What will I learn on this module?
In this module you will explore the policies and practice of conservation, using examples from around the world. You will find out how the conservation value of a site is assessed in the UK (and in other countries), how climate change is affecting the distribution of species and habitats and the challenges of managing a site for conservation and other conflicting uses. The module combines professional practice focused on careers and challenging contemporary ideas.
Reviews of professionals working in the field of conservation (Ecological Skills: shaping the profession for the 21st Century, IEEM 2011 and CIEEM 2017) identified the need for graduates who can undertake standard ecological surveys of sites and make recommendations for habitat and species management. This module is designed to help you develop these practical and employment related skills.
The teaching will focus on building your practice-based expertise, the confidence to make judgements and how to implement standard methods (UK and international equivalents) that are essential skills for a career in the fields of conservation and environmental management. Topics are based on the research rich expertise of the teaching staff with workshops based on techniques and strategies you need to know to work in the conservation profession. At the heart of the module is the global biodiversity crisis, concepts of biodiversity (genetic biodiversity, species biodiversity, community biodiversity, habitat diversity), and how the conservation profession approach challenges in nature conservation and management. You will explore major causes of biodiversity loss with examples from the UK and beyond. Workshops build expertise and confidence in professional skills and coursework assignments are based on authentic challenges faced by professionals working in nature conservation and management. The overall aim is to equip you with the expertise, skills and confidence to work in nature conservation.
How will I learn on this module?
You will learn through lectures, workshops, practical management, and independent learning.
The timetabled sessions combine lectures, workshops, and field trip. Lectures will focus on research rich examples of contemporary practice and challenges for nature conservation, combined with workshops giving you the experience of working data collection and interpretation. Field trip will take you out to local site to gain first-hand experience of nature conservation site assessment. Your coursework puts you in the role of a nature conservation professional or an environmental consultant, using real data to make decisions or recommendations that inform conservation and management activities or decisions , an “assessment for learning approach” encouraging you to practice skills and build confidence.
Teaching staff operate an ‘open door’ policy for students meaning you can approach them anytime during normal office hours, or via email, to answer questions, receive feedback and support your learning on the module.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
You will be supported by feedback from the tutors, including timetable formative feedback session so you can get advice on coursework before you hand it in. In addition, the tutors will respond to individual questions via our open-door policy and email.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
You will be able to
• MLO 1: Research ecological problems in the field using a range of tools, to evaluate the results of surveys and reach justified conclusions grounded in ecological and conservation theory.
• MLO 2: Critically review ecological, environmental, legal, social and economic information to develop practical sustainable management solutions.
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
• MLO 3: Use, apply and critically assess subject-specialist techniques of data analysis and presentation e.g. nature reserve designations and habitat classification (UK or international), along with widely applicable professional skills of report writing, data handling and presentation.
These skills and methods have been chosen to underpin your employability, both in the precise detail of their use and the confidence gained from experience of using them.
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
• MLO 4: You will demonstrate professional competencies and a critical, inquisitive and nuanced approach to the conservation of biodiversity, in particular an awareness that people are the key.
How will I be assessed?
You will be assessed using two summative assessments that put you in the position of either a conservation officer or an environmental consultant.
Assessment 1 individual written report (50% of module mark), assessing MLO 1, 2, 3, and 4. Summative feedback is provided by individual feedback written directly onto the finished report.
Assessment 2 individual written report (50% of module mark), assessing MLO 1, 2, 3, and 4. Summative feedback is provided by individual feedback written directly onto the finished report.
Pre-requisite(s)
KE5014 Fundamentals of Ecology
Co-requisite(s)
None
Module abstract
Nature conservation is a challenging mixture of scientific enquiry and professional judgement. This module will give you the expertise, skills, and confidence to work in conservation and make a difference for the future of the planet. All the teaching and assessment is research rich, drawing not only on staff expertise but also encouraging you to see yourselves as conservation professionals. The module builds on advice from employers and makes an ideal link with dissertations and placements. We have many graduates working in conservation, with the RSPB, Environment Agency, Whale and Dolphin Conservation, local government, Wildlife Trusts, and consultancies. This module is a powerful stepping stone into these rewarding careers.
Course info
UCAS Code F800
Credits 20
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
Department Geography and Environmental Sciences
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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