Conservation Biology and Geography

Conservation Biology and Geography is a combination that addresses the interlocking crises of biodiversity loss and environmental change from two complementary disciplinary perspectives. Conservation biology is concerned with the protection and management of species, habitats and ecosystems, drawing on ecology, evolutionary biology, genetics and environmental science to understand why biodiversity is declining and what can be done to reverse those trends. Geography brings a spatial and human dimension to that scientific work, examining how land use, economic systems, governance structures and human communities shape the environments that wildlife depends on.

Studied together, the two disciplines equip you to understand environmental problems at multiple scales and to contribute to their solution.

At Liverpool Hope University this four-year full-time degree includes a foundation year, giving you time to build the scientific and geographical foundations you need before entering the main programme. You will examine the human and environmental factors affecting all living organisms, from the ecology of individual species to the dynamics of whole ecosystems, while also developing geographical tools for analysing land use, climate, spatial data and the social contexts in which conservation takes place. The programme includes a sandwich year, a year abroad and a work placement, giving you substantial field experience and professional exposure in conservation and environmental contexts.

Graduates from Conservation Biology and Geography degrees go on to careers in conservation organisations, environmental consultancy, national parks, wildlife trusts, government environmental agencies and international development bodies. Others find roles in environmental education, sustainability management, ecological surveying and land management. The scientific rigour and geographical breadth the degree develops are valued in a growing number of sectors as climate and biodiversity concerns move up the agenda.

Postgraduate study in conservation biology, ecology, environmental management or geography is a common route for those wishing to deepen their expertise.