Ecology Degree
Ecology degree - 3 years (C180)
Ecology is the study of how a wide range of organisms interact with each other and with the environment. Such knowledge underpins our understanding about how wildlife and biodiversity responds to both current and future environmental threats including climate change and habitat destruction. It also provides us with an insight into the way the natural world operates. At the heart of such study is the development of a toolkit of field surveying skills in our very own natural laboratory around Aberystwyth.
Content and Structure
This degree focuses on the interactions between organisms and their environment. This is studied through a combination of field, laboratory and lecture learning. At Aberystwyth we have access to excellent research and teaching facilities, but Ecology students also benefit significantly from our location. We have local access to a wide range of natural and semi-natural habitats and ecosystems including the Cardigan Bay coastline, freshwater environments, woodlands, heaths, moorland and alpine habitats. We are within easy reach of several nature reserves including Snowdonia and the Brecon Beacons National Parks. We also have established links with the British Trust for Conservation Volunteers, National Botanic Garden of Wales, the Countryside Council for Wales, RSPB and various wildlife and woodland trusts.
Year 1
During the first year of this course you will take core and optional modules which provide you with a knowledge and understanding of Ecology upon which you can build during your second and third years. You will also develop further your knowledge and understanding of general biology and the environment. This culminates in a biodiversity field course which integrates theoretical learning into practice.
Years 2 and 3
In the second and third years the course aims to provide you with an essential core and a breadth of in-depth knowledge in Ecology. Through optional modules you can further gain more specialist knowledge focusing either on:
a) the more biological elements,
b) gaining knowledge about the applied field (through conservation), or
c) learning about marine and freshwater systems.
Aberystwyth is ideally situated as a venue for field courses in aquatic and terrestrial ecology. Our more advanced Ecology field studies are carried out in locations including the Swedish arctic where students come face-to-face with pristine ecosystems and wildlife whilst enjoying the midnight sun. This degree course also provides many opportunities for you to develop your own interests through your choice of study modules and various research projects. In particular, through the Research Dissertation and Research Communication modules in the third year, you can research topics in-depth including wildlife biology, natural history, climate change impacts, habitat destruction and restoration, plant and animal biodiversity.
Teaching and Learning
The course is structured around a mix of practical classes, field trips, small group tutorials, and interactive lectures. This wide range of activities helps you to integrate science and practice relevant to environmental processes. You will be assessed through a combination of coursework, including practical reports, presentations, essays and written examinations.
Careers opportunities
Ecology graduates are sought after by employers in a range of areas. As a graduate you would be well-qualified to find jobs and research posts in conservation and environmental protection. The breadth of the course also presents a sound basis for a career in teaching, either in schools and colleges or in field centres. Other career opportunities include working for government or commercial laboratories, local or national government, environmental consultancy, publishing and public services. Our graduates are excellently placed to apply for jobs with organisations such as, DEFRA, the Environment Agency, the Countryside Council for Wales, Natural England, ADAS, the Forestry Commission, Scottish Wildlife Trust, the Wales Environment Link, the National Grid, and Severn Trent Water. Furthermore, some Ecology graduates transfer to other careers including business, commerce and law after further professional or in-post training. Students are particularly well-equipped for further professional training at postgraduate level and at IBERS we offer the potential to progress to MSc and PhD level study in ecology.