with whom students may have contact.

Careers:

Graduates of this degree are well-prepared for careers in conservation biology and environmental management within the UK and abroad. Potential employers include:

• Natural Resources Wales
• Wildlife Trusts
• Centre for Ecology and Hydrology
• RSPB
• National Trust
• Environment Agency
• Local authority departments
• NGOs
Graduates may also pursue careers in allied fields such as environmental education or undertake postgraduate study at Masters or PhD level.

Other:

• Aberystwyth's array of interesting and important habitats, including marine, moorland, mountain, grassland, and coast, provides the ideal natural classroom for the teaching of practical skills.
• Students have opportunities to view common and rare UK animal species such as bottlenose dolphins, Atlantic grey seals, pine martens, otters, ospreys, and red kites.
• Aberystwyth is a stone's throw away from many internationally recognized habitats, including UNESCO Dyfi Biosphere, two RAMSAR wetlands, two marine special areas of conservation, two National Nature reserves, and several sites of special scientific interest.
• This course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology.