Ecology and Conservation

Ecology and conservation is a discipline that addresses one of the defining challenges of our time: the global crisis of biodiversity loss. It applies the scientific methods of ecology, including the study of how organisms interact with each other and their environments, to the practical challenge of protecting and restoring natural systems that are under mounting pressure from habitat destruction, climate change, invasive species, and overexploitation. Understanding ecology rigorously is a prerequisite for conservation that is evidence-based and effective.

At Brighton, the MSci in Ecology and Conservation equips you with advanced knowledge and research skills to address global biodiversity challenges and drive sustainable solutions. This four-year full-time programme builds towards a Master of Science qualification, combining undergraduate scientific training with a final year of advanced research-level study that develops your capacity to contribute independently to the field. The programme includes a sandwich placement year and embedded work placement opportunities, giving you substantial practical experience alongside your academic training.

The typical entry tariff is 88 points.

Graduates of ecology and conservation programmes pursue careers in conservation organisations and national parks, environmental consultancies, government environmental agencies, wildlife trusts, ecological surveying, and academic research. The MSci qualification provides a particularly strong foundation for postgraduate research degrees in ecology, conservation biology, or environmental science, and for senior technical roles in conservation organisations that require advanced scientific competency. Many graduates also move into environmental policy, land management, and international conservation work, where the combination of ecological training and research experience is highly valued.