Ecology (with a Year Abroad)

The BSc Ecology with a Year Abroad at the University of East Anglia offers students an in-depth understanding of the natural world, emphasizing the relationships between organisms and their environments. This innovative programme combines rigorous academic coursework with practical field experiences, equipping students with the skills necessary to address complex ecological challenges. The course covers a wide range of topics, including biodiversity, conservation biology, environmental management, and ecological modelling. Throughout the programme, students engage in hands-on research projects, laboratory work, and field trips that deepen their understanding of ecological processes and conservation strategies. The Year Abroad component provides an invaluable opportunity to gain international experience, enhance language skills, and collaborate with global institutions and experts in the field. Students spend a dedicated year studying at an overseas partner university, which broadens their perspectives and enhances their adaptability in diverse ecological contexts. The programme is designed to prepare graduates for careers in environmental consultancy, conservation organizations, research institutions, governmental agencies, and policy development. It also offers a solid foundation for those wishing to pursue postgraduate studies in ecology, environmental science, or related disciplines. The University of East Anglia prides itself on its vibrant research community and state-of-the-art facilities, including laboratories, ecological reserves, and access to various field sites across the Norfolk Broads and beyond. Faculty members are active researchers renowned for their contributions to ecology and conservation biology. Students benefit from personalized mentorship, academic support, and opportunities to participate in ongoing research projects. By the end of the course, graduates will possess a comprehensive understanding of ecological principles, practical skills for environmental assessment and management, and international experience that enhances their career prospects in the dynamic field of ecology.

Detailed Course Facts

Application deadline January 15 Tuition fee

• EUR 10560 Year (EEA)
• EUR 17480 Year (Non-EEA)

UK/EU £9,000; International £14,900

Start date September 2015 Credits (ECTS) 240 ECTS
Duration full-time 48 months Languages Take an IELTS test

• English

Delivery mode On Campus Educational variant Full-time Intensity Flexible

Course Content

During the third year of your course you will spend a year studying abroad at one of our exchange partners:

Australasia – This is the most recent addition to our year abroad portfolio and has proven itself an extremely popular programme. Current exchange partners include: Murdoch University, Perth; Macquarie University, Sydney; and University of Auckland, New Zealand.

North America – Our North American exchange programme is long-established and continues to be popular. We currently have exchange agreements with US universities in California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Kansas, Maine, Missouri and Oregon. We also have exchange partners in Canada which currently include universities in British Columbia and Ontario.

Europe – Students on the European exchange programme will take appropriate language modules during the second year, in preparation for the third year spent at a university in Europe. Currently students can visit universities in France, Italy, Germany, Spain or Sweden. The acquisition of a second language and the experience of living and studying in Europe have proved a valuable asset to our graduates.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6 TOEFL iBT® test : 78

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

take an IELTS test. More About IELTS

Requirements

• A Level: AAB including Biology.
• International Baccalaureate: 33 points with 3 HL subjects at grade 6 including Biology.
• Scottish Highers: AAABB including Biology and one other science subject.
• Scottish Advanced Highers: AAB including Biology. Other Sciences at Advanced Higher level would confer an advantage
• Irish Leaving Certificate: AAAABB at Higher Level including Biology and at least two other science subjects.
• Access Course: See below
• HND: Please contact university for further information
• European Baccalaureate: 80% overall, including 8.0 in Biology.

Students for whom English is a Foreign language

We welcome applications from students from all academic backgrounds. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading). Recognised English Language qualifications include:

• IELTS: 6. overall (minimum 5.5 in any component)
• TOEFL: Internet-based score of 78 overall (minimum 20 in Speaking component, 17 in Writing and Listening components and 18 in Reading components.
• PTE: 55 overall (minimum 51 in any component).

If you do not meet the University's entry requirements, our INTO Language Learning Centre offers a range of university preparation courses to help you develop the high level of academic and English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study.

Interviews

The majority of candidates will not be called for an interview. However, for some students an interview will be requested. These are normally quite informal and generally cover topics such as your current studies, reasons for choosing the course and your personal interests and extra-curricular activities.

Gap Year

We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year, believing that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry and may wish to contact the appropriate Admissions Office directly to discuss this further.

Special Entry Requirements

A2-level Biology is required for this course. In addition to this, applicants are asked to have two other A2-level subjects. General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted.
Students who wish to study at a European university will be required to have achieved a GCSE grade B or above in the language of instruction for the year abroad.

Intakes

The School's annual intake is in September of each year.

Alternative Qualifications

We encourage you to apply if you have alternative qualifications equivalent to our stated entry requirement. Please contact us for further information.
Pass the Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 45 credits at Level 3, including 12 Level 3 credits in Biology.

GCSE Offer

Students are required to have Grade B in Mathematics and Grade C in English Language at GCSE Level. GCSE Grade B in the Language of instruction for the Year Abroad.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of East Anglia.

The BSc Ecology with Year Abroad at the University of East Anglia offers students a comprehensive understanding of the biological processes that underpin life on Earth. This programme is designed to develop knowledge and practical skills in ecology, environmental science, and conservation biology, preparing students for careers in research, environmental consultancy, conservation organizations, and policy development. The course is structured to include a strong foundation in biology, with particular focus on the interactions between organisms and their environments. One of the unique features of this programme is the year spent abroad, which provides students with valuable international experience, exposure to different ecosystems, and the opportunity to engage in collaborative research projects or internships. During the Year Abroad, students may study at partner universities across Europe or other regions, depending on the current exchange agreements. The curriculum covers various modules, including biodiversity, ecosystem processes, conservation issues, and research methods, all designed to build analytical and practical skills. The programme also emphasizes the use of modern technology in ecological research, such as remote sensing, GIS, and statistical analysis. Students gain hands-on experience through fieldwork in diverse habitats, laboratory investigations, and data analysis projects. Assessment methods include coursework, presentations, reports, and final exams. The university provides extensive support for international exchange, with dedicated staff to help students plan their year abroad and ensure a smooth transition and cultural adaptation. Graduates of the programme are well-equipped for postgraduate study or entering the workforce in sectors focused on environmental management, ecological consultancy, or wildlife conservation. The programme’s strong research base is supported by the School of Environmental Sciences at the University of East Anglia, which is recognized for its contribution to ecological and environmental research. Overall, Ecology with Year Abroad is ideal for students passionate about understanding the natural world and committed to making a positive impact on environmental sustainability.