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Human Ecology is a unique degree programme and the first of its kind in the UK. You study the relationship between humans and their environment and explore how environmental change is not only scientifically complex, but also embroiled in social, political and cultural upheavals.
Overview
Our degree emphasises an interdisciplinary, holistic and cross-cultural approach to human environmental relationships, integrating social and natural studies on critical thinking about the place of humans on the planet, and the causes and consequences of the present-day ecological crises.
Studying in Kent’s School of Anthropology and Conservation, you are taught by leading academics in the field. Whether you come from a humanities, social sciences or science background, you will find this programme interesting and exciting.
Our degree programme
Our programme combines both social and natural science approaches to the challenges of one-planet thinking. In your first year, you take introductory modules on human ecology and develop your aptitude for multidimensional, holistic, problem solving.
In the second and final years, you focus on specific areas of human ecology. You can study topics from diverse geographical contexts, spanning the fields of environmental economics, landscape planning, conservation biology, biological anthropology and ethnobiology.
The degree provides comprehensive training in the methods, tools and applications of human ecology. This includes qualitative and quantitative ecological and ethnographic data collection and analysis, field trips (in the UK and abroad; for example, the tropics), spatial analysis, and the application of research to practical problem solving.
Year in professional practice
The year in professional practice is a wonderful opportunity to spend up to a year, between the second and final years, undertaking work placements with organisations relevant to your degree programme. Placements can be at home or abroad and so offer you rare and unique experiences which will set you apart.
Alternatively, you can take our three-year Human Ecology degree, without a work placement. For details, see Human Ecology BSc (Hons).
Field trips
A number of our modules include opportunities for learning and experiences outside of the classroom through field trips in the UK and abroad. Potential excursions are:
- food and farming systems in East Kent
- High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
- Ashford Community Woodland, local nature reserve
- forestry management on the North Downs
- Powell Cotton Museum
- environmental sustainability in Broadstairs
- economic regeneration in Margate.
Students on the Tropical Ecology and Conservation module spend two weeks at the Danau Girang Field Centre in Borneo. The Centre is located in an area where huge swathes of jungle have been removed and replaced by plantations, so you work on the front line between managing the needs of the community and the impact on biodiversity.
These opportunities may change from year to year and may incur additional costs. See the funding tab for more information.
Studying at the University of Kent
In this video, Chloe Rowlands, BSc Human Ecology, shares her experiences of life at the University of Kent.
Study resources
The School of Anthropology and Conservation has excellent teaching resources including dedicated computing facilities. Other resources include:
- conservation genetics laboratories
- ecology laboratory
- field trials area and field laboratory
- a state-of-the-art visual anthropology room
- an ethnobiology lab for studying human-related plant material
- refurbished computer suite with 32 PCs with HD screens
- upgraded visual anthropology suite with 16 iMacs
- an integrated audio-visual system to help provide stimulating lectures
- student social spaces.
Extra activities
The Conservation Society and Anthropology Society are run by Kent students and are a good way to meet other students on your course in an informal way. Student societies also work with local organisations and charities providing lots of opportunities for volunteering, community work and outings.
The School of Anthropology and Conservation puts on many events that you are welcome to attend. We host two public lectures a year, the Stirling Lecture and the DICE Lecture, which bring current ideas in anthropology and conservation to a wider audience. We are delighted that these events attract leading conservation figures from around the world.
Each term, there are also seminars and workshops discussing current research in anthropology, conservation and human ecology.
Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology
This programme is taught by academic staff from across the School, including the Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology (DICE) research centre. DICE is a leading international research and training centre dedicated to the conservation of biodiversity and ecosystems around the world.
DICE was founded in 1989 with a clear mission: to conserve biodiversity and the ecological processes that support ecosystems and people. It does so by developing capacity and improving conservation management and policy through high-impact research. That is why DICE is in a School that does research and teaching in anthropology alongside conservation.
One component of DICE’s work is to train a new, interdisciplinary generation of conservationists who think innovatively about the challenges that lie ahead. As undergraduates, you are part of a dynamic and growing community of conservationists whose work spans all major regions of the world.
Independent rankings
The related subject of Anthropology at Kent was ranked 4th for course satisfaction in The Guardian University Guide 2018. In the National Student Survey 2017, over 88% of final-year Anthropology students were satisfied with the overall quality of their course.
For graduate prospects, Anthropology at Kent was ranked 4th in The Guardian University Guide 2018, 5th in The Times Good University Guide 2018 and 7th in The Complete University Guide 2018. Of the Anthropology and Conservation students who graduated from Kent in 2016, over 97% were in work or further study within six months (DLHE).
Teaching Excellence Framework
Based on the evidence available, the TEF Panel judged that the University of Kent delivers consistently outstanding teaching, learning and outcomes for its students. It is of the highest quality found in the UK.
Please see the University of Kent's Statement of Findings for more information.
Course structure
The following modules are indicative of those offered on this programme. This listing is based on the current curriculum and may change year to year in response to new curriculum developments and innovation.
On most programmes, you study a combination of compulsory and optional modules. You may also be able to take ‘wild’ modules from other programmes so you can customise your programme and explore other subjects that interest you.
Year in industry
Your Professional Practice placement
If you want to stand out from other graduates in today’s highly competitive global job market, spending time in the workplace as part of your degree can be invaluable. Many students find that prospective employers are very interested in their professional practice experience.
Participation in the placement year is normally dependent on maintaining a clean disciplinary record during your registration on the degree programme up to the time of your placement. It is your responsibility to find a placement, but the department offers help and support. If you cannot find a placement, your registration will change to the equivalent BSc (Hons) programme without the year in professional practice option.
The year in professional practice involves a minimum of 24 weeks spent on placement at one or more organisations whose work is relevant to your degree programme. This contributes to 10% of your final degree classification.
You are required to pay 15% of the normal annual tuition fee to Kent. Placements are primarily internships and vary significantly. Some employers will offer a salary, some offer subsistence whilst others offer no financial support.
During your placement, you work under the direction of a line manager within the host organisation, with additional support via a member of academic staff from the University. You work on one or more tasks agreed in advance; for example, a management plan, a policy report, consultation process, a piece of applied research, or development of a set of educational materials.
Assessment is via an appraisal by your designated line manager (10%) and a written report (80%) and presentation (10%) which are assessed by a member of academic staff.
Teaching and assessment
Kent was awarded gold, the highest rating, in the UK Government’s Teaching Excellence Framework. Based on the evidence available, the TEF Panel judged that the University of Kent delivers consistently outstanding teaching, learning and outcomes for its students. It is of the highest quality found in the UK.
Modules use a variety of approaches enabling students to gain theoretical and practical understanding, through formal lectures, seminars, workshops, computer practicals and tutorials, role playing, laboratory exercises and fieldwork (in the UK and abroad).
Most modules are assessed through a mixture of coursework – including not only essays and written reports but also more practical tasks such as presentations and mini-projects – as well as exams. Some modules are assessed only by coursework.
You also have an opportunity to conduct a field-based research thesis in your final year. This gives you practical experience of developing a research proposal and research questions, finding appropriate methods, conducting research, analysing and interpreting results, writing up a full research project and giving an oral presentation.
It also allows you to use a range of research methods in a variety of contexts to explore key environmental, geographical and anthropological issues and participate in the advancement of knowledge. You can conduct your research project either in the UK or abroad.
Year in professional practice
Assessment is by means of a manager appraisal (10%), a written report by the student (80%) and a presentation by the student (10%); the manager appraisal is carried out by the manager within the placement host organisation whereas the report and presentation are assessed by SAC academic staff.
Programme aims
Our aims are to:
- produce a broad, sophisticated and interdisciplinary approach to the study of human-environment relationships as socio-ecological, complex, and dynamic systems
- equip students with strong, state-of-the-art technical skills for quantitative, qualitative and spatial data collection and analysis of human-environment interactions
- provide students with a sound foundation in the scientific and humanistic approaches to the study of human-environment relationships, allowing them to consider the interaction between biophysical, ecological, historical and socio-cultural processes and dynamics
- sensitise students to the importance of pattern, process, scale, time and space in the study of complex systems and how these affect our understanding of biological, social and cultural diversity, as well as of human adaptation to the environment and to environmental change
- facilitate the educational experience of students through innovative opportunities for learning during fieldwork and hands-on approaches to analytical tools
- provide students with the opportunity to gain direct, practical experience relating to research and to the applied dimensions and social impact of their degree, with options for work, study and field trips abroad
- ensure that the learning experience provides transferable skills necessary for professional development, analytical problem-based solving, interpersonal development, autonomous practice and team-working, in a manner which is efficient, reliable and enjoyable to students
- equip interdisciplinary graduates with the ability to think critically and creatively and with the necessary practical and research skills to prepare them for high-level postgraduate studies or for a competitive job market
- prepare graduates for leading employment roles in the interdisciplinary fields of human ecology, nature conservation, environmental protection and sustainable development, in the commercial, private or public sectors
- offer students the opportunity to gain experience of work in a professional environment relevant to their degree programme, whether at home or abroad, and to receive credits and a dedicated award for this achievement
- provide an opportunity to apply knowledge, understanding and skills acquired in stages 1 and 2 of their degree programme in a professional setting
- develop employment-related skills, including an understanding of how to relate to the structures and functions in an organisation
- develop the qualities needed for employment in situations requiring the exercise of professionalism, independent thought, personal responsibility and decision-making.
Learning outcomes
Knowledge and understanding
You gain knowledge and understanding of:
- fundamental concepts of human ecology and how they relate to patterns and processes
- biological and evolutionary perspectives on human adaptation to the environment
- human diversity in conceptions of human-environment interactions
- principles of biocultural diversity, its threats and conservation
- the cognitive and social aspects of traditional environmental knowledge systems and their potential in tackling social and environmental crises
- social and cultural adaptation to the environment and to environmental change
- socio-cultural, political and institutional aspects of landscapes and ecosystems, landscape history, social memory, representation and identity
- the role of social, political, economic and cultural factors in shaping landscapes and ecosystems, both ‘natural’ and anthropogenic
- environmental and land-use change processes and patterns, and their relation to the co-evolution of social and ecological systems and complexity
- the different concepts and analytical frameworks of space and time
- principles of biodiversity conservation and habitat management
- valuation, ecosystem services and their relation to governance and political economy
- the way that an employee can contribute to the organisation in which they work
- specific areas of theory, policy or practice relevant to the host organisation(s) and the agreed placement task(s).
Intellectual skills
You develop intellectual abilities in the following areas:
- general learning and study skills
- critical and analytical skills
- ability to express ideas in writing and orally
- the design, implementation, analysis and write-up of a research project
- ability to effectively research, organise and interpret scholarly materials
- ability to formulate and test theories
- ability to make a structured and logical argument
- ability to use mixed methods for problem solving
- students will be able to apply some of the intellectual skills from stages 1 and 2 of the standard programme from the perspective of their chosen employment sector
- students will gain a broader perspective on their individual discipline.
Subject-specific skills
You gain subject-specific skills in:
- field biology (such as surveys and sampling)
- natural/biological scientific research
- qualitative and quantitative analyses of social and ethnographic data
- mapping and spatial analysis skills (Geographic Information Systems)
- laboratory work (ecological, biological anthropology
- documentation of local knowledge systems
- research design and statistics
- interactive media research tools, including online research and visual approaches
- appraising environmental, landscape and land-use changes
- evaluating the sustainability of resource use
- advising decision-makers on land-use changes and management of social-ecological systems
- application in professional practice of one or more subject-specific skills acquired in stages 1 and 2 of the degree programme.
Transferable skills
You gain transferable skills in the following:
- digital/IT/online skills
- presentation
- report and proposal writing
- time management
- library skills
- independent research
- group work
- the ability to work in a professional setting
- enhanced communication, teamwork and interpersonal skills
- enhanced ability for self-management, focus, and project management.
Careers
The conservation and environmental sector is an expanding area for employment opportunities. Potential employers include local, regional and national UK government departments, voluntary organisations and the private sector, as well as international conservation and environmental organisations. Many students also go on to pursue postgraduate studies.
Graduate destinations
The goal of the programme is to offer a degree that provides highly marketable skills and a deep understanding of current issues in human-nature interactions.
Using our network of NGOs and consultancy companies, we identified the skills that successful employees should have. This programme has been designed to equip students with the theoretical and practical skills that are highly demanded by employers in a wide range of fields relating to:
- environmental management and conservation
- spatial planning
- international and community development
- environmental science and policy making
- social research.
This programme also provides a solid foundation for postgraduate studies in a number of disciplines within the humanities and natural sciences.
Help finding a job
The School offers an employability programme aimed at helping you develop the skills you’ll need to look for a job. This includes workshops, mentoring and an online blog featuring tips, advice from employers, job adverts, internship information and volunteering opportunities.
The University’s friendly Careers and Employability Service offers advice on how to:
- apply for jobs
- write a good CV
- perform well in interviews.
Career-enhancing skills
As a human ecology student, you develop expertise in understanding, interpreting and responding to human behaviour. Alongside such specialist skills, you also develop the transferable skills graduate employers look for, including the ability to:
- think critically
- communicate your ideas and opinions
- work independently and as part of a team.
You can also gain extra skills by signing up for one of our Kent Extra activities, such as learning a language or volunteering.
Independent rankings
Of the Anthropology and Conservation students who graduated from Kent in 2016, over 97% were in work or further study within six months (DLHE).
For graduate prospects, Anthropology at Kent was ranked 4th in The Guardian University Guide 2018, 5th in The Times Good University Guide 2018 and 7th in The Complete University Guide 2018.
Entry requirements
Home/EU students
The University will consider applications from students offering a wide range of qualifications. Typical requirements are listed below. Students offering alternative qualifications should contact us for further advice.
It is not possible to offer places to all students who meet this typical offer/minimum requirement.
New GCSE grades
If you’ve taken exams under the new GCSE grading system, please see our conversion table to convert your GCSE grades.
| Qualification | Typical offer/minimum requirement |
|---|---|
| A level | ABB including one in Biology, Geography, Environmental Science, Chemistry, Psychology, or Geology |
| GCSE | Mathematics grade C/4 or above |
| Access to HE Diploma | The University will not necessarily make conditional offers to all Access candidates but will continue to assess them on an individual basis. If we make you an offer, you will need to obtain/pass the overall Access to Higher Education Diploma and may also be required to obtain a proportion of the total level 3 credits and/or credits in particular subjects at merit grade or above. |
| BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (formerly BTEC National Diploma) | The University will consider applicants holding BTEC National Diploma and Extended National Diploma Qualifications (QCF; NQF; OCR) on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice on your individual circumstances. |
| International Baccalaureate | IB Diploma 34 points overall or 16 points at Higher, including 5 at HL or 6 at SL in Biology, Geography, Environmental Science, Psychology, Geology or Chemistry |
International students
The University welcomes applications from international students. Our international recruitment team can guide you on entry requirements. See our International Student website for further information about entry requirements for your country.
If you need to increase your level of qualification ready for undergraduate study, we offer a number of International Foundation Programmes.
Meet our staff in your country
For more advice about applying to Kent, you can meet our staff at a range of international events.
English Language Requirements
Please see our English language entry requirements web page.
Please note that if you are required to meet an English language condition, we offer a number of 'pre-sessional' courses in English for Academic Purposes. You attend these courses before starting your degree programme.
General entry requirements
Please also see our general entry requirements.
Fees
The 2018/19 annual tuition fees for this programme are:
| UK/EU | Overseas | |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time | ||
| Part-time |
For details of when and how to pay fees and charges, please see our Student Finance Guide.
For students continuing on this programme, fees will increase year on year by no more than RPI + 3% in each academic year of study except where regulated.*
Your fee status
The University will assess your fee status as part of the application process. If you are uncertain about your fee status you may wish to seek advice from UKCISA before applying.
Fees for Year in Industry
For 2018/19 entrants, the standard year in industry fee for home, EU and international students is £1,385.
Fees for Year Abroad
UK, EU and international students on an approved year abroad for the full 2018/19 academic year pay £1,385 for that year.
Students studying abroad for less than one academic year will pay full fees according to their fee status.
Additional costs
Field trips
One day trips that are compulsory to a module are financially funded by the School. Optional or longer trips may require support funding from attendees.
General additional costs
Find out more about accommodation and living costs, plus general additional costs that you may pay when studying at Kent.
Funding
University funding
Kent offers generous financial support schemes to assist eligible undergraduate students during their studies. See our funding page for more details.
Government funding
You may be eligible for government finance to help pay for the costs of studying. See the Government's student finance website.
Scholarships
General scholarships
Scholarships are available for excellence in academic performance, sport and music and are awarded on merit. For further information on the range of awards available and to make an application see our scholarships website.
The Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence
At Kent we recognise, encourage and reward excellence. We have created the Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence.
For 2018/19 entry, the scholarship will be awarded to any applicant who achieves a minimum of AAA over three A levels, or the equivalent qualifications (including BTEC and IB) as specified on our scholarships pages.
The scholarship is also extended to those who achieve AAB at A level (or specified equivalents) where one of the subjects is either Mathematics or a Modern Foreign Language. Please review the eligibility criteria.