Ecology, BSc

Ecology, BSc

Introduction

Interested in wildlife and natural ecosystems, the relationship between the natural world and people, the impacts of climate change and other environmental problems?

Study Information

At a Glance

Learning Mode
On Campus Learning
Degree Qualification
BSc
Duration
48 months
Study Mode
Full Time
Start Month
September
Location of Study
Aberdeen
UCAS Code
D430
Pathway Programme Available
Undergraduate Foundation Programme

If you answered yes to the above question, an Ecology degree at Aberdeen will enable you to explore the science of all these topics, taught by experts who are actively involved in ecological research and its applications to environmental management and nature conservation. It will also provide you with opportunities to gain practical field experience in Scotland and abroad, on field trips, expeditions and through doing your own research project.

Our graduates have proven that an Aberdeen Ecology degree gives students a great start for careers in which they can make a difference to the world, working in wildlife research, nature conservation, environmental protection, environmental education and science communication.

What You'll Study

Each year you take a selection of compulsory courses and optional courses that can be chosen from those on offer across the Institute. The first two years lay a foundation for the more specialised third and fourth years.

Year 1

You will take eight courses in year 1. You also choose four courses from across the university, e.g. Cell Biology, Chemistry, Geography, interdisciplinary Sixth Century courses, or a language.

Compulsory Courses

Getting Started at the University of Aberdeen (PD1002)

This course, which is prescribed for level 1 undergraduate students (and articulating students who are in their first year at the University), is studied entirely online, takes approximately 5-6 hours to complete and can be taken in one sitting, or spread across a number of weeks.

Topics include orientation overview, equality and diversity, health, safety and cyber security and how to make the most of your time at university in relation to careers and employability.

Successful completion of this course will be recorded on your Enhanced Transcript as ‘Achieved’.

Frontiers in Biological Sciences (BI1009)

15 Credit Points

Five themes, critical to understanding biology and life, will be explored – Developmental Biology, Microbiology and Disease, Evolution and Behaviour, Immune Systems and Environmental Physiology. Each theme is structured to provide you with core knowledge, insight into how science is practiced, an introduction to current research topics and skills that are useful for investigating, recording and analysing information. The course will be delivered using a blended learning approach and can be taken by students who will be on campus in first semester, or those who may choose to stay at home

Diversity of Life 1 (BI1012)

15 Credit Points

A walk through the evolutionary tree of life, examining the amazing diversity of major groups of organisms from plants through fungi to early invertebrates. Learn about how each group of organisms arose, their characteristics, and how they achieved success. Practical activities provide hands on experience of materials demonstrating the diversity of plants and invertebrates.

Ecology and Environmental Science (BI1511)

15 Credit Points

This course begins with study of the physical workings of the Earth and the interactions between living organisms and their environments. We then look at the effects humans are having on the planet, potential solutions to global problems and thoughts on the future.

Teaching is by staff with different subject specialisms who give both variety and immediacy to course material.

Exposure to the problems we are facing both now and in the future will help you make informed choices in your everyday life.

A range of ‘wet’ and computer-based practicals enhance the classroom teaching and develop generic scientific skills.

Diversity of Life 2 (BI1512)

15 Credit Points

  • A walk through the evolutionary tree of life, examining the amazing diversity of advanced invertebrates and vertebrates.
  • Learn about how each group of organisms arose, their characteristics, and how they achieved success. For example what are the key evolutionary steps enabling life away from the water? How do birds fly?
  • Practical activities provide hands on experience of materials demonstrating the features of invertebrates, amphibians, fish, birds and mammals.
The Cell (SM1501)

15 Credit Points

• Cells are the fundamental unit of life – without them life could not exist, and as such understanding how they function is crucial to our understanding of biology and medical science.• This course provides theoretical knowledge in a diverse range of topics covering the fascinating world of cells, from molecules like DNA, to how different cell types function within our bodies.• All practical classes are research based and will provide theoretical knowledge and skills training in many areas of molecular and cell biology.• Employability skills will also be explored through a highly interactive enterprise session and our online mini course.

Optional Courses

Plus select 30 credit points from first-half session courses of choice, and 15 credit points from second half-session courses of choice.

Year 2

Core courses in year 2 include Biological Enhanced Skills Training, Ecology and Topics in Plant and Soil Biology. You choose five further courses; options available include Genes and Evolution, Ocean Biology, Conservation Biology, Animal Physiology, Sixth Century Courses and other courses across the university. You will also take a field trip, choosing between animal ecology in Yorkshire, the North-East Scottish coast or Mediterranean ecosystems in Spain.

Compulsory Courses

Introduction to Genetics (BI2023)

15 Credit Points

Genetics and evolution are inextricably linked and provide the foundation for all other biological concepts. In this course we introduce the subject of genetics from an evolutionary perspective that is informed by genome analysis.A series of lectures and computer workshops will introduce you to the fundamental principles of evolution, genetics and molecular biology. In practical classes you will have opportunity to practise modern molecular techniques.You will also explore ethical dilemmas that arise as a consequence of our potential ability to manipulate genomes.

Biological Enhanced Skills Training (BEST) (BI2018)

15 Credit Points

The course will help you develop or consolidate skills in experimental design, sampling, analysis, presentation, and interpretation of data.

Each week, there are one 1-2 recorded introductory lectures to help you prepare for the computer practicals. In two 2-hour sessions per week you will work through a series of computer-based data tasks, using relevant and realistic biological and environmental themes. The course will introduce you to different types of software which can be used to analyse data, including Excel, Minitab, and R studio.Teaching is informal and friendly. During sessions, staff will chat to you about your progress and provide help where necessary.

Ecology (BI2020)

15 Credit Points

This course builds on themes from introductory ecology courses: effects of biodiversity, disturbance in natural communities, nutrient and energy cycles. herbivory, predation, competition, population dynamics, parasitism, mutualisms and foodwebs. You will develop your abilities to interpret data by applying theory discussed in classes to real-life data sets using short problem-solving exercises linked to each topic. Feedback will help you improve writing and interpretation skills. Extended problem-solving exercises will improve your communication skills, scientific writing and introduce you to valuable approaches to summarising complex datasets in Excel. You will also consider issues around experimental design.

Plants, People, and the Environment (BI25P4)

15 Credit Points

A course in which students explore both core and emerging issues in the plant sciences, focusing in particular on the inter-dependence of plants, people and environment.  Students are encouraged to develop a range of important generic and applied skills, through lectures, practicals and seminars. One practical and two seminars contribute 60% of the course mark. An online assessment contributes 40% of the overall course grade and consists of short, structured questions.

Optional Courses

Select one of the field courses listed below, plus a further 45 credit points from courses of choice.

Freshwater and Terrestrial Ecology Field Course (BI25F1)

15 Credit Points

This is a residential field course designed to provide you with training in field identification knowledge and ecological sampling techniques. The course is held at the Kelvinside Academy John Duff Lodge, Corgarff, Strathdon, Scotland. Group based project work encourages development of skills in team working, data collection, analysis and presentation.

Dates for 2023-2024 are Friday 10th to Thursday 16th May 2024.

Coastal Biodiversity (BI25F2)

15 Credit Points

This is a residential field course that uses the University of Aberdeen Lighthouse Field Station up in Cromarty to introduce a range of terrestrial, coastal and marine habitats, and the techniques that are being used to study and manage the diverse species in these ecosystems.

The field course provides an insight into how scientific research and long-term monitoring underpins our understanding and management of biodiversity, and the different organisations responsible for stewardship and conservation across the UK. The course explores how natural and anthropogenic environmental change can influence different coastal ecosystems, and the challenges of managing those ecosystems where there are a range of practitioners, stake-holders and end-users with different and potential conflicting priorities.

Importantly, the course provides “real world” experience of ecological fieldwork, with a focus on how to design, plan and safely execute monitoring programmes for a range of different species and habitats.

Dates for 2023/2024 are 12/05/2024 to 17/05/2024

Parasitology (BI25F3)

15 Credit Points

Residential field course designed to introduce you to the main groups of parasitic invertebrates and protozoa in our indigenous wildlife and provide you with training in field identification and sampling techniques.

Field work provides opportunities to observe, identify and collect host and intermediate host species, and training in field identification and sampling techniques.

Lab work provides for the morphological and molecular identification of parasites, and experiments on parasite physiology and manipulation of host behaviour.

Group based project work provides skills in team working, data collection, analysis and presentation.

We aim to pack as much experience into this course as we can in 6 days, so we work long and quite intensive days to allow you to develop deep understanding of parasitology, but there is always time at the end of the day to unwind with peers and staff in the excellent social facilities and to enjoy the unique environment of the Isle of Cumbrae.

Dates for 2023/24 are 24th May 2024 to 31st May 2024.

Field Biology (BI25F6)

15 Credit Points

During day trips from Aberdeen, you will learn and practice a variety of techniques for sampling and identifying organisms in the field.

We will take opportunities to interact with scientists from NGOs and research institutes, who will give instruction on techniques and provide overviews on the remits and opportunities within their organisations.

Group based project work provides skills in team working, data collection, analysis and presentation.

You will develop skills in biological recording by maintaining a detailed record of the field activities in a field notebook.

By visiting and working in a variety of environments you will become familiar with common species, the ecological characteristics of local habitats and have opportunities to apply your classroom learning to the field.

Dates for 2023/2024 are 20th May 2024 to 26th May 2024

Marine Field Ecology (BI25F9)

15 Credit Points

This is a marine biological field course to the Millport Field Centre on the Isle of Cumbrae in the Firth of Clyde. The course introduces you to littoral and nearshore marine life in its natural environment and provides training in methods for sampling, surveying and species identification. You are encouraged to understand the taxonomy and adaptations of marine organisms in an ecological context.

The course typically includes surveying one or more rocky shores and a scientifically renowned sandy shore, sampling plankton and seabed organisms from a small research vessel, and carrying out a group project over two days. Through the various field and laboratory activities and close interaction with course staff, you will deepen your knowledge of marine organisms and their environments, acquire field skills and enhance your abilities in species identification, data collection, analysis, presentation and teamwork.

Dates for 2023–24

24–31 May 2024 (Friday to Friday)

Please note that you will be responsible for arranging and paying for your return journey to the ferry terminal in Largs, North Ayrshire, where the class will assemble prior to taking the ferry onto the Isle of Cumbrae. There are good transport links to Largs by road and rail. Detailed guidance on travel options will be provided in advance of the course.

Year 3

There are four core courses in year 3; Statistical Analysis of Biological Data, Ecosystem Processes, Animal Population Ecology and Advanced Community Ecology. You also choose four from a range of courses including Animal Evolution and Biodiversity, Animal Behaviour, Conservation in Practice, Life History Evolution, Environmental Physiology and Sustainable Resource Management. You may take a field course in Field Ecology Skills, Mediterranean ecosystems or Conservation Issues in Scotland.

Compulsory Courses

Statistical Analysis of Biological Data (BI3010)

15 Credit Points

You will utilise a robust approach to statistical analysis, a skill highly valued by employers and researchers.Lectures provide context, background and step-by step guidance on how to conduct and interpret a selection of statistical analyses.Through a series of exercises, you learn to explore data, to specify appropriate linear models for your research question and to interpret their results.Online tests structured around the exercises and lecture content allow you to demonstrate your achievement of course learning outcomes.Working with biological and environmental datasets in a structured and supportive environment, you will gain confidence and proficiency with data analysis.

Population Ecology (EK3303)

15 Credit Points

This course aims to primarily introduce the basic ecological theory and mathematical modelling approaches required to study the dynamics of animal populations, especially those populations which are managed for conservation or sustainable exploitation.

Gateway to Honours Project (BI3511)

This non-credit bearing course will facilitate your preparation for your Honours project.

Lectures and workshops will clarify expectations for project work and provide training in risk assessment, consideration of ethical issues, environmental impacts and project planning.

Resources to help you define and plan your project will be made available through MyAberdeen, helping you to be confident that your project planning is sufficiently advanced by the end of your Programme Year 3.

Submission of an agreed (with your supervisor) project outline, completed checklists and preliminary risk assessment will allow you to demonstrate engagement with your project.

Field Ecology Skills (EK35F1)

15 Credit Points

The field course is non-residential and involves day trips from Aberdeen to local sites. You will learn about and practice a range of methodologies, approaches and techniques used by ecological consultants and people working for conservation organisations to determine the presence/absence of various animal species, estimates of population size and mapping vegetation. Techniques will include; Habitat Survey (plants; Phase 1 / UKHab), creating a habitat map using GIS, bird identification and census techniques, freshwater invertebrate sampling, surveys of mammal populations (e.g. bats, badgers, otters, red squirrels) and camera trapping.

Dates for 2023/2024 are 13/05/2024 to 24/05/2024

Optional Courses

Select one of the following courses listed below:

Plus further 60 credit points from courses of choice, at least 30 of which must be from courses delivered by the School of Biological Sciences (ie BI, EV, EK FY, PL, ZO).

Marine Ecology and Ecosystems (ZO3306)

15 Credit Points

  • This course explores how marine organisms interact with each other and their environment to form functioning ecosystems.
  • Consideration of biological production in the sea will show how marine ecosystems are fuelled.
  • The structure and function of marine food webs will be explored to give an appreciation of important differences from terrestrial food webs and how they respond to natural and anthropogenic influences.
  • Practical sessions will develop your skills in collecting, analysing and interpreting marine ecological data.
  • An introduction to the ‘ecosystem-based approach’ will show how understanding of marine ecosystem functioning can be applied to managing human activities in the sea.
Ecosystem Processes (PL3304)

15 Credit Points

Terrestrial ecosystems play a pivotal role in modulating the fluxes of energy and matter at the Earth’s surface, including the cycling of carbon, nutrients and greenhouse gases. Understanding the structure and function of terrestrial ecosystems is critical for understanding environmental challenges such as global warming, biodiversity loss, sustainable development and pollution. This course develops principles of systems ecology and biogeochemistry, focusing on the fundamental role played by living things in regulating key ecosystem processes such as carbon cycling, nutrient dynamics, trophic transfers, and land-atmosphere exchange of greenhouse gases.

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Year 4

In your Honours year you will carry out a research project and write an extended essay, each on a topic that you select to match your interests from a wide range offered. We encourage students to undertake their project in collaboration with an external ecological/conservation organisation and to undertake fieldwork during the summer. You will also choose four advanced courses from a wide range available and can opt to take any field trip that you have not taken before if places are available.

Compulsory Courses

SBS Honours Project (BI4016)

45 Credit Points

This independent research project develops your skills in scientific inquiry and critical analysis, as well as important generic skills, including presentation and time management.

Projects are field-, lab- and/or desk-based, developed on a topic of your interest under the direction of a supervisor.

Training in skills needed to perform your project is provided by world-leading researchers and their teams.

Workshops and drop-in sessions provide training in data analysis and thesis production.

This skill set will be appropriate for advanced study in the field of biological science or other careers where the generic skills that you will develop are highly valued.

Optional Courses

Select a further 75 credit points from courses of choice, at least 45 of which must be from courses delivered by the School of Biological Sciences (i.e. BI, EK, EV, PL, or ZO courses) at level 4.

NOTE: A graduating curriculum for the Honours programme must include 90 credit points from Level 4 courses.

We will endeavour to make all course options available; however, these may be subject to timetabling and other constraints. Please see our InfoHub pages for further information.

How You'll Study

Combine practice and theory

Typically, one third of your class time is practical and many courses include full-day practical classes and field visits. Most students take at least one residential field trip during their degree; these trips bring the subjects to life and provide the opportunity to make great friendships and get to know staff members.

Research experience

You are actively involved in scientific research throughout your degree. In Year 4, you conduct independent research which can be pivotal to your career choice, whether it be in dolphins, water voles, rare plants, tropical forest ecology, climate change in the Arctic, or any one of a diverse range of other exciting topics.

Engaging and inspiring teaching

Our teaching methods are diverse, innovative and based on research on how students learn. For example, we use problem-based learning approaches, creative presentations, peer and self-assessment, presenting posters in public meetings, writing and editing wikis, writing grant proposals, science writing for publication, and the creation of portfolios using multi-media.

Opportunities for Study Abroad and work-related learning

You can take advantage of an optional year-out on a work placement and study abroad is encouraged for students in their 2nd year. We invite employers and volunteering organisations to come and meet our students at our career evenings and there are opportunities for students to work with our partner institutions within and outside of Aberdeen.

Learning Methods

  • Field Work
  • Group Projects
  • Lab Work
  • Lectures
  • Research
  • Tutorials

Assessment Methods

Students are assessed by any combination of three assessment methods:

  • coursework such as essays and reports completed throughout the course;
  • practical assessments of the skills and competencies learnt on the course; and
  • written examinations at the end of each course.

The exact mix of these methods differs between subject areas, year of study and individual courses.

Honours projects are typically assessed on the basis of a written dissertation.

Why Study Ecology?

  • This degree combines the biology and ecology of plants, animals and ecosystems, with the opportunity to include our particular specialisms in marine biology and conservation biology in your curriculum.
  • The University of Aberdeen has long been renowned for teaching and research in Ecology and is home to one of the largest and most vibrant groups of staff in this subject area in the UK.
  • The degree is taught by a wide range of staff who are active in field ecological research from the tropics to the Arctic, and from the deep sea to the mountain tops; our teaching reflects our research and is always up to date and relevant.
  • Students have the opportunity to get involved in our research through summer research assistantships and project work.
  • Ecology students attend at least two residential field courses selected from our range of courses in the Cairngorms, Shetland, Yorkshire and Spain.
  • Students benefit from contact with practising ecologists from a number of research and conservation organisations based in and around Aberdeen

What Our Students Say

Heather George

Heather George

Heather George

Ecology has covered many riveting aspects of environmental biology whilst stimulating a thought-provoking insight into current controversies. Ecology has been taught with enthusiasm and members of staff have been helpful and supportive.

Entry Requirements

Qualifications

The information below is provided as a guide only and does not guarantee entry to the University of Aberdeen.


General Entry Requirements

2024 Entry

SQA Highers

Standard: AABB*

Applicants who have achieved AABB (or better), are encouraged to apply and will be considered. Good performance in additional Highers/ Advanced Highers may be required.

Minimum: BBB*

Applicants who have achieved BBB (or are on course to achieve this by the end of S5) are encouraged to apply and will be considered. Good performance in additional Highers/Advanced Highers will normally be required.

Adjusted: BB*

Applicants who have achieved BB, and who meet one of the widening access criteria are are guaranteed a conditional offer. Good performance in additional Highers/Advanced Highers will be required.

* Including good performance in at least two Mathematics/ Science subjects by the end of your senior phase of education.

More information on our definition of Standard, Minimum and Adjusted entry qualifications.

A LEVELS

Standard: BBB*

Minimum: BBC*

Adjusted: CCC*

* Including good performance in at least two Mathematics/ Science subjects by the end of your senior phase of education.

More information on our definition of Standard, Minimum and Adjusted entry qualifications.

International Baccalaureate

32 points, including 5, 5, 5 at HL, with two Mathematics/ Science subjects at HL.

Irish Leaving Certificate

5H with 3 at H2 AND 2 at H3 including a minimum of H3 from two Science or Mathematics subjects.

Entry from College

Advanced entry to this degree may be possible from some HNC/HND qualifications, please see www.abdn.ac.uk/study/articulation for more details.

2025 Entry

SQA Highers

Standard: BBBB*

Applicants who have achieved BBBB (or better), are encouraged to apply and will be considered. Good performance in additional Highers/ Advanced Highers may be required.

Minimum: BBB*

Applicants who have achieved BBB (or are on course to achieve this by the end of S5) are encouraged to apply and will be considered. Good performance in additional Highers/Advanced Highers will normally be required.

Adjusted: BB*

Applicants who have achieved BB, and who meet one of the widening access criteria are are guaranteed a conditional offer. Good performance in additional Highers/Advanced Highers will be required.

Foundation Apprenticeship: One FA is equivalent to a Higher at A. It cannot replace any required subjects.

* Including good performance in at least two Mathematics/ Science subjects by the end of your senior phase of education.

More information on our definition of Standard, Minimum and Adjusted entry qualifications.

A LEVELS

Standard: BBC*

Minimum: BCC*

Adjusted: CCC*

* Including good performance in at least two Mathematics/ Science subjects by the end of your senior phase of education.

More information on our definition of Standard, Minimum and Adjusted entry qualifications.

International Baccalaureate

32 points, including 5, 5, 5 at HL, with two Mathematics/ Science subjects at HL.

Irish Leaving Certificate

5H with 3 at H2 AND 2 at H3 including a minimum of H3 from two Science or Mathematics subjects.

Entry from College

Advanced entry to this degree may be possible from some HNC/HND qualifications, please see www.abdn.ac.uk/study/articulation for more details.

The information displayed in this section shows a shortened summary of our entry requirements. For more information, or for full entry requirements for Sciences degrees, see our detailed entry requirements section.


English Language Requirements

To study for an Undergraduate degree at the University of Aberdeen it is essential that you can speak, understand, read, and write English fluently. The minimum requirements for this degree are as follows:

IELTS Academic:

OVERALL - 6.0 with: Listening - 5.5; Reading - 5.5; Speaking - 5.5; Writing - 6.0

TOEFL iBT:

OVERALL - 78 with: Listening - 17; Reading - 18; Speaking - 20; Writing - 21

PTE Academic:

OVERALL - 59 with: Listening - 59; Reading - 59; Speaking - 59; Writing - 59

Cambridge English B2 First, C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency:

OVERALL - 169 with: Listening - 162; Reading - 162; Speaking - 162; Writing - 169

Read more about specific English Language requirements here.

International Applicants who do not meet the Entry Requirements

The University of Aberdeen International Study Centre offers preparation programmes for international students who do not meet the direct entry requirements for undergraduate study. Discover your foundation pathway here.

Fees and Funding

You will be classified as one of the fee categories below.

Fee information
Fee category Cost
RUK £9,250
Tuition Fees for 2024/25 Academic Year
EU / International students £24,800
Tuition Fees for 2024/25 Academic Year
Home Students £1,820
Tuition Fees for 2024/25 Academic Year

Scholarships and Funding

Students from England, Wales and Northern Ireland, who pay tuition fees may be eligible for specific scholarships allowing them to receive additional funding. These are designed to provide assistance to help students support themselves during their time at Aberdeen.

Additional Fees

  • In exceptional circumstances there may be additional fees associated with specialist courses, for example field trips. Any additional fees for a course can be found in our Catalogue of Courses.
  • For more information about tuition fees for this programme, including payment plans and our refund policy, please visit our InfoHub Tuition Fees page.

Our Funding Database

View all funding options in our Funding Database.

Careers

We are committed to the career progression of our students and we collaborate with the University’s Careers and Employability Service to ensure that you have numerous opportunities to explore career options, develop your employability and connect with employers.

  • The expertise and support of a dedicated careers professional who is a specialist in the types of careers and further study undertaken by Biological Science students.
  • A mentoring scheme run by the Careers and Employability Service linking current students with professional mentors.
  • An annual volunteering fair to connect students with appropriate organisations in conservation and the environment.
  • The exploration of possible careers and the development of employability from week 1, via the mandatory “Frontiers of Science” and PD1002 careers course.
  • One to one appointments to discuss students’ options, provide practical support around internships, placements and part time work and provide support for effective applications and interviews.
  • Regular opportunities through the “speed careering” programme for current students to meet and learn from Biological Sciences graduates.
  • Employer input to the design of the curriculum and in talks to students about career opportunities.
  • A university-wide co-curriculum programme aimed at developing key employability skills sought by employers.

For more information visit www.abdn.ac.uk/careers or email careers@abdn.ac.uk.

Our Ecology degree provides you with academic training and transferable skills relevant to both specialist employment in ecology and the wider biology graduate job market. Our graduates have gone on to develop specialist careers in ecological research, nature conservation, local government, environmental protection, forestry, ecological consultancy, environmental law, outdoor education and the media. Very helpful information on careers in ecology is available in the booklet ‘Rooting for a Career in Ecology and Environmental Management?’

Career Opportunities

  • Ecologist
  • Ecology Researcher
  • Environmental Lawyer
  • Environmental Protection Officer
  • Graduate Ecologist
  • Nature Conservationist

Industry Links

We have strong local, national and international links to industry, government bodies, charities and other research institutions. You will benefit in several ways:

  • Exposure to policy-makers, practitioners, regulatory professionals and experts.
  • Our curriculum is informed by an employer advisory board that provides insight into changing requirements of employers.
  • You can take advantage of our collaborators' facilities and expertise for your research projects or placement.

Accreditation

Graduates from Accredited programmes will receive one year of free membership of the Royal Society of Biology in their final year of their degree. This will open up networks at a crucial time when applying for jobs. The Royal Society of Biology is the leading professional body for the biological sciences in the United Kingdom. The Society represents over 18,000 biologists from all areas of the life sciences, as well as over 100 organisations which make up the diverse landscape of biology in the UK and overseas. The Royal Society of Biology offers members unique opportunities to engage with the life sciences and share their passion for biology. Whichever area of biology you wish to gain a career in, membership will help you:

  • Stay up to date with what is happening across the life sciences
  • Gain additional recognition for your skills and experience
  • Develop your professional network
  • Demonstrate your support for the future of biology

This degree holds accreditation from

Nature on our Doorstep

Current and former students tell us why they choose to study biological and environmental sciences at Aberdeen

What our Alumni Say

Kirsty North

Kirsty North

Kirsty North

Job Details
Scottish Natural Heritage
Graduated 2013

I thoroughly enjoyed my time at the University of Aberdeen as I was able to explore a wide range of subjects encompassing many different areas of natural history giving me a great knowledge base which helped my career.

Andy Scobie

Andy Scobie

Andy Scobie

Job Details
Upland Mapping Project Officer
Graduated 2005

My degree equipped me with a solid foundation and essential practical skills for the future. I have since pursued an interesting and varied career in plant conservation, botanical survey, and habitat mapping.

Our Experts

Director
Professor Michelle Pinard
Other Experts
Dr Sarah Woodin
Professor Xavier Lambin
Professor Stuart Piertney
Professor David Burslem
Dr Lesley Lancaster
Programme Coordinator
Dr Clare Trinder

Information About Staff Changes

You will be taught by a range of experts including professors, lecturers, teaching fellows and postgraduate tutors. Staff changes will occur from time to time; please see our InfoHub pages for further information.

Facilities

Fantastic facilities support our teaching and research, both on and off campus.

Image for Research facilities
Research facilities

Research facilities

Our research facilities on campus include animal holding facilities, greenhouses, fresh and salt-water aquaria, an insectarium, molecular and analytical laboratories, and a state of the art genomics lab.

Image for Lighthouse Field Station
Lighthouse Field Station

Lighthouse Field Station

We have our own research and teaching facility, The Lighthouse Field Station which is situated on the Cromarty Firth. In 2020 the station celebrated 30 years of teaching and research on the ecology of seals, dolphins and seabirds.

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Science Teaching Hub

Science Teaching Hub

Our state-of-the-art Science Teaching Hub provides students with a digitally focussed environment including advanced analytical tools, research-grade equipment and flexible laboratory spaces.

Find out more

Discover Uni

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Get in Touch

Contact Details

Address
Student Recruitment & Admissions
University of Aberdeen
University Office
Regent Walk
Aberdeen
AB24 3FX

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