Animal conservation Science BSc at Saint Martins College Uk
Newton Rigg campus at Penrith is ideal for the study of conservation—our extensive estates include numerous Sites of Special Scientific Interest and habitats ranging from the high Cumbrian fells to ancient woodlands. Cumbria’s natural habitats support one quarter of all species in the UK biodiversity action plan and 80% of its coastline is classified as being of international wildlife importance. Other conservation degrees may take trips to these sites; we have them on our doorstep! Practical use of these resources in our teaching and the opportunity to study or work abroad make this course at the University of Cumbria hard to beat.
What is this course about?
This degree examines the theory and practice of animal conservation by studying ecology, threats to (and conservation of) biodiversity, animal behaviour, habitat, conservation, genetics and wildlife.
The first year provides background knowledge of the world’s biodiversity and includes animal and plant identification skills. This supports studies of ecology and your understanding of how elements of biodiversity interact with the environment and each other. A practical module introduces ecological methodologies and techniques in the field and laboratory. The principles of conservation science are introduced, and further developed in years two and three.
In year two the biodiversity element is expanded and you learn professional-standard survey techniques used in ecological assessment. You are introduced to studies of animal behaviour, habitat management and genetics, all taught in a conservation context. Research theory and practice is taught during this year, which culminates in a small research project during the fieldwork module, which currently takes place in The Gambia, West Africa. A range of elective modules is offered in year two, with many students opting for work experience in the UK or abroad.
In the third year you undertake a year-long research project of your own choice. In addition, you choose from a range of specialist modules linking the theory and practice of animal conservation science. These include aquatic conservation, behavioural ecology, conservation strategies and current issues.
The external examiner said—
“This programme continues to be exciting and innovative. The team set high standards for their students, which is reflected in their enthusiasm and the quality of work they produce. The students are able to undertake research programmes abroad. This enhances their learning experience.”
What can the course lead to?
Graduates from this course have gone into a range of relevant jobs—conservation officer, senior conservation officer, with UK companies, wildlife officers with wildlife trusts, a conservation specialist in a UK zoo while others work on conservation projects abroad. Some graduates have entered postgraduate education including MSc and PhD studies.
Tags: ancient woodlands, animal conservation, background knowledge, conservation genetics, conservation science, context research, cumbrian fells, ecological assessment, elective modules, gambia west africa, habitat conservation, habitats support, international wildlife, natural habitats, newton rigg campus, research theory, survey techniques, uk biodiversity action plan, work experience in the uk