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Why choose an integrated foundation year?  

This integrated, preparatory course is suitable for applicants with a wide range of backgrounds and qualifications who, for a variety of reasons, may not feel ready to begin study at undergraduate level. This may apply to mature students who have had a break from education and may have vocational experience in addition to academic qualifications. Students who do not have the subject-appropriate A-levels or equivalent qualifications for the undergraduate course may also benefit.

Course structure

Over the course of your degree, you will study core themes in ecology, evolution and diversity, leading to applied elements of ecology such as wildlife conservation.

You will learn through lectures, fieldwork, group work, practical classes and independent study. Assessment involves the use of essays, exams, presentations, practical exercises and communication exercises, which can vary depending on which options you choose.

The course offers a number of field trips to complement your university-based study, including an optional trip to South Africa. Fieldwork is used to contextualise the taught material through real-world activities.

Our expert staff will support your subject-specific knowledge development and teach you the research, technical, practical and transferable skills that you need to maximise your career prospects. 

Foundation year

During your foundation year you’ll be introduced to key concepts in biology, chemistry and data handling to prepare you for study at undergraduate level. You’ll also develop your skills in problem solving, analysis and communication.

Modules

• Foundation Biology
• Data Handling for Science
• Foundation Geography, Earth and Environment
• Foundation Study Skills

Year 1

You will explore the foundations of ecology and conservation, developing skills and knowledge that you'll build upon for the rest of your degree.

Modules

• Fundamentals of Marine and Freshwater Biology

  This module introduces the principles of marine and freshwater biology by examining the evolution  and diversity of aquatic flora and fauna. You'll focus on physical and chemical aspects of aquatic ecosystems, their impact on the populations of organisms that live in the ecosystems, and how organisms adapt to their environments. Practical sessions will cover methods for collecting, handling and analysing scientific data, as well as developing effective science communication skills.

• Essential Skills for Bioscientists

  This module introduces the principles of the scientific method and a variety of study and communication skills that you’ll need during your degree. You’ll develop mathematical and statistical skills and apply them in the context of bioscientific data presentation and interpretation.

• Fundamentals in Genetics and Evolution

  Genetics is fundamental to understanding life sciences. In this module you will gain an understanding of how information is stored and inherited in living organisms. You will consider genetics from the perspectives of DNA structure, gene expression, genome replication, heredity, genes in populations, and evolution. You'll also be introduced to DNA-based laboratory techniques. 

• Introduction to Microorganisms and Plants

  This module looks at the classification of the living world, focusing on the structures and patterns in microorganisms and plants. You'll explore taxonomic groups considering of key features, increased complexity of structure, and their ecological role and importance. You'll develop an integrated approach to the diversity of these organisms, linking evolutionary theory with biology, form and function of organisms.

• Introduction to Ecology and Conservation

  This module will introduce you to key concepts and principles in both ecology and conservation science – illustrated with case studies. The links between ecology and conservation and also between theory and applied research are emphasised

• Terrestrial Ecosystems

  This module will introduce you to major terrestrial natural and semi-natural habitats, covering key ecological and biological processes that structure these systems. You will reflect on the conservation challenges and management strategies used to maintain and restore these habitats. You'll also learn about, and use, field-based techniques during field trips and local site visits.

Year 2 

In your second year you will cover research skills, professional development, physiology of organisms, managing populations in ecology and conservation, marine and freshwater ecosystems and a field trip to Portugal. You can also choose from a range of options including fieldwork in South Africa.

Modules

• Population Biology for Conservation
• GIS and Remote Sensing Principles and Practice
• Research Skills and Professional Development
• Animal Diversity and Adaptations
• Marine and Freshwater Ecology

Options*

• Climate Change
• Sustainable Futures
• Applied Conservation Field Course (UK)
• Environmental Pollution
• Ecology and Conservation International Field Course

*Option modules are indicative and may change, depending on timetabling and staff availability.

Placement year

There are many advantages of spending a placement year working in industry, or research. It can help you to

• apply your learning to real-life situations and challenges
• learn new skills which can help in your career
• explore specialisms to gain better understanding of what you want to do
• gain vital work experience and build your network of professional contacts
• come back for your final year more focused, more organised and more confident.

Our students have been on placement with organisations including the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew, Paignton Zoo, the Sea Life Centre and the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation.

Final year

You will study species interactions, ecological impact assessment, hot topics in ecology and conservation, and undertake an ecology research project. Option modules enable you to choose the subjects that interest you most, and you may also have the opportunity of fieldwork in Brazil.

Modules

• Ecology Project
• Ecological Impact Assessment
• Species Interactions
• Hot Topics in Ecology and Conservation

Options*

• The Humans of Ice Age Britain
• Advanced GIS and Remote Sensing
• Biology Independent Study
• Political Ecology: Contested Environments
• Current Topics in Aquatic Environments

*Option modules are indicative and may change, depending on timetabling and staff availability.

Course fees

Fee information for this course for 2025 entry will be updated here no later than December 2024.

The fees listed here are for the first year of full-time study if you start your course in the academic year 2024–25.

You will pay fees for each year of your course. Some fees may increase each year.

UK undergraduate and some postgraduate fees are regulated by the UK government and increases will not be more than the maximum amount allowed. Course fees that are not regulated may increase each year by up to 5% or RPI (whichever is higher).

If you are studying part-time your fee will usually be calculated based on the number of modules that you take.

Find out more

• 91¿ì»îÁÖ Boost – cost of living help for our new undergrad students. Find out about how we can help with your study, accommodation or travel costs and more...
• Fees, bursaries, scholarships and government funding info for UK and international undergraduate students
• Student finance and budgeting while studying
• Read our student contract and (pdf) for more on University of 91¿ì»îÁÖ tuition fees.

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