BSc (Hons) Ecology And Conservation Bachelor's degree at Edge Hill University
BSc (Hons) Ecology And Conservation at Edge Hill University covers core theory, research and methods, applied practice, specialist options, an independent project, and professional skills.
About this course
Explore the intricate world of ecology and conservation at Edge Hill. Gain insights into environmental preservation and make a positive impact on our planet. From the provider’s course page.
BSc (Hons) Ecology And Conservation is a Bachelor's degree (BSc (Hons)) at Edge Hill University, based in Ormskirk. It is studied part-time; duration varies by route.
For the typical curriculum, specialisations, career paths and graduate earnings for Environmental Science, see the sections below.
Curriculum & modules
Real modules published for this course, grouped only where the source gives a year, stage or level.
Year 1 8 modules
- Biology in PracticeCompulsory20 credits
Module details
Biology in Practice looks at the nature of biological enquiry, the ways that biological knowledge develops, and the contribution biology makes to society.
Assessment: 55% Coursework 45% Practical
- EcologyCompulsory20 credits
Module details
Ecology introduces concepts fundamental to populations and communities using examples from across habitats and ecosystems. You will learn the basic skills required for employment and further ecological study including plant and animal identification, field surveying, microscopy, safe laboratory and field practice, and, data handling. Half and full-day field trips include sampling animals and plants to develop concepts such as energetics, food webs, limiting factors and ecosystem functioning. You
Assessment: 100% Coursework
- Genetics and EvolutionCompulsory20 credits
Module details
Genetics and Evolution introduces the genetic and environmental control of an individual's characteristics. The module outlines how variation at DNA and chromosomal level leads to variation in the phenotype and genotype and the potential consequences of this variation including speciation. Taking a largely population genetics approach, you will study mutation, genotypic and phenotypic variation, meiosis, Mendelian inheritance, phylogeny and speciation.
Assessment: 60% Coursework 40% Exam
- Introduction to Cell BiologyCompulsory20 credits
Module details
Introduction to Cell Biology focuses on the cell as the basic biological unit. Using a range of activities, you will examine the molecular components that determine the structure, biochemical nature and physiology of different cells. This will then enable you to appreciate the significance of a range of environmental influences. Practical activities, including a number of core biological exercises, will be used to reinforce these aspects and equip you with skills and confidence in scientific lab
Assessment: 50% Coursework 50% Exam
- BiodiversityOptional20 credits
Module details
Biodiversity provides an overview of the diversity of life, the major taxonomical groups and their phylogenetic relationship. Sub-divided into distinctive microbial (including viral, bacterial and archaeal), plant, fungal, and animal sections, the module covers key findings on the definition, the origin, and the evolution of life. You will develop a range of subject-specific and transferable skills to enhance your employability, including microscopy and slide preparation, as well as information
Assessment: 50% Coursework 50% Practical
- Chemistry for BiologistsOptional20 credits
Module details
Chemistry for Biologists introduces the basics of chemistry, involving clear and lucid explanations of chemical concepts with a coherent problem solving approach. Building your understanding of the periodic table, atomic and molecular structures, pH, solutions, chemical reactions, model buildings and practical skills are the core elements of this module. The aim is to provide you with a toolkit of knowledge and practical skills within chemistry and linking to wider concepts within biological and
Assessment: 50% Coursework 50% Exam
- Language 1Optional20 credits
Module details
Language 1 is ideal if you want to learn a new language, or further develop your current language skills, as an integrated part of this degree. The module will be taught in an interactive, communicative manner, using authentic materials in the target language. Emphasis will be placed on all four areas of reading, writing, speaking and listening. You will play an active role in the classes, engaging in role-plays, short conversations, videos, authentic texts and listening materials. You will also
Assessment: 85% Coursework 15% Practical
- Environmental IssuesOptional20 credits
Module details
Environmental Issues provides an awareness and understanding of the nature of environmental issues facing the world today. The module explores the important impact that people have on the environment and the influence that the environment exerts on people. It will focus on both natural hazards and the modification of environmental systems by human activity and the problems this may pose. You will have the opportunity to consider issues such as climatic change, water quality, flooding, biodiversi
Assessment: 100% Coursework
Year 2 9 modules
- Research Methods in BiologyCompulsory20 credits
Module details
Research Methods in Biology develops essential biological research methods and data analysis skills, providing a sound base for a future dissertation. The module begins with sessions on experimental design and statistical analysis, working with varied types of data, and culminates with the design and implementation of a one-week research project.
Assessment: 100% Coursework
- BiogeographyCompulsory20 credits
Module details
Biogeography examines spatial and temporal patterns of living organisms over the earth's surface and highlights the fundamental processes and causal factors which determine these patterns. This includes themes such as climate, evolutionary history, continental drift, spatial area, isolation, succession and disturbance. Key themes such as biodiversity and the history and development of ecological communities through time run through the whole module. The module culminates in exploring the impacts
Assessment: 60% Exam 40% Coursework
- Zoo Conservation and Animal BehaviourOptional20 credits
Module details
Zoo Conservation and Animal Behaviour provides you with an introduction to the fields of off-site (ex-situ) management and animal behaviour and the intersection between these two areas. You'll explore how and why species are managed in captivity with consideration of species-specific needs. The module will also introduce the theories and methodologies in animal behaviour and will be combined with consideration of abnormal behaviours in captive animals and the management methods employed to reduc
Assessment: 100% Coursework
- Invertebrate EcologyOptional20 credits
Module details
Invertebrate Ecology explores the diversity of terrestrial and aquatic invertebrates, examining their life cycle, basic physiology, importance to ecosystem functioning and the range of services with which they provide society. You will learn quantitative sampling techniques as well as navigation, health and safety assessment and ethical considerations. You will also develop a sound knowledge of taxonomy for a variety of groups such as aquatic insects, spiders and beetles, gaining the identificat
Assessment: 50% Coursework 50% Practical
- Up-Canopy BiologyOptional20 credits
Module details
Up-Canopy Biology provides you with the essential knowledge and practical skills to study forest canopies. You will learn practical canopy access skills during a five day intensive Basic Canopy Access Proficiency (BCAP) course. The climbing course will have the option of external certification by Canopy Access Ltd who have over 20 years experience of providing rigging and technical rope training solutions for the wildlife film industry. You will learn how to access the canopy safely and the chal
Assessment: 60% Coursework 40% Exam
- Molecular GeneticsOptional20 credits
Module details
Molecular Genetics provides an understanding of several aspects of the regulation of gene expression both in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. The module is essential preparation for studying more advanced topics in the fields of genetics and biotechnology. You will explore and acquire practical skills in molecular techniques such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), gene expression monitoring and genome editing by cloning. Basic concepts in bioinformatics will be introduced and you will gain hands-on
Assessment: 50% Coursework 50% Exam
- The Secret Life of TreesOptional20 credits
Module details
The Secret Life of Trees provides you with an understanding of tree structure and physiology. It explores the basic tree structure of leaves, roots and stem as well as specialised structures that enable such organisms to survive and reproduce. It includes anatomical aspects such as secondary thickening, transport structures and timber characteristics alongside biochemical aspects such as photosynthesis, water regulation and hormonal response to external stressors. Throughout this module, you wil
Assessment: 50% Coursework 50% Exam
- Ecology and Conservation PlacementOptional20 credits
Module details
Ecology and Conservation Placement gives you the opportunity to gain real-world experience in the conservation and ecology sector. You will take what you've learned in your other modules and put it into practice during this placement which will help you deepen your understanding of ecological theory while appreciating the challenges of hands-on conservation work. Through the Department of Biology's extensive network of contacts, you'll receive support in finding a placement that matches your int
Assessment: 100% Coursework
- Animal and Wildlife Conservation: International Field CourseOptional
Source: provider course page. Modules can change; required/optional status, credits, descriptions and assessment are shown only when explicitly published.
Course in depth
What this course covers, who it suits and where it leads.
What you'll study
This course introduces you to ecology and conservation, with a focus on environmental preservation and understanding how ecosystems work. You'll usually begin with foundations in earth systems, ecology and environmental data analysis, including practical GIS skills. Year 2 moves into climate science, pollution management and hands-on fieldwork. In your final year, you'll choose specialist options such as climate science, conservation, GIS & remote sensing, environmental policy, or water & pollution, complete real-world sustainability projects with organisations, and conduct an independent research dissertation. The progression builds from systems-level understanding through applied practice to specialist depth.
Who it's for
This course suits students seeking flexible study in environmental science. Part-time delivery allows you to balance academic work with other commitments. The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical application, preparing you for roles requiring both specialist knowledge and hands-on experience in ecology and conservation.
University & format
This BSc (Hons) is delivered part-time at Edge Hill University, a public university in Ormskirk. Edge Hill holds Silver recognition for teaching quality in the Office for Students' TEF 2023 and is recognised as a UK degree-awarding body; degrees are nationally recognised.
Applicant information
The next application dates for this course, followed by facts the provider publishes.
Provider-published requirement; check the linked course page before applying.
Part-time application dates vary by provider. UCAS dates
See and book current events. Dates can fill or change.
Opened 2 July 2026; last choice 19 October 2026. Check vacancies now. A cached page never claims a place is still available.
Entry & how to get in
Entry & your chances
An honest read from the official entry data, plus your personal match.
Entry is set by the university and based on your offer. Use your predicted grades to see how you compare, then check the university's stated requirements.
How to apply
Undergraduate applications go through UCAS. Here’s what matters for this course, the right deadline, the grades to aim for, and the steps in order.
- 1Register on UCAS Hub
Create your UCAS application and add this course (code C180). One application covers up to five choices.
- 2Write your personal statement
A single statement covers all your choices, so keep it broad enough for similar courses while showing genuine interest in this subject.
- 3Submit by Apply directly to the provider
Part-time application dates vary by provider. Source: UCAS 2027 dates.
- 4Reply to your offers
When decisions are in, pick a firm (first) choice and an insurance (back-up) choice with slightly lower grades.
- 5Results day & confirmation
On results day (mid-August) your place is confirmed if you meet the offer. Just missed? Talk to the university, or find a place through Clearing.
Fees & funding
What this course costs and how UK student finance covers it.
Tuition per year
Provider fee page (England 2026/27 cap where not stated).
Check fees at Edge Hill University →For students who normally live in England
2026/27 Student Finance England figures. Maintenance support is means-tested and this two-point view is not an entitlement calculator. The course total uses its published length and home fee where both are available; a missing full-time fee uses the clearly labelled England-cap scenario, while part-time fees and unknown lengths are never guessed. Use the official calculator. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland use separate systems: SAAS, Student Finance Wales, and Student Finance NI.
Starting on or after 1 January 2027?
The Lifelong Learning Entitlement is a separate system. A new learner’s tuition entitlement is currently stated as £39,160 (about 480 credits at 2026/27 fee levels), subject to prior study and eligibility. Check the official LLE guide.
Paying for it
- Tuition Fee Loan: can cover eligible tuition up to the applicable limit and is paid straight to the provider.
- Maintenance Loan: up to £10,830/yr away from home outside London (England, 2026/27), means-tested on household income.
- Repayment: 9% of income above £25,000, nothing below it; written off after 40 years.
- Earn alongside: most students work part-time in term, part-time roles on the StudySmarter job board.
England figures shown; Scotland, Wales & NI run their own schemes, check gov.uk.
Scholarships & bursaries you could qualify for
That does not mean no funding exists. Check the university directory for current amounts, eligibility and application dates.
We only display a named award when its provider source identifies the award and who it is for.
Still deciding what to study?
StudyKit brings course choice, applications and funding together in one place, with a personal AI assistant. Find what really fits you and start your UCAS application step by step.
Careers & earnings
What Environmental Science graduates actually earn, from real outcome data, 15 months, 3 years and 5 years after graduating.
- 1Graduate roleFirst role after the degree · 0–2 yrs
- 2Specialist / PractitionerWorking in environmental science · 2–5 yrs
- 3Senior / LeadLeading work and people · 5–10 yrs
- 4Head of / ExpertSenior leadership or deep expertise · 10+ yrs
How pay grows: this course vs Environmental Science nationally
National figures for Environmental Science graduates, HESA Graduate Outcomes (15 months) and the Longitudinal Education Outcomes (LEO) dataset (3 & 5 years). These are national, not university-specific; actual pay varies by employer, region, role and experience. Different cohorts, so the bars are not one group over time.
Work out your pay
Headline figures hide a lot. Calculate realistic take-home pay for this field by role, region and experience, then check your CV before you apply.
Job market & outlook
How Environmental Science graduates fare in the labour market, and how AI is reshaping the work.
How AI is changing the work
AI doesn't replace the profession, it shifts it: routine tasks get automated, while judgement, working with people and using AI well become more valuable.
What AI takes off your plate
- Routine information gathering
- First-draft writing and summaries
- Standard analysis and admin
- Repetitive processing tasks
More human than ever
- Judgement and original thinking
- Working with and leading people
- Owning and sense-checking AI output
- Ethics and accountability
The strongest graduates pair subject depth with the ability to use AI tools critically.
Roles & employers
Where Environmental Science graduates typically go, indicative destinations from graduate career data. Each role links to live openings on the StudySmarter job board.
Roles graduates go into
Where they work
- Environmental consultancies
- Environment Agency
- Energy & utilities
- NGOs & local authorities
Jobs after this course
Current roles from the StudySmarter job board that suit Environmental Science graduates.
Who studies here and in this subject?
Provider- and UK subject-level context.
Edge Hill University
Geography, earth and environmental studies (social sciences) across the UK
HESA student record 2024/25. Counts are rounded.
Local crime-data context
A neutral snapshot around the published teaching location.
Around Ormskirk
220 street-level reports returned within roughly one mile across 2026-04 to 2026-06.
Police.uk street-level API. Approximate locations, not confined to campus. England, Wales and Northern Ireland; not Scotland.
Is Environmental Science right for you?
Tick what applies to you and see how good a fit it is.
International students
What applying to Edge Hill University from outside the UK involves: fees, English, visa, funding and living costs.
Tuition fees
International tuition is £14,500 / year for this course (from the provider’s fee page). You’re not eligible for UK Tuition Fee or Maintenance Loans, so plan for fees plus living costs upfront.
English language
Most UK undergraduate courses ask for around IELTS 6.0–6.5 (no band below 5.5–6.0), or an accepted equivalent. If you’re just short, most universities run a pre-sessional English course that counts towards the requirement.
Student visa
You’ll usually need a Student visa (Student Route). After you accept an offer the university issues a CAS; you then show funds for fees plus about £1,023–£1,334/month living costs and pay the Immigration Health Surcharge for NHS access.
Scholarships & funding
Many universities offer international/global scholarships (often £2,000–£6,000/yr), check Edge Hill University’s funding pages.
Living costs
Budget roughly £1,100–£1,400/month outside London and £1,400–£1,800/month in London for rent, food and travel; the figure also matters for your visa.
Working while you study
A Student visa usually allows up to 20 hours/week in term time and full-time in holidays, useful alongside study, though not something to rely on for fees.
Visa rules and fees change. Always confirm the current requirements with Edge Hill University and gov.uk before you apply.
Related courses
More at Edge Hill University
Environmental Science at other universities
BA (Hons) English Studies and Climate ChangeAberystwyth University
BSc (Hons) Environmental Earth Science (with integrated year in industry)Aberystwyth University
BSc (Hons) Environmental Earth Science (with integrated year studying abroad)Aberystwyth University
BSc (Hons) Environmental Earth ScienceAberystwyth UniversityCommon questions
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What do graduates earn?
What will it cost me?
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