Explore your future

 

Ecology matters more than ever and is not just about understanding nature – it’s about securing a future for the natural world and humanity. As climate change accelerates and biodiversity loss reaches critical levels, ecological expertise is vital for restoring ecosystems, ensuring food security, and building resilient societies.

Ecology graduates are at the forefront of solving global challenges within land use, conservation and sustainable development. With an increasing demand for ecological knowledge in wider industries like renewable energy, agriculture and policy‑making, a degree in ecology is more than a path to a rewarding career – it’s a chance to shape a more liveable future.

We have run specialist Wildlife Ecology and Conservation courses since 1973, with an enviable reputation for our work. The department has close working links with many of the major wildlife and conservation organisations and is recognised as a leading land‑based institution in this field.

Students benefit from our own 183‑hectare estate that provides a managed rural environment. This includes an ancient semi‑natural woodland designated as a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation, a lake with reed‑bed, a woodland shelterbelt with newly established woodland, recreated chalk grassland and a Game and Wildlife Centre that gives students practical industry skills alongside academic knowledge.