MSc Animal Behaviour

OVERVIEW

From evolutionary development to environmental stimuli, animal behaviour is shaped by a range of factors. This masters programme is your chance to explore them all – not only developing the theoretical principles of behaviour, but also learning how to harness these principles to tackle real-world animal welfare and conservation issues.

It’s an area that covers a diverse range of disciplines, from a strong numerical approach in the classroom, to a practical approach in the lab and in the field. While the course is built around a strong core of units, it also offers the flexibility to explore specialist areas, like conservation genetics or GIS.

Above all, this is a programme that offers the chance to study animal behaviour up close. As well as a field trip to Poland, Ecuador or Tanzania, your dissertation project could take you to Kenya, the Philippines or Mauritius (not to mention sites across the UK) for your research.

So, as well as expert analytical abilities and practical research techniques, you’ll leave us with an in-depth understanding of animals physiology, and how experience and environment combine to create behaviour – everything you need to pursue a range of career paths, from animal management to education or further research.

CAREER PROSPECTS

This is a course that can open a wide range of career paths including animal management, pest control, teaching, environmental education and more. While it provides the skills and understanding you’ll need to take your first steps in this area, it’s also a valuable option if you’re already in a relevant role – with many students taking our masters courses as part of their professional development.

You’ll have careers support from the moment you join us, and for up to three years after you’ve finished our course. We have a variety of services to help you get started, from dedicated employability advisors to careers fairs and networking events.

By the time you leave us, you should be equipped to pursue a career with organisations like environmental consultancies, government research and advisory bodies, zoos and NGOs, or to continue your studies onto PhD level.

Students will also achieve PgCert and PgDip awards during this course.

Applicants need a good UK honours degree – at least a 2:2 – or the international equivalent, in a relevant subject. We might also consider your application if you have several years’ professional experience in a related field.