Course summary

In an era of unprecedented global change, the need to conserve biodiversity has come to the forefront of both research and policy. Global biodiversity is facing a range of emerging threats, including climate change, habitat loss and fragmentation, and the introduction of invasive species. The BSc Wildlife Conservation degree at Aberystwyth University will equip you with an intimate understanding of the ecological concepts that underpin the conservation of flora, fauna and habitats on both local and global scales. BSc Wildlife Conservation will interest those wishing to take a holistic approach that covers all aspects of wildlife conservation, exploring background scientific knowledge and ecological concepts applied to the conservation of endangered flora, fauna and habitats. You will learn about the ecological and evolutionary processes that have shaped key habitats, and the interactions between these habitats and the wildlife they support. You will also explore the political, financial and social forces that underlie wildlife conservation and environmental management. You will recognise the importance of conserving biodiversity at a range of scales, from genetic diversity to entire biomes, and will develop the academic knowledge and practical skills to contribute to these priorities in your professional career. 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. As a student you will enjoy the unrivalled wildlife and countryside, with 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 recognised 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 to name but a few, providing you with fabulous fieldwork and recreational opportunities.  Graduates of this degree benefit from both the scientific and policy aspects that underlie wildlife conservation and will be well placed to pursue career opportunities in conservation biology and environmental management within the UK and abroad. Employers may include Natural Resources Wales, Wildlife Trusts, Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, RSPB, National Trust, Environment Agency, Local authority departments and NGOs. In addition, you may opt to pursue careers in allied fields such as environmental education, or to undertake postgraduate study at Masters or PhD level.