MSc Animal Behaviour and Evolution

From evolutionary development to environmental stimuli, animal behaviour is shaped by a range of factors. This masters course is your chance to explore them in detail – not only developing your understanding of the theoretical principles of behaviour, but also learning how to harness these principles to tackle real-world animal welfare and conservation issues.  Its 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. The course is built around strong core units that address the interaction between environment, experience, and physiology in the development and dynamics of animal behaviour.  Above all, this is a course that offers the chance to study animal behaviour up close. You can choose between a field trip to Europe (eg France) or Tanzania in East Africa. The residential field course to Europe is mandatory and included in the cost of the course fees. As well as expert analytical abilities and practical research techniques, youll leave us with an in-depth understanding of how animal physiology, experience and environment combine to create behaviour. All of this knowledge prepares you to pursue a range of career paths, from animal management to education or further research.

Career prospects

The practical nature of our course prepares you for a wide range of career paths including animal management, conservation, teaching, environmental education and more. You could go on to work for a variety of organisations, from charities and wildlife parks to ecological and environmental consultancy. 

By the time you leave us, youll 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. This course is also a valuable option if youre already in a relevant role, with many students taking our masters course as part of their professional development. 

Some of our graduates have progressed into roles for organisations such as:

Defra

Natural England

Peak District National Park

The BBC

RSPCA

RSPB

Zoos and aquaria. 

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.