Ecology and Environmental Biology (BSc (Hons)) at University College Cork

The BSc Ecology and Environmental Biology degree is the only one of its kind in Ireland. The course was established in response to the increasing awareness of environmental and wildlife issues. It is the study of the interactions between animals, plants and microbes and their environment. It includes the study of how individual organisms interact in communities and how communities interact with the surrounding ecosystem.

This degree addresses such questions as: what controls animal and plant distribution, abundance and biodiversity? How do energy and nutrients move around ecosystems? How do species interact with each other? It also examines the biology of various habitats from marine and freshwater to terrestrial habitats and the soil. It uses the understanding of basic ecological principles and concepts to predict and manage environmental change caused by the human impact on natural ecosystems.

It includes subjects such as:

• Conservation
• Pest Control
• Wildlife and Fisheries Management
• Pollution and Ecotoxicology
• Resource Management

Ecology and Environmental Biology is the only degree of its kind in Ireland and was established in response to increasing awareness of environmental and wildlife issues.

A degree in Ecology and Environmental Biology provides you with a sound scientific knowledge and experience in a wide range of scientific techniques relevant to addressing current environmental issues. In particular, you will possess field skills and theoretical knowledge required for ecological work such as environmental and pollution monitoring, toxicity testing, impact assessment, and nature conservation and management.

In addition, you will learn laboratory techniques relevant to other biological fields including biochemistry, biotechnology, environmental sciences, aquaculture, fisheries and zoology.

Placement or Study Abroad Information

The School of BEES operates an exchange system mainly with North American universities that allows students to substitute a year abroad for Year 3 in UCC.

A work-experience module is also available to students in Year 4, enabling you to spend 6-10 weeks in a structured working environment, where you will be evaluated both on your contribution to the placement institution and by a report on your experience.

Skills and Careers Information

A degree in Ecology and Environmental Biology allows you to work in many different fields in Ireland and abroad such as: 

• research in universities or industry
• research in government agencies such as OPW, EPA, ERU, Forestry, Fisheries
• consultancy
• journalism
• teaching at second and third level
• administration in civil service, county councils or industry
• environmental scientists in industry, agriculture, aquaculture and fisheries and government
• management conservation working in habitat management, nature reserves, landscape planning, and fisheries