Ecology

Ecology teaching is underpinned by our research in both theoretical and applied ecology in many different environments, natural and managed, from the Tropics to the Arctic, and from estuaries to mountain tops.

Why Aberdeen?

• A recent internal teaching review panel commended the School of Biological Sciences for its committed, professional and enthusiastic teaching. The panel was also impressed with the course choice within degrees and by the emphasis on field courses and field-based teaching, including opportunities and support for expeditions
• Teaching is underpinned by our research in both theoretical and applied ecology in many different environments, natural and managed, from the Tropics to the Arctic, and from estuaries to mountain tops
• Students benefit from participating in field work in many diverse environments, and particularly in the vicinities of our field stations, on the Ythan Estuary, on the Black Isle, and at Bettyhill, on the North coast of Sutherland
• Students also benefit from contact with practising ecologists from a number of ecological and conservation organisations based in and around Aberdeen

Programmes

Study Abroad

There will be opportunities for expeditions, voluntary work overseas and ‘year-out’ placements. International exchanges are also possible, normally in the second year of a four year programme. Similarly, it is possible to study for part of the degree in another European university under the ERASMUS programme.
Further Study Abroad Information. 

The opportunity to take Enhanced Study options as part of your degree and participate in co-curricular activities. See www.abdn.ac.uk/thedifference for more information.

The Ecology degree combines a broad based training in Biology in first year, progressing to an increasingly specialised training in Ecology in the following years, with options to take  enhanced study courses which provide the opportunity to study other disciplines and to take interdisciplinary courses. 

First Year

All Ecologists take eight courses normally including Ecology and Environmental Science, Organismal Biology, Cell and Molecular Biology, and and a tutorial course in Biological Sciences. This leaves a choice of four further courses which contribute to enhanced study; options include subjects such as Chemistry, Land Management, Geography and new interdisciplinary courses. Students take a one-week field course on Plant Ecology at Bettyhill, Sutherland.

Second Year

Core courses in second year cover Community Ecology, Animal and Plant Diversity and Function, and Scientific Skills for biologists. Additional optional courses include Conservation Biology, Ocean Biology, Genes and Evolution, Microbiology and a wide range of interdisciplinary courses. Students take an Animal Ecology field trip in Yorkshire or on the North-east Scottish coast.

Third Year (Junior Honours)

Third year courses are in Animal Population Ecology; Plant Ecology; Ecosystem Processes and in Core Skills for Biologists. Students can also choose from Plant Biogeography and Conservation; Animal Evolution and Biodiversity; Animal Behaviour; Plant/Animal Interactions; Plant/Environment Interactions; Aquatic Biology and Conservation; Tropical Ecology; Tropical Conservation; Marine Ecology and Ecosystems and Environmental Analysis. Students have the opportunity to go on an overseas ecology field trip during the summer before or after their third year.

Fourth Year (Senior Honours)

Students carry out independent research project in Ecology, often in collaboration with an external organisation or as part of an overseas expedition and undertake an extended essay on a subject of their choice. Alongside these we provide core scientific skills training including a team building course and careers workshops. There is then a choice of advanced courses in Behavioural Ecology; Wildlife Management; Nature Conservation; Conservation and Global Change; Ecological & Environmental Modelling; Marine Ecology; Tropical Forest Management; Molecular Ecology and Bioethics.

Teaching and Assessment

Teaching includes lectures, laboratory practicals, fieldwork, seminars, and tutorials. Most courses are assessed by both continuous assessment and a written examination. Continuous assessment takes many forms including essays, practical reports and group projects. Throughout all years students improve their transferable skills, for example through presentations and group activities.

Careers

Ecologists are employed in a wide range of interesting jobs by government and non-government nature conservation organisations, local government, environmental protection agencies, environmental consultancies and research agencies. There are also opportunities in environmental education in field centres and schools, and in the communications sector.

Finding your direction

There are many opportunities at the University of Aberdeen to develop your knowledge, gain experience and build a competitive set of skills to enhance your employability. This is essential for your future career success.  The Careers Service can help you to plan your career and support your choices throughout your time with us – from first to final year – and beyond.

• More information on employability at the University of Aberdeen.
• More information on the Careers Service.
• More information on careers prospects and employability with a degree in Ecology.

Entrance Requirements

SQA Highers - BBBB*
A Levels - BBB*
IB - 30 points, 5 at HL
ILC - BBBB (B2 or above)
*including good performance in at least two Mathematics/Science subjects.

Advanced Entry - Advanced Highers ABB or A Levels ABB or IB 34 points (6 at HL), including Biology and Chemistry, one of which must be at A-grade.

For further details of entrance requirements click here

Please click on the links below to find out more information on funding in your area.

• Scotland and EU (Excluding England, Wales and Northern Ireland)
• Rest of UK (England, Wales and Northern Ireland)
• International
• Scholarships

Related Links

• Scholarships
• Entrance Scholarships
• Funding Database
• England Wales and Northern Ireland Finance Guide