Protect your career and our planet in the expanding field of conservation

The field of conservation is constantly evolving, with new technology and techniques being developed to tackle the challenges facing our natural world. As climate change continues to impact ecosystems, and new threats to biodiversity emerge, it's important for conservation professionals to stay up-to-date with the latest innovations and best practices.

UNE offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses and specialisations in conservation, and we have a long history of ensuring our graduates are adaptable, innovative, and work-ready. Our conservation offerings focus on key concepts such as sustainability, wildlife conservation, climate change mitigation and environmental policy, ensuring that you are future-fit and ready for versatile opportunities.

At UNE, you can study online or on-campus, and full-time or part-time across three trimesters per year. Online students belong to a community of adult learners who share their life and work experiences to build valuable networks. On-campus students can take advantage of campus services, including accommodation and sporting facilities.

As a UNE graduate, you will feel confident and well-equipped to make a meaningful contribution to the field of conservation, whether you choose to work in the public or private sectors. By choosing UNE, you’ll be studying with an industry leader in the provision of online lifelong learning. Year after year, students award us the maximum 5-star ratings for Overall Experience and Student Support in The Good Universities Guide.

Explore UNE’s conservation offerings now.

Courses by study level

Food safety and security, natural resource depletion, climate change and the drive for sustainability are among the most significant global challenges of our time. There is a growing demand for professionals who are skilled at solving economics…

Duration
  • 4 years full-time
  • Up to 10 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online

With UNE's Bachelor of Agriculture, you will gain practical, production-oriented, specialist skills. You will have the paddock-ready skills and knowledge to solve problems and adapt to future challenges as a professional. Choose a major from one …

Duration
  • 3 years full-time
  • Up to 10 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online

With UNE's Bachelor of Animal Science you will graduate with knowledge and skills in the science-based fundamentals that underpin the relationships with and management of animals, plus acquire the practical experience to be on track for a…

Duration
  • 3 years full-time
  • Up to 10 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online

Do you dream of a career where you’re helping to address the big issues facing humanity? Or perhaps you crave the excitement of being at the forefront of scientific discovery? Maybe you wish to instil your passion for the environment into future…

Duration
  • 4 years full-time
  • Up to 10 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

Whether you are looking to re-train to become a Primary or Secondary school teacher, teach different subjects or upgrade your teaching accreditation, the UNE Bachelor of Education (In-Service Conversion) provides a flexible pathway to pivot and grow …

Duration
  • 1.5 years full-time
  • Up to 6 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • Online

Expand and hone your teaching knowledge while building a highly valuable breadth of skills with the UNE Bachelor of Education (K-12 Teaching). This is a dual sector degree giving you the flexibility to teach in both primary and secondary schools. It …

Duration
  • 4 years full-time
  • Up to 10 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online

In today's increasingly science and technology-driven world, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education is essential to help students develop 21st-century skills such as creativity, critical thinking and problem solving.…

Duration
  • 4 years full-time
  • Up to 10 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

The environmental problems that we face in a rapidly changing world require solutions developed by skilled scientists and innovators. UNE's Bachelor of Environmental Science gives you a broad foundation in the theories and practice that underpin …

Duration
  • 3 years full-time
  • Up to 10 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

The world requires skilled scientists and innovators to develop the solutions to the complex environmental problems facing a rapidly changing planet. Combined with a contemporary understanding of the theory and practice of law, the UNE Bachelor of…

Duration
  • 5 years full-time
  • Up to 12 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

Geoscience plays a crucial role in finding, extracting and managing earth resources. These minerals and energy resources are essential to almost every aspect of our day-to-day modern life. Studying UNE's Bachelor of GeoScience online or on…

Duration
  • 3 years full-time
  • Up to 10 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online

With UNE's Bachelor of Rural Science, you will graduate at the forefront of the agricultural industry ready to solve complex problems in agricultural systems across enterprises, landscapes and the globe. You will have the paddock-ready…

Duration
  • 4 years full-time
  • Up to 10 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

Constant technological disruption and new discoveries in science influence every aspect of our lives, meaning that there has never been a better time than now to safeguard your future career with scientific knowledge and practical skills. With 20…

Duration
  • 3 years full-time
  • Up to 10 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online

Studying the Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Laws at UNE will equip you with an extensive portfolio of knowledge and skills to future proof your career. In this comprehensive program of study, you will develop contemporary skills in how to write…

Duration
  • 5 years full-time
  • Up to 12 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

In a rapidly changing world, there has never been a better time to expand your understanding of science and technology. UNE’s Bachelor of Scientific Studies is designed to provide you with broad scientific background to assist with future employment …

Duration
  • 3 years full-time
  • 6 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

Work with people to build a better world and make a real difference with the Bachelor of Sustainability at UNE. Our degree integrates the social sciences and humanities with environmental sciences and natural resource management to…

Duration
  • 3 years full-time
  • Up to 10 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

Zoology examines how animals of all kinds — from microscopic parasites to blue whales, and from tiny finches to dinosaurs — live (or lived) in every type of habitat on our planet. Through hands-on laboratory and fieldwork focused on the study of…

Duration
  • 3 years full-time
  • Up to 10 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

Are you interested in studying science and want to explore the topics that interest you? UNE’s Diploma in Science is ideal if you are new to university study and want to get started in science, or if you wish to develop a foundation of skills and…

Duration
  • 1 year full-time
  • Up to 4 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

Environmental Studies at UNE is a diverse area of study that helps you to understand our natural environment and gain skills to make a tangible impact on our world. The Undergraduate Certificate in Environmental Studies provides you with a wide…

Duration
  • 1 year part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

The study of Life and Earth Studies is diverse and multidisciplinary, involving science, geology, ecology, biology, chemistry, evolution and more. Students at UNE are part of a rich history of life and earth science education in Australia, and…

Duration
  • 1 year part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online

Contribute to world class research by completing a Bachelor of Science with Honours at UNE. Position yourself with advanced scientific knowledge in an era of rapid change. Our honours course goes beyond the normal practical and field training and…

Duration
  • 1 year full-time
  • 2 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

With UNE's Graduate Certificate in Agriculture, you can expand your professional skills and gain a specialisation in a specific area of agriculture or develop your fundamental knowledge of agricultural science. UNE's Graduate Certificate in…

Duration
  • Up to 4 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

Environmental factors play an increasing role in decision making in many fields. The ability to take these factors into account and improve the productivity and sustainability of environmental systems to meet the current and future needs of…

Duration
  • 0.5 or 1 year full-time
  • Up to 4 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

Adapt to an evolving workplace and open the door to new career opportunities with UNE's Graduate Certificate in Professional Practice. Whether you want to create more career choices, hone your specialist skills, or take a new…

Duration
  • 0.5 years full-time
  • 2 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • Online

Design a bespoke course and prepare for a rapidly evolving workplace with the UNE Graduate Diploma in Professional Practice. Whether you want to advance your career, hone your skills or embark on a new career direction, we'll work …

Duration
  • 1 year full-time
  • Up to 4 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • Online

Whether you want to upgrade your expertise or pivot to another scientific speciality, UNE's Graduate Diploma in Science allows you to hone your skills and future fit your career. Flexibly delivered, and with a wide range of majors in diverse…

Duration
  • 1 year full-time
  • Up to 4 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

Communities and regions face complex challenges as they work towards improving living standards and wellbeing. Economists play a critical role in community and regional development by informing the decisions of government and non-government agencies …

Duration
  • 1.5 or 2 years full-time
  • Up to 6 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

The world is faced by rapidly advancing environmental challenges, with complex interactions between industry, government and communities driving development in the sector. Be ready to adapt and innovate to produce solutions to tomorrow’s…

Duration
  • 1 or 1.5 or 2 years full-time
  • Up to 6 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

With a wide range of majors in both the pure and applied sciences, UNE's Master of Scientific Studies provides you with specialised training in your chosen scientific discipline. Do you want to be able to respond to constant technological…

Duration
  • 2 years full-time
  • Up to 6 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online

Accelerate your career opportunities with the UNE Master of Teaching (Secondary). Gain the specialist knowledge and skills you need to become a sought-after teacher who makes a difference. Study online in a flexible timeframe that suits your…

Duration
  • 2 years full-time
  • Up to 6 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online

A Doctor of Philosophy is the pinnacle of academic study. Using rigorous and systematic research, combined with critical analysis, you will add to society's understanding of complex issues at the cutting-edge of your discipline or profession.…

Duration
  • 4 years full-time
  • 8 years part-time
Start
  • Research Period 1
  • Research Period 2
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online

Become an agent of change in the complex and evolving world of environmental science and play a key role in fixing today’s problems for future generations. With a focus on the major environmental challenges that currently face the world,…

Duration
  • 2 years full-time
  • Up to 4 years part-time
Start
  • Research Period 1
  • Research Period 2
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online

High quality research and analysis allows us to better understand the complex issues we face in industry and society. With UNE's Master of Philosophy by research, your original findings and insights will add to the body of knowledge and inform…

Duration
  • 2 years full-time
  • Up to 4 years part-time
Start
  • Research Period 1
  • Research Period 2
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online

Upgrade your knowledge and skills or pivot your career by developing expertise in sustainable, science-based agricultural systems of production through UNE's Master of Rural Science. This postgraduate degree offers a supportive program of…

Duration
  • 2 years full-time
  • Up to 4 years part-time
Start
  • Research Period 1
  • Research Period 2
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online
Master of Science

Understanding and discovery in science drives advancement, providing solutions to the world's health, environmental, agricultural and technological challenges. UNE's Master of Science allows you to study flexibly, to gain expertise and…

Duration
  • 2 years full-time
  • Up to 4 years part-time
Start
  • Research Period 1
  • Research Period 2
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online

If you are enrolled at another university, you can choose to study subjects at UNE that will count towards your course. Apply as a cross institutional student directly and complete one or several individual subjects (units) from the full scope of…

Duration
  • 1 trimester full-time
  • 1 trimester part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus
Non-Award

The world is full of possibilities, with so much to discover and learn. There are endless opportunities to enrich your knowledge to prepare for the future, but what if you don’t want to undertake a full degree? And how can you zero-in on the…

Duration
  • 1 trimester full-time
  • 1 trimester part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus
  • Bespoke Graduate Certificate: design your own  4 unit postgraduate course and have your work experience recognised in the process.
  • ‘Fundamental’ Bespoke Course: choose two, three or four  fundamental units from a traditional degree. If you are planning a new direction, or adding a new set of skills to your portfolio, you may want to start with this option. These units provide a foundation, or a ‘base camp’, to return to if you want to later progress to a full degree.
  • ‘Advanced’ Bespoke Course: choose two, three or four  advanced units from a full degree. This is a great strategy for staying current in your field, or advancing your knowledge.
  • ‘Critical Content’ Bespoke Course: choose two, three or four units any of the available units in a degree to create a  Critical Content Bespoke Course. This option lets you get the knowledge you need without the time and cost of a full degree.
  • ‘Mix and Match’ Bespoke Course: combine two, three or four units from different degrees and disciplines to design your  mix and match Bespoke Course. This option lets you diversify your knowledge.

Why study with us?

Smiling Bachelor of Agriculture student Greg Kemmett stands on wooden stairwell at UNE Armidale

The most enjoyable part of my studies is the sense of achievement and being part of something bigger than myself.

Greg Kemmett

Find the right major or specialisation for your studies in Conservation

Prepare for increasing environmental challenges and a growing need for conservation professionals by studying with UNE. Our courses provide you with the skills to make a positive impact on the planet and tackle the imminent changes that are taking place. Discover our conservation offerings now.

Filter by:
Showing 15 of 5 results
Botany
  • Undergraduate
  • Bachelor Honours
  • Postgraduate
  • Major
  • Minor
  • Specialisation
  • Teaching Area
  • Specialist Course
Benefit from UNE's expert botanists and develop the critical thinking, communication and problem-solving skills to secure your role in the rapidly changing world of scientific research; a field set to see vast changes as technology advances and…

Benefit from UNE's expert botanists and develop the critical thinking, communication and problem-solving skills to secure your role in the rapidly changing world of scientific research; a field set to see vast changes as technology advances and the climate crisis continues.

Courses Type Level of Study
Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science Major Undergraduate
Bachelor of Environmental Science Minor Undergraduate
Bachelor of Environmental Science/Bachelor of Laws Minor Undergraduate
Bachelor of Science Major Undergraduate
Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Laws Major Undergraduate
Bachelor of Zoology Minor Undergraduate
Bachelor of Science with Honours Major Bachelor Honours
Master of Scientific Studies Major Postgraduate
Graduate Diploma in Science Major Postgraduate
Graduate Certificate in Science Major Postgraduate
Ecology
  • Undergraduate
  • Bachelor Honours
  • Postgraduate
  • Major
  • Minor
  • Specialisation
  • Teaching Area
  • Specialist Course
Benefit from UNE's established reputation in ecology and conservation and develop technical skills in areas such as data analysis and survey design. Learn to use current and emerging technology and be future fit to work in a world that is…

Benefit from UNE's established reputation in ecology and conservation and develop technical skills in areas such as data analysis and survey design. Learn to use current and emerging technology and be future fit to work in a world that is constantly seeing new conservation challenges.

Courses Type Level of Study
Bachelor of GeoScience Minor Undergraduate
Bachelor of Science with Honours Major Bachelor Honours
Environmental Science
  • Undergraduate
  • Bachelor Honours
  • Postgraduate
  • Major
  • Minor
  • Specialisation
  • Teaching Area
  • Specialist Course
Environmental scientists are highly sought after to develop strategies for growing issues such as climate change and depletion of natural resources. Learn from UNE's industry experts and build your research, critical analysis, collaboration and…

Environmental scientists are highly sought after to develop strategies for growing issues such as climate change and depletion of natural resources. Learn from UNE's industry experts and build your research, critical analysis, collaboration and communication skills.

Courses Type Level of Study
Bachelor of Environmental Science Specialist Course Undergraduate
Bachelor of Environmental Science/Bachelor of Laws Specialist Course Undergraduate
Bachelor of Science with Honours Major Bachelor Honours
Master of Environmental Science and Management Specialist Course Postgraduate
Graduate Certificate in Environmental Science Specialist Course Postgraduate
Undergraduate Certificate in Environmental Studies Specialist Course Undergraduate
Undergraduate Certificate in Life and Earth Studies Specialist Course Undergraduate
Master of Environmental Science (Research) Specialist Course Postgraduate Research
Geoscience
  • Undergraduate
  • Bachelor Honours
  • Postgraduate
  • Major
  • Minor
  • Specialisation
  • Teaching Area
  • Specialist Course
Prepare for the increased focus on sustainability and renewable energy in geoscience with the experts at UNE. Future-fit your career by building knowledge and experience in rapidly developing areas of geoscience such as computer modelling and data…

Prepare for the increased focus on sustainability and renewable energy in geoscience with the experts at UNE. Future-fit your career by building knowledge and experience in rapidly developing areas of geoscience such as computer modelling and data analytics.

Courses Type Level of Study
Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science Major Undergraduate
Bachelor of Environmental Science Minor Undergraduate
Bachelor of Environmental Science/Bachelor of Laws Minor Undergraduate
Bachelor of GeoScience Major Undergraduate
Bachelor of Science Major Undergraduate
Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Laws Major Undergraduate
Bachelor of Science with Honours Major Bachelor Honours
Zoology
  • Undergraduate
  • Bachelor Honours
  • Postgraduate
  • Major
  • Minor
  • Specialisation
  • Teaching Area
  • Specialist Course
Become an expert in animal behaviour, biology, and ecology with UNE. Hone the technical skills such as remote sensing and data analysis that employers are now seeking. Secure a career in areas with growing demand such as conservation, wildlife…

Become an expert in animal behaviour, biology, and ecology with UNE. Hone the technical skills such as remote sensing and data analysis that employers are now seeking. Secure a career in areas with growing demand such as conservation, wildlife management, agriculture, or research.

Courses Type Level of Study
Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science Major Undergraduate
Bachelor of Environmental Science Minor Undergraduate
Bachelor of Environmental Science/Bachelor of Laws Minor Undergraduate
Bachelor of Science Major Undergraduate
Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Laws Major Undergraduate
Bachelor of Zoology Specialist Course Undergraduate
Bachelor of Science with Honours Major Bachelor Honours
Master of Scientific Studies Major Postgraduate
Graduate Diploma in Science Major Postgraduate
Graduate Certificate in Science Major Postgraduate
  • 1

Why study with us?

5 stars
For Overall Experience and Teaching Quality
Good Universities Guide 2024
Australian Universities
No. 1
For Undergraduate Student Support
Good Universities Guide 2024
Public NSW Universities
No. 1
For Postgraduate Student Experience
QILT Student Experience Survey
NSW Universities

Careers in Conservation

At UNE, we offer conservation courses and specialisations that prepare you for a wide range of career options. From data analysis and research to network administration and project management, our degrees provide you with the skills needed to thrive in the ever-changing field of conservation. Graduating from UNE means you will have the proficiency and knowledge required to secure a successful career in the wide variety of industries this growing area impacts.

  • Conservation scientist
    Conduct research and studies to protect and manage natural resources, wildlife and ecosystems.
  • Environmental scientist
    Advise individuals, businesses and governments on the impact of human activities on the environment and provide innovative solutions.
  • Park ranger
    Manage and oversee natural parks, reserves and wilderness areas to ensure their conservation and protection.
  • Wildlife biologist
    Study animal behaviour and their interactions with their environment. Develop conservation plans to protect endangered species.
  • Environmental educator
    Teach individuals and communities about environmental issues and how to protect the environment.
  • Climate change analyst
    Analyse climate data, assess the impacts of climate change on the environment and develop mitigation strategies.
  • Sustainability officer
    Develop and implement sustainable practices for individuals, businesses and organisations to reduce their environmental impact.
  • Natural resource manager
    Manage and oversee the sustainable use of natural resources such as forests, water and minerals.

A five-star experience

2024 Overall Experience Good University Logo

Five Stars,
18 Years in a Row

UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 18 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience

Good Universities Guide 2007-2024
2024 Student Experience Good University Logo

No.1 in NSW for
Student Experience

QILT (government-endorsed) ranks UNE as the top public NSW uni for Student Experience

QILT Student Experience Survey
2024 Teaching Quality Good University Logo

Five Stars for
Teaching Quality

UNE rates among the top 20 per cent of universities in Australia for Teaching Quality

Good Universities Guide 2024

What happens next?

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1. Decide on your course

Got any questions about a course you would like to study? Don’t hesitate to contact us, our Future Student team is standing by to help.

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2. Apply

2024 applications are now open. The application process only takes 20 minutes to complete. Don’t delay, apply now!

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3. Receive an offer, enrol and start studying

Your start date is based on the study period you choose to apply for.