COURSE CURRICULUM

The Conservation and Community Engagement degree at ARU Writtle is designed to equip students with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to support biodiversity and wildlife conservation while engaging effectively with local communities. In Year 1, students build a foundation in biology, ecology, and evolution, while exploring human-animal interactions, environmental policy, science communication, and personal and professional wellbeing. This grounding prepares students to understand the relationships between people, animals, and ecosystems. Year 2 develops applied skills, focusing on research methods, habitat management, plant-animal interactions, and wildlife conservation practices, including animal rescue, rehabilitation, and rehoming. Students also explore the connections between nature and human wellbeing, undertake community engagement activities, and participate in a residential field trip to gain hands-on experience. In Year 3, the program emphasizes advanced conservation skills and leadership, with modules covering conservation planning and development, applied wildlife conservation issues, decolonising conservation, behaviour change, and applied engagement, education, and advocacy. The Major Project allows students to undertake in-depth independent research or practical work, applying their learning in real-world contexts. Through this blend of academic study, practical experience, and community-focused engagement, graduates are prepared to design, implement, and evaluate sustainable conservation projects that balance ecological needs with social and community considerations.