BSc (Hons) Wildlife, Ecology and Conservation Science Bachelor's degree at the University of Suffolk
BSc (Hons) Wildlife, Ecology and Conservation Science at University of Suffolk. You will engage with core theory and applied practice, develop research and investigative methods, and pursue specialist options and an independent project of your own design, culminating in professional skills for the workplace.
About this course
Study Wildlife, Ecology and Conservation Science and benefit from a research-active teaching team, significant fieldwork and international travel opportunities. From the provider’s course page.
BSc (Hons) Wildlife, Ecology and Conservation Science is a Bachelor's degree (BSc (Hons)) at the University of Suffolk. It runs 3 years, studied full-time.
For Biological and sport sciences graduates from this provider, 90% were in work or further study 15 months after graduating, 50% in highly skilled roles, typical earnings around £25,500. (HESA Graduate Outcomes / LEO, via Discover Uni.)
For the typical curriculum, specialisations, career paths and graduate earnings for Sport & Exercise Science, see the sections below.
Course evidence score
The arithmetic mean of the official measures available for this course: NSS satisfaction, graduate activity and continuation.
Published threshold met NSS publication requires sufficient responses; small differences are not a rank. NSS mean of 7 published themes (Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Stronger evidence Published sample: 10,005. Cohort 2021-22. Graduate Outcomes work or further study 90% (2021-23; Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Published threshold met Discover Uni suppresses continuation data below its publication threshold. Cohort 2022-23. Continuation 90% (2022-23; Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Curriculum & modules
Real modules published for this course, grouped only where the source gives a year, stage or level.
Year 1 7 modules
- Scientific Skills
Module details
Core skills required to thrive on your degree programme; literature searching, experimental design, scientific methods, data analysis and effective communication of research findings. Essential for subsequent modules on the course.
- Cell Biology and Genetics
Module details
Introduction to the building blocks of life and the genetic code that connects all living organisms. Explores how cells function, communicate, and reproduce, and how genetics helps make sense of biodiversity, inheritance, and adaptation. Hands-on lab work in cell biology and molecular genetics techniques.
- Research Skills for Field Biologists
Module details
Field-based module taught predominantly on a one-week residential field course in the Highlands of Scotland. Introduces key measures for assessing wildlife populations, visits a range of habitats, and teaches how to track and identify common and protected British wildlife species.
- Ecology and the Environment
Module details
Explores complex interactions within natural ecosystems and examines pressing environmental challenges. Delves into fundamental ecological theories, natural processes in ecosystems, and critically assesses the impact of human activities on the planet. Fieldwork includes visits to RSPB reserves and practical methods in reptile and amphibian surveys.
- Diversity of Life
Module details
Follows the evolution of life from biomolecules and the first basic cells through to complex organisms such as mammals, birds and modern plants. Teaches the process of evolution through natural selection and how to classify organisms.
- Animal Behaviour and Zoological Management
Module details
Taught in partnership with Colchester Zoo, provides knowledge and research skills needed to study animal behaviour in both wild and captive environments. Covers the science of behavioural biology and how behavioural analysis can inform the husbandry and management of captive zoo animals.
- Vertebrate Biology
Module details
Explores the anatomy, function, and evolution of the major vertebrate groups. Includes hands-on learning with real specimens to identify species from bones, teeth, and hair. Practical skills essential for careers in zoology, veterinary science, evolutionary biology, palaeontology, conservation, and natural history museum curation.
Year 2 4 modules
- Conservation Biology
Module details
Covers core principles of theoretical conservation biology essential for developing strategies for managing and conserving biodiversity. Considers the economic, social and political issues that impact conservation.
- Wildlife SurveyingOptional
Module details
Trains in cutting-edge methods used to measure wildlife populations. Learn from leading spatial ecologists to design and implement surveys, and to analyse results with scientific rigor. Uses camera trapping, direct observation and audio to survey everything from bats to birds to large mammals.
- Habitat Surveying and GIS MappingOptional
Module details
Teaches internationally transferable GIS skills on QGIS - a widely used open-source GIS mapping program. Trains in 'UK Habitats' classification system and 'Biodiversity Net Gain' (BNG) calculations that governments, councils, ecological consultancies and wildlife NGOs require.
- Plant BiologyOptional
Module details
Gives students in the life sciences an understanding of the natural history of plants, the biodiversity, metabolism, cell biology, genetics and morphology. Discusses the role of plants in limiting climate change.
Year 3 5 modules
- Contemporary Wildlife Conservation
Module details
Brings you up to date with the latest advances in research on the front line of biodiversity conservation. Explores how new research can tackle the effects of human activities on biodiversity. Introduces innovative and rapidly evolving tools, technologies, and strategic approaches currently being employed to conserve wildlife.
- Advanced Ecological Research SkillsOptional
Module details
Provides specific training in analyses for independent research, preparing students for their dissertations and ultimately employment as scientists. Encompasses experimental design, research methods, specialist software, statistical analysis, ethics, and the preparation of grant proposals.
- Science Communication and Wildlife MediaOptional
Module details
Develops skills needed to convey complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences using various media platforms, including wildlife filmmaking, imaging, and educational outreach. Particularly valuable for those interested in careers in wildlife media, environmental education, and science teaching.
- Marine BiologyOptional
Module details
Designed for students passionate about the ocean and interested in ecology and conservation. Dives into the biology and conservation of marine mammals, fish, and aquatic ecosystems. Develops practical skills in assessing fish populations and aquatic habitats.
- EntomologyOptional
Module details
Focuses on insects, the most diverse and ecologically significant group of animals on Earth. Explores their fundamental importance due to their huge diversity, with more than a million described species representing more than half of all the world's described species.
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.
Who it's for
You are interested in how species interact with their habitats and ecosystems, and driven to understand conservation challenges and solutions. You will thrive with hands-on learning, fieldwork, travel, and research investigations, and have the curiosity and discipline to pursue independent study. This course suits those who combine scientific thinking with a passion for environmental stewardship and who want to develop both subject expertise and career-ready abilities.
University & format
This BSc (Hons) is studied full-time over 3 years at the University of Suffolk, a university founded in 2007 located in Suffolk. The course is taught in English and leads to a nationally recognised UK degree. The university holds a Bronze award for teaching quality from the Office for Students' TEF 2023.
Student satisfaction
How students on this course answered the National Student Survey, by theme.
Share of students responding positively.
Published threshold met NSS publication requires sufficient responses; small differences are not a rank. NSS mean of 7 published themes (Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Applicant information
The next application dates for this course, followed by facts the provider publishes.
- 2027 entryCompleted applications can be submitted
Your application needs a reference before you can send it.
- 2026 entryFinal date for 2026 applications
Applications must reach UCAS by 18:00 UK time.
- 2026 entryLast day to add a Clearing choice
Check that this course still has a vacancy before adding it.
- 2027 entryEqual-consideration deadline
18:00 UK time for most undergraduate courses.
Show 5 later dates
- 2027 entryUCAS Extra opens
Applicants who used all five choices and hold no offer may be able to add another choice.
- 2027 entryLast day applications go directly to providers
Applications received after 18:00 UK time are entered into Clearing.
- 2027 entryClearing opens
Eligible applicants can see vacancies and release themselves into Clearing.
- 2027 entryFinal date for 2027 applications
Applications must reach UCAS by 18:00 UK time.
- 2027 entryLast day to add a Clearing choice
Check that this course still has a vacancy before adding it.
Provider-published requirement; check the linked course page before applying.
Placement year. Availability, selection and pay can vary.
See and book current events. Dates can fill or change.
Entry & how to get in
Who gets in
What recently admitted students actually held, official admissions data, not a stated requirement.
UCAS tariff of entrants
Grades are the A-level equivalent of each points band. Tap a band to check your own chances below.
Qualifications held on entry
| Qualification | Share |
|---|---|
| A-levels or equivalent | 90% |
| No / unknown prior qualifications | 5% |
| Other | 5% |
Entry & your chances
An honest read from the official entry data, plus your personal match.
Accepted students came in with a broad spread of qualifications and UCAS points. If you're worried about grades, this course has historically taken a wide range, and contextual offers may apply.
Will you get in? Plot your grades
Pick your predicted A-levels and watch your UCAS points land on the real spread of students admitted to this course.
Each bar is the share of admitted students in that UCAS-points band (lower → higher). Grades show the A-level equivalent.
Based on the official admitted-student tariff distribution. Many universities make contextual (reduced-grade) offers, so a result below the range doesn’t rule you out.
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 13 January 2027, 18:00 UK time
UCAS equal-consideration deadline for most undergraduate courses. 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 University of Suffolk →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 Sport & Exercise Science graduates actually earn, from real outcome data, 15 months, 3 years and 5 years after graduating.
Graduate earnings: this course
| When | Median | Typical range | Graduates |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 months after | £25,500 | £23,000 – £30,000 | 10005 |
| 3 years after | £22,500 | £17,000 – £27,500 | 45 |
| 5 years after | £28,000 | £21,500 – £35,500 | 45 |
Nominal earnings for graduates of this course/subject at this provider. Stronger evidence. Published sample: 10,005. Cohort 2021-22.
Graduate outcomes, 15 months on: this course
- 1Graduate roleFirst role after the degree · 0–2 yrs
- 2Specialist / PractitionerWorking in sport & exercise 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 Sport & Exercise Science nationally
National figures for Sport & Exercise 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.
What happened to 100 students?
Choose an outcome to translate the published percentage into a simple 100-person view. Each dot represents one percentage point, not an individual tracked student.
were in work or further study
15 months after graduation
Source: Discover Uni, using Graduate Outcomes and continuation data. Cohorts: 2021-23. Stronger evidence. Published sample: 10,005. Cohort 2021-22. Each tab is a separate published measure; categories can overlap and should not be added together.
Value compared with similar courses
How this course’s 5-year median earnings compare with Sport & Exercise Science courses at the same study level.
Compared with 915 courses with compatible official earnings data. This is a course-value comparison, not a quality ranking.
UK occupations graduates enter
Published graduate destinations, joined conservatively to UK SOC 2020, ONS pay and Skills England demand.
- Conservation and environment professionalsSOC 2020 215 · 35% of published destinations · ASHE median £40,520
- Elementary occupationsSOC 2020 9 · 15% of published destinations · ASHE median £19,087
Discover Uni JOBLIST/JOBTYPE; ONS ASHE 2025 provisional, all employee jobs; Skills England Occupations in Demand 2025. SOC is shown only for an exact normalised label match; demand is shown only at exact four-digit SOC. Published sample: 30; response rate: 50%. Pay describes the occupation across workers, not a guaranteed graduate salary.
Job market & outlook
How Sport & Exercise 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 Sport & Exercise 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
- Sports clubs & NGBs
- Leisure providers
- Schools
- The NHS
Jobs after this course
Current roles from the StudySmarter job board that suit Sport & Exercise Science graduates.
Is this course right for you?
The essentials UK applicants ask about: finance, outcomes, entry and quality.
Student finance
For comparison, the standard full-time England tuition cap is up to £9,790 per year in 2026/27; the actual fee varies by course and provider. If you normally live in England, eligible students can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan, plus a Maintenance Loan for living costs. Under Plan 5 you repay 9% of income above £25,000, nothing below that, and the balance is written off after 40 years.
Where graduates go
90% were in work or further study 15 months after graduating, with a median salary of £25,500. See the full breakdown in Careers & earnings above.
Your entry chances
Use the UCAS points calculator above to see how your predicted grades compare with admitted students, and whether a contextual offer could apply.
Official-data snapshot
Averaging the official measures published for it, this course scores 8.8 out of 10: NSS 82.9% · in work or study 90% · continued 90%.
Who studies here and in this subject?
Provider- and UK subject-level context.
University of Suffolk
Biological and sport 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 University of Suffolk
1,566 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 Sport & Exercise Science right for you?
Tick what applies to you and see how good a fit it is.
International students
What applying to University of Suffolk from outside the UK involves: fees, English, visa, funding and living costs.
Tuition fees
International tuition is £16,440 / 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 University of Suffolk’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 University of Suffolk and gov.uk before you apply.
Related courses
More at University of Suffolk
Common questions
How competitive is entry?
What are the entry requirements?
What do graduates go on to do?
What will it cost me?
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