Genes to Ecosystems
Undergraduate
BSc (Hons)
Wildlife and Practical Conservation
School of Science, Engineering and Environment
Attendance
Full-time
Part-time
With placement
Course
Three year
Six year
Four year
Next enrolment
September 2020
In a nutshell
This course focuses on general conservation, the physical environment and landscape, as well as offering opportunities for you to study the ecology and behaviour of animals in the wild.
It is designed to provide you with a broad understanding of wildlife, wildlife ecology and environmental problems threatening species, from both theoretical and practical points of view. You will cover both physical and biological components of the environment as well as studying specialist modules in wildlife and environmental areas.
Zoos play an important role in the conservation of biodiversity and many species are now bred in captivity as part of national, regional and international breeding programmes. The EC Zoos Directive requires zoos and aquariums in the European Union to have a conservation role. As a result, it is likely that zoos across Europe will increase their breeding, scientific and education activities in the future, and with this degree you will have the skillset they are looking for.
In the 2020 NSS survey, wildlife courses received 100% overall satisfaction [based on University of Salford analysis of unpublished NSS 2020 data].
This programme has been accredited by the Royal Society of Biology.
You will:
- Gain a broad understanding of wildlife, wildlife ecology and environmental problems
- Acquire the practical skills used in wildlife conservation and zoos
- Have the opportunity to go on a variety of field trips including to the tropics
Placement
options available
International
students accepted
Course accreditations
This is for you if...
1.
You want real-world experience through field trip and placement opportunities (including international)
2.
You have a genuine broad interest in wildlife and conservation
3.
You enjoy working outdoors in all weathers, as well as collecting and analysing data
All about the course
Loss of biodiversity is an increasing concern at national, European and global levels. To work as a professional with wildlife and in conservation, you will need both practical skills and strong theoretical knowledge to meet the challenge of saving our wildlife and wild places.
This course is designed to provide you with a broad understanding of wildlife, biodiversity and conservation of the physical environment, while also offering more specialist knowledge in areas such as monitoring environmental change and habitat conservation and restoration.
In year one you will study a range of topics across several modules covering both theory and practice across the biological and environmental sciences. In your second year the course offers specialist modules in wildlife and environmental areas whilst your final year includes a dissertation on a wildlife, conservation or zoo biology topic of your choice. You are able to choose between two 40-credit project options. One allows you the opportunity to conduct an in-depth, data-generating, research project, the other permits you to develop a science communication output alongside your research project. During your second and third years, you will also have the opportunity to tailor your modules to suit your interests.
Through a number of field trips to zoos, animal parks and wetlands, as well as the chance to travel to the Amazon Rainforest as part of your course, you will have the opportunity to apply your skills and gain real-world context for your studies and begin your journey in conservation in an unforgettable way.
Year one
The aim of this module is to develop an understanding of basic genetics, evolution and population genetics and how these disciplines are relevant to wildlife studies. You will also look at how wildlife species interact with the ecosystems in which they live.
Biodiversity
This module focuses on the origins and diversity of living organisms (including humans), the environmental processes and their role in the generation of biodiversity.
Introduction to Zoo Biology
This module introduces you to the historical development and evolution of zoos, the basic anatomy and physiology of vertebrates, the principles of zoo enclosure design and the methods of handling and identifying individual animals.
Field Biology
This module introduces identification and measurement of organisms in the field, looking at common British species of animals and plants and awareness of their likely distribution, the production of identification drawings and the use of a range of ecological sampling equipment and methods.
Global Distribution of Wildlife
The module provides you an overview of the world’s major biomes. You learn about the importance of biogeography and the principal factors that drive the distribution of species and communities and how wildlife adapts to these factors.
Study Skills
In this module you will learn by observation, investigation, comparison and engagement and will develop practical learning and presentation methods which can be applied generically during year one and beyond. You will also gain an appreciation of Personal Development Planning and effective data handling, calculation and numerical skills.
Year two
Wildlife Study and Research Skills
The aim of this module is to show you how to learn by observation, investigation, comparison and engagement and to develop your practical learning and presentation methods which can be applied generically during the rest of the course and beyond.
Wildlife Behavioural Ecology
This module focuses on the principles of wildlife ecology and animal behaviour with particular reference to mammal and bird species. It also introduces scientific methods in the study of ecology and behaviour.
Conservation Biology
This module will introduce you to the modern concepts of conservation biology at the level of species and populations, the existing tensions between theory and practice in species conservation planning, and an overview of the interdisciplinary toolbox used by conservation biologists (for example IT packages and DNA fingerprints). You will also be given the chance to design an appropriate conservation programme for a species or population, including the projection of future survival under varying scenarios.
Monitoring Environmental Change
This module will introduce you to the theory and practice of acquiring environmental data and will demonstrate how natural and human factors have influenced landscapes and ecosystems.
Choose one option from
Ecology in Action
You will study the fundamental principles of population and community ecology, including the impact that factors such as competition, predation and parasitism may have on population size and community structure. This module also has a residential field course where students put theory into practice and conduct their own ecological studies.
Animal Evolution (Marine and Wildlife)
This module provides an overview of how diversity in the animal kingdom has evolved. It also illustrates the basic principles of evolution as a force to create biodiversity.
University Wide Language
Courses are available in: Arabic, German, French, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese and Spanish.
Plus one option from
Ocean Challenges
In this module you will learn about the challenges faced by the marine ecosystems and marine organisms. The module provides the you with the opportunity to engage in actual data collection and data analysis during a residential course (compulsory to the module). You will also look at contemporary environmental issues in marine biology. The module encourages you to adopt an investigative approach to ecological studies.
Primate Behaviour and Conservation
This module aims to provide you with knowledge of the structure and evolution of primate societies. You will look at the Primate Order, its distribution and the conservation priorities for primate species. You will gain an understanding of the ecological and demographic processes that underlie different types of social systems and an insight into the way in which evolutionary ecological, genetic and physiological analyses can facilitate this understanding.
Animal Welfare: Science and Practice
The aim is to provide a theoretical and practical understanding of animal welfare science whereby students get to critically assess the outcomes of different solutions to real-world animal welfare problems.
University Wide Language
Courses are available in: Arabic, German, French, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese and Spanish.
Year three
Environmental Geographical Information Systems
The aim of this module is to develop your knowledge and understanding of the factors controlling the design and implementation of GIS solutions to map, monitor and model terrestrial environments. You will also examine the major issues and impacts of GIS evolution and diffusion on society.
Habitat Conservation and Restoration
The aim of this module is to develop an understanding of conservation science at the habitat level, including the restoration of ecosystems which underwent human-induced deterioration in the past.
Choose one option from
Final Year Project & Professional Skills
This dissertation module allows you to develop independent, experimental, investigative and analytical research skills as you conduct a substantial research project based around a specific aspect/topic in your relevant bioscience discipline area.
Final Year Project with Science Communication and Professional Skills
This dissertation module allows you to develop independent, investigative and analytical research skills while conducting research on topic in an area relevant to your programme of study. It further allows you to learn about science communication and the variety of ways in which science can be disseminated and communicated.
Plus two options from
Modelling Environmental Systems (Wildlife)
This module will introduce theory and concepts of modelling in the environment and life sciences, including in population biology and infectious disease epidemiology. You will be introduced to the range of technical, programming and software skills required for model derivation, analysis and visualisation.
Tropical Ecology and Conservation
This module is based round a 2-week field trip to a tropical biology field station. Students will learn concepts in, and approaches to, tropical ecology and conservation and biodiversity in tropical ecosystems. The module involves an independent research project in the field that will be written up as a scientific report.
Applied Freshwater Biology
This module aims to enable you to gain a knowledge and critical understanding of the biology and ecology of freshwater systems relevant to the water industry and related organisations which regulate and control pollution of the aquatic environment.
It also provides you with the necessary skills and techniques to undertake biological and chemical evaluation of water quality ecology, fish population and condition to apply these in novel situations to generate data for interpretation. In particular, you will be provided with the necessary laboratory skills to test water quality to the standards of the Water Framework Directive UK.
Environmental Decision Making Systems
This module examines the role of decision-making in the management of natural resources and ecosystem services. You will investigate the role of environmental modelling in supporting environmental decision-making and assess the effectiveness of decision-making tools including Environmental Impact Assessment, hazard and risk analysis, and life-cycle analysis.
Wildlife and Law
This module focuses on the UK, European and international nature conservation law and the statutory and non-statutory organisations concerned with the protection of the natural environment.
Animal Cognition and Social Complexity
The aim of this module is to develop an understanding of the cognitive abilities and limitations of nonhuman animals, with a particular focus on nonhuman primates. The course also develops your understanding of the cognitive challenges associated with living in complex social groups.
University Wide Language
Courses are available in: Arabic, German, French, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese and Spanish.
Mitigating Climate Change (Wildlife)
This module will help you develop a detailed understanding of the scientific principles underlying how changing climate has an effect on the natural world, urban environments and society. This knowledge will enable you to appreciate the implications of climate change on biodiversity, ecosystems and society, whilst identifying what adaptations can be made to mitigate climate change.
Please note that it may not be possible to deliver the full list of options every year as this will depend on factors such as how many students choose a particular option. Exact modules may also vary in order to keep content current. When accepting your offer of a place to study on this programme, you should be aware that not all optional modules will be running each year. Your tutor will be able to advise you as to the available options on or before the start of the programme. Whilst the University tries to ensure that you are able to undertake your preferred options, it cannot guarantee this.
School of Science, Engineering and Environment
Rising to the challenge of a rapidly changing world, our multi-disciplinary courses will shape the next generation of urbanists, scientists, engineers, consultants and conservationists. Shaped by industry and delivered by supportive programme teams, you can develop the skills to become unstoppable in your career.
facilities
You will experience a modern learning environment, enriched with accessible lecture theatres and AV-equipped classrooms, computing suites and multimedia libraries, with access to industry journals, databases, and simulation software.
As a wildlife conservation student, you will have access to our state-of-the-art, integrated teaching laboratory known as the Bodmer Lab. The Bodmer Lab is a specialist, purpose-built facility and ensures our students benefit from the latest technologies to support their learning and remain on the cutting edge of innovation and discovery.
What about after uni?
There are many opportunities to gain employment in non-governmental organisations (NGOs), the voluntary sector and government conservation organisations operating at local, national and international levels.
Opportunities exist to work as ecologists and environmental consultants, and in environmental education and captive animal environments. Previous students have gained employment in wildlife rescue centres, country parks, animal sanctuaries, zoos, and environmental and ecological consultancies.
Furthermore, graduates have undertaken research for a PhD including studying orangutans in Borneo, large animals in Tanzania and various projects in urban ecology.
FURTHER STUDY
Career Links
As a result of our close links to industry, you will have the opportunity to go on several field trips which may include visits to Chester Zoo, South Lakes Wild Animal Park, Knowsley Safari Park, Blackpool Zoo, Twycross Zoo, Dudley Zoo and Martin Mere (Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust). In addition, staff from some of these institutions contribute lectures to the course bringing more real world examples to your learning.
Students have undertaken work placements in a wide range of countries including South Africa, Madagascar, Spain, Greece, and the USA, working with a very wide range of animals from donkeys and wolves to seals and turtles. You will arrange your placement with our support.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
APPLICANT PROFILE
You will have a genuine broad interest in wildlife and conservation, enjoy working outdoors in all weathers, as well as collecting and analysing data. We expect you to be interested in biology, geography and the environment. We welcome applications from mature students who may not have academic qualifications in relevant subjects, but have experience in zoos or conservation organisations.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS
International applicants will be required to show a proficiency in English. An IELTS score of 6.0, with no element below 5.5, is proof of this.
Please note: The entry criteria below are related to entry onto this course in the 2020/2021 academic year. If you’re interested in a future intake year, please check the course entry on UCAS.
Standard entry requirements
GCSE
English language and mathematics at grade C or 4 or above
You must fulfil our GCSE entry requirements as well as one of the requirements listed below
UCAS tariff points
104 - 112 UCAS points
A level
104 - 112 UCAS points
BTEC National Diploma
DMM
Diploma in Foundation Studies
104 - 112 UCAS points, Merit/Distinction
Scottish Highers
104 - 112 UCAS points from Higher Level
Irish Leaving Certificate
104 - 112 UCAS points from Higher Level
European Baccalaureate
Pass in Diploma of at least 60% including at least one science subject
International Baccalaureate
30 points
Alternative entry requirements
Salford Alternative Entry Scheme (SAES)
We welcome applications from students who may not meet the stated entry criteria but who can demonstrate their ability to pursue the course successfully. Once we have received your application we will assess it and recommend it for SAES if you are an eligible candidate.
There are two different routes through the Salford Alternative Entry Scheme and applicants will be directed to the one appropriate for their course. Assessment will either be through a review of prior learning or through a formal test.
How much?
| Type of study | Year | Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time home | 2020/21 | £9,250per year |
| Full-time international | 2020/21 | £15,240per year |
| Part-time | 2020/21 | Your annual fee will be calculated pro rata to the full-time fee according to the number of credits you are studying |
| Full-time home | 2021/22 | £9,250per year |
| Full-time international | 2021/22 | £15600per year |
| Part-time | 2021/22 | Your annual fee will be calculated pro rata to the full-time fee according to the number of credits you are studying |
Additional costs
All field trips are funded by the university but you may need to consider additional costs such as food and spending money.
International field trips that are part of core modules are also funded by the university but you will need to pay towards international field trips that are part of optional modules (although these are subsidised by the university) and you will be made aware of these costs before selecting the module. For the trip to tropics (as part of the optional Tropical Ecology and Conservation module) there is a fee of about £600 and students need to pay for their own flights and visa.
You should also consider further costs which may include books, stationery, printing, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits.
Scholarships 2021/22
Students on this course have previously benefitted from a scholarship to support their study and living costs. Visit the scholarships page for more information about available scholarships.
To celebrate Salford's expertise and industry links, high achieving international students may be eligible for an International Excellence Scholarship worth up to £3,500. Visit the international scholarships page for more information.
Interested in starting university in September 2021? Book your place on our next Open Day.