Are you interested in exploring how we can conserve species, habitats, landscapes, and ecosystems Discover the science behind society’s ecological and conservation challenges, and hone your practical skills through fieldwork, laboratory activities, and work placement opportunities on our Ecology and Conservation BSc. You'll graduate equipped with the expertise needed for roles such as ecological consultant, nature conservation officer, or conservation research scientist, positioning you to make a meaningful impact in the field of ecology and conservation.Do you have a passion for science and a drive to tackle some of the world’s most urgent ecological and conservation challenges Our Ecology and Conservation degree provides you with the expertise to understand these complex issues and explore innovative solutions.You will build a solid foundation in ecology and conservation in your first year, preparing you for advanced study in years two and three.Key topics covered on the programme include conservation policy, sustainability, the crisis in biodiversity, human impact on the environment and how animals adapt to changing environmental conditions. You’ll develop crucial research skills, enhance your data handling, analysis and statistical abilities, and gain confidence applying new technologies and using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in an ecology and conservation context.Employability is embedded into our curriculum, with a strong emphasis on developing practical skills, equipping you with up-to-date methods and techniques needed for future employment. You’ll gain hands-on experience using equipment, samples and digital resources in our state-of-the-art Central Science Laboratories and master a range of fieldwork skills through various residential and one day field courses in diverse ecosystems.In your final year, you’ll have the opportunity to earn a Field Identification Skills Certificate (FISC), highly regarded by employers. Keele is a leader in sustainability education and our campus acts as a ‘living laboratory’ with 600 acres of natural environments for fieldwork. From our lake system and extensive woodlands to the mining and industrial heritage of the local area, we offer opportunities to study in an authentic environment while practicing sustainability, preparing you to thrive in your future career.A degree in ecology and conservation will provide you with broad knowledge about current environmental issues and challenges on a local, national and global scale. You will graduate with transferable and subject specific skills including field and laboratory skills, data collection and analysis, Geographic Information Systems, critical thinking, team working and project management.Job sectors that a graduate of this programme could go on to include:CommunicationmediaConservationEnvironmental charitiesEnvironmental consultancyEnvironmental healthRegional or national governmentTeachingJobs that a graduate of this programme could go on to include:Ecological or Environmental ConsultantEnvironmental Education OfficerNature Conservation OfficerRecycling OfficerSustainability ConsultantTeacherTown PlannerWaste Management OfficerEcology or Conservation Research ScientistWildlife RangerWildlife Monitoring OfficerFoundation yearStudying a Foundation Year, for whatever reason, offers an alternative route to Keele, and provides a unique opportunity to better prepare for your chosen degree. That extra year of study can improve your academic skills, expand your subject knowledge and, perhaps most importantly, build your confidence.Duration of study3 years or 4 years with international or placement year