This module provides a grounding in the concepts and methods required for conserving ecosystems, with a focus on ecosystem structure and function, biodiversity threats, ecosystem restoration and habitat management.

On successful completion of this module, you will be able to:

• Demonstrate an advanced understanding of ecosystem structure, function and ecological theory, applying this knowledge to ecosystem protection and species management in real-world contexts.
• Develop conservation aims, objectives and management strategies while assessing threats and proposing relevant habitat interventions at a landscape scale.
• Evaluate a range of ecological survey methods, including novel and cutting-edge techniques.
• Critically assess the effectiveness of ecosystem management strategies within the broader landscape context.

Careers / Further study

This module equips students with advanced skills in:

• Habitat assessment
• GIS
• Landscape-scale conservation planning
• Ecosystem restoration
• Ecological monitoring

These skills are directly relevant to careers in:

• Ecological consultancy
• Habitat management
• Nature recovery
• Land management
• Environmental regulation
• Conservation project delivery

Students will gain experience applying ecological theory to real-world conservation challenges, supporting progression into both practitioner and policy-focused roles.

The module also provides a strong foundation for further academic research, including MSc dissertations, research assistant positions and doctoral study in:

• Ecosystem ecology
• Restoration ecology
• Landscape conservation

Content

The module syllabus typically covers:

What is Natural?

• Concepts of wilderness.
• Discussions surrounding re-wilding.
• Different perspectives on what constitutes a natural ecosystem.

Ecosystem Structure and Function

• General principles of ecosystem structure and function.
• Recent advances in ecological theory that impact ecosystem function and conservation.
• Applying ecosystem theory to real-world conservation and management.

Key threats to species and ecosystems

• Identification of key threats to biodiversity and ecosystem function.
• Habitat loss and fragmentation.
• Global climate change.
• Invasive species.
• Wildlife disease.
• Mismanagement.
• Pollution.

Ecosystem (re-)creation and restoration

• General principles of ecosystem creation and restoration.
• Species conservation.
• Habitat loss mitigation.
• Revision of ecosystem services.
• Natural succession versus active restoration.
• Re-introducing plants and animals.
• Working with sites experiencing special problems, including fertility, toxicity and industrial waste.
• Evaluating the success of restoration projects.

Habitat Management

• What habitat management is and why it is necessary.
• General principles and techniques of habitat management.
• Setting conservation aims and objectives.
• Writing habitat management plans.
• Applying management strategies at a landscape scale.

Learning and Teaching

• Scheduled learning includes ten online 60-minute sessions and two four-day teaching blocks.
• Independent learning includes preparation for teaching sessions, ecological research and development of conservation management strategies.

Study time

The module consists of ten online 60-minute sessions and two four-day teaching blocks, complemented by independent learning.

Assessment

Summative Assessment

Assignment 1 (50% of module mark): A GIS ecological network analysis and 2,500-word report on habitat restoration scenarios for two woodland species in the UK.

Assignment 2 (50% of module mark): A 2,000-word habitat survey report that uses one of three ecosystem survey approaches and applies them to a conservation question in a local nature reserve.

Together, the assessments enable students to apply ecosystem ecology, GIS, ecological survey methods and habitat management principles to real-world conservation challenges, while developing their ability to critically evaluate conservation strategies and propose evidence-based management interventions.