Course description
Content
Year 1
All modules are core and provide a foundation for the later stages of the course. Modules are entitled: Living World, The Earth, Field Course, Microbiology 1, Cell Biology, Genetics, Scientific Inquiry. They focus on the study of the living world and earth systems, underpinned by data analysis and interpretation, which are essential to the study of Conservation Biology. A residential Field Course offers the opportunity to investigate a range of natural and semi-natural habitats, as well as introducing students to some of the practical skills required to study Conservation Biology in the field.
Year 2
You study in depth the relationships between animals, plants, and their environment. The ecological theory explored in Year 1 is now applied to real world problems, and a dedicated module in Conservation Biology investigates in detail why some species risk extinction, and what steps can be taken to preserve and conserve those organisms most at risk. You study compulsory modules in Environmental Skills, Applied Ecology and Conservation Biology.
You may choose two further modules from: Animals and Ecosystems, Microbiology 2, Plant Growth and Survival or may opt to study a modern language or Presenting Science.
Placements
The optional sandwich year involves a period of at least 40 weeks practical training and employment in a suitable working environment in the UK or overseas. This experience is invaluable when you apply for jobs after graduation. Students in the School have previously worked in industry, government organisations, consultancies and conservation groups. For example the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds(RSPB), Plymouth Marine Laboratory (PML)and the Environment Agency. There are also good opportunities for sandwich placements overseas.
You may choose to undertake a non-credited sandwich placement, or may opt to take the Professional Practice in Applied Sciences module (placement module) which on successful completion, constitutes 20 credits at Level 3. Both options entitle students to graduate as sandwich students.
Final Year
In this year, the Conservation Biology theme is further developed through modules in Applied Conservation Biology, which takes a case-study approach to the analysis of contemporary conservation issues.
