The course specialisation aims to provide students with a broad-based foundation in biodiversity and conservation biology and allied areas, together with the ability to acquire extensive subject knowledge in the discipline. It also aims to develop a range of transferable research, analytical and communication skills including the capacity to:

Understand and apply relevant scientific principles in the area of conservation biology
Retrieve and present information about biodiversity and conservation biology effectively, communicate clearly with a variety of audiences in written and spoken forms
Critically analyse and evaluate information relevant to biodiversity and conservation biology
Appreciate the multidisciplinary aspect of studies in biodiversity and Conservation Biology and engage positively with people and ideas beyond the discipline
Work cooperatively and productively within a team
Work independently and take responsibility for updating and adapting their knowledge and skills
Appreciate the societal and ethical contexts of conservation biology, of human impacts on biodiversity and the professional practice of biologists

The Honours Year provides students with advanced skills that are required for planning, funding and carrying out research projects in a specific area. It also aims to develop a range of transferable research, analytical and communication skills including the capacity to:

Understand and apply relevant scientific principles
Retrieve and present scientific information, including communicating effectively with a variety of audiences in written and spoken form
Critically analyse and evaluate information and solve problems
Analyse and evaluate data, appreciate the multidisciplinary aspect of the science disciplines and engage positively with people and ideas beyond their own discipline area
Use information technology, work independently and take responsibility for updating and adapting their knowledge and skills
Appreciate the role of science in society, the regulatory framework within which it operates and the ethical issues it raises

The course specialisation provides the foundations that will underpin ongoing professional development, preparing graduates for further studies in biodiversity and conservation biology or another science or non-science related discipline, or for a career in this or a related field, or in other areas where the range of skills and knowledge acquired is needed or desirable.