Field Courses

We run several engaging field courses within our degree programmes that cover a huge range of interests.

The aims of the field course programme are to provide you with the opportunity to:

• Develop knowledge and practical skills in subject areas that are not covered extensively in lecture units.
• Work closely with members of staff in their particular areas of expertise in an atmosphere that promotes close interaction through high teacher-to-student ratios.
• Acquire knowledge and expertise beneficial for practical research units in Year 3 such as survey/testing and recording data, analysing information and presenting findings.
• Gain experience in teamwork through co-ordinated group exercises, conducting short projects and collaborating with partners.

See what you do on the first year residential field trip:

Field course FAQs

When do the field courses run?

• First year residential field course is in the first term, and is for everyone as an introduction to becoming a biologist.
• Year 2 courses run around the end of Year 2.

How much do they cost and how long are they?

• There is no charge to go on the field courses.
• The first year residential is for two days, one night.
• The Year 2 courses are about one week long.
• Each Year 2 course is run by 2 staff and hosts up to 20 students.
• They may include preparatory and evening work.

What form do the field courses take?

• The first year residential is for everyone and is field- and workshop-based.
• You go on one Year 2 field course selecting from the options available.
• Options include field and lab-based courses that are Bristol-based or residential, led by lecturers from a variety of specialisms.
• Your Year 2 course goes towards your Year 3 practical research unit preparation and marks.

In addition, in Years 1 and 2, you also attend day field visits associated with specific lectures.