Natural History Degrees
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Explore the natural world with national and global fieldwork opportunities
Earth Sciences at USW rated top in Wales for teaching and learning resources (National Student Survey 2023)
Accredited courses that give you a competitive career-advantage
Only UK university offering science-based natural history degrees
NATURAL HISTORY DEGREES
Explore the Natural World
Our unique natural history degrees focus on all aspects of the natural world with an emphasis on observation and fieldwork. We are the only university in the UK currently offering science-based bespoke natural history degrees.
Natural History is the study of organisms and the ecosystems in which they live. We bring together scientific and observational studies of animals, plants and their environments, whilst also giving students experience in digital photography and filming-making to study and document the wonders and diversity of the natural world.
Our Natural History degree has a strong practical field element for you to gain key skills in a range of environments. Our current students go on field courses to Pembrokeshire, Iceland, Spain and on the optional Natural History expedition to Botswana.*
Earth Sciences at USW rated top in Wales for teaching and learning resources (National Student Survey 2023)
Fieldwork Opportunities
Cardiff, the Brecon Beacons National Park, and the Glamorgan Heritage Coast are all nearby and provide a natural laboratory for study. We offer an impressive international portfolio of fieldwork too. Our students have gained field experience in Portugal, Iceland, Greece, Thailand, the Caribbean, Botswana, Spain and Uganda.
*Additional costs may apply for International fieldwork.
Excellent Facilities
Our students enjoy purpose-built labs as well as industry-standard research and specialist software that currently includes ArcGIS, ERDAS, RockWorks and MOVE. The University also has a state-of-the-art media room, giving students access to a range of equipment including DSLR and video cameras, and a media editing suite.
Accredited Courses
We have accreditations from the Royal Geographical Society, the Geological Society and the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management which reflect the quality of our courses. We also consistently rate highly in the National Student Survey, showing our commitment to our students on these courses.
Natural History Courses
Undergraduate
Natural history is the study of organisms and the environments in which they live. This is a diverse and exciting subject that covers the study of animals, plants and their environments, along with earth and environmental sciences.
You’ll study different organisms – how they are identified, their life history, relationships, behaviour and conservation. You'll also understand the processes that shape our land, coastlines and climate.
The BSc (Hons) Natural History and Media degree combines the study of photography, film-making and digital production with the philosophy of natural history and research in the natural world.
You’ll gain practical, scientific skills that are vital to ecology and conservation, with specialist skills in photography, film-making and digital production.
BSc (Hons) Natural History and Media
BSc (Hons) Natural History and Media (Including Foundation Year)
Postgraduate
The world’s environments have long been threatened by human impact. As pressures on the natural environment intensify, there is a growing need for professionals skilled in conservation and environmental management.
This MSc Renewable Energy and Sustainable Technology course will develop the cutting-edge multi-disciplinary knowledge and skills to enable you to develop a rewarding career in this fast-moving growth industry.
Get Hands-on
See our Fieldwork in Action
Gain an insight into what it's like to take part in fieldwork on various USW Natural History and Wildlife Conservation courses.
Our students have been lucky enough to undertake fieldwork across the globe. From the Glamorgan Heritage Coast to Uganda, we offer an impressive international portfolio of fieldwork.
After undertaking practical field work, gradautes leave USW with a range of employable skills.
LOCATIONS
Experience South Wales
The places you study and live make a big difference to what you get out of university. It’s important to be somewhere that feels like home, but can also surprise you. South Wales offers rich experiences, with Cardiff at the heart.
With campuses in and around Cardiff, you can experience the diversity that south Wales has to offer – the buzz of the cities, the beauty of the coast, and the calm of the countryside.
We have five campuses across three locations, but we’re one university. Every campus is open to you and whatever inspires you, you’re always welcome.
OPEN DAYS
Explore USW
Join us at an open day or live event and discover the opportunities waiting for you at the University of South Wales.
You'll have the chance to explore our campuses at Cardiff, Newport or Pontypridd, meet academic staff and current students, learn about life at USW and student money, and take part in interactive activities related to your course. For those who can't attend an on-campus event, we run online and on-demand events. There's plenty of ways to discover what USW is all about.
Don’t forget to follow us on social to keep up with what’s happening at USW. #USWFamily
CAREERS AND EMPLOYABILITY
Put Theory into Practice
A course at USW is more than just a degree. We create graduates who are prepared for tomorrow. People who are ready to build their careers and have the mindset to succeed through a degree that is 100% focused on what employers need in the future.
From projects based on working practices to time in the workplace through internships and placements, we’ll help you to build job-ready skills and gain relevant experience for your career. We also offer practical help with completing job applications and practising interview techniques. Support is available every step of the way.
APPLY
Ready to apply? We can't wait to welcome you to the #USWFamily. You can apply via UCAS or USW.
CHAT
Chat to our students, lecturers or staff. We're here to help answer any questions you may have.
STUDENT LIFE
Make friends for life, try out lots of new things and become more independent than ever before.
ACCOMMODATION
Where you live is just as important as what you study. Let's find your home away from home.