MSc Global Conservation Biology

The world’s habitats are undergoing rapid transformation. The impacts of climate change are causing species extinction at an unprecedented rate. Conservation biology as a discipline looks at the science behind these changes – including the identification of ecosystems at risk, ways of conserving biodiversity, and the role of genetics and demography.

With our masters, you’ll tackle all that and more, gaining the knowledge and skills for a career at the forefront of conservation. You’ll explore the scientific background to species conservation and the factors driving extinction. You’ll also look at the sustainable use of resources and learn valuable statistical techniques for analysing ecological data. With a range of option units, you’ll be able to specialise in areas like species recovery and behavioural biology.

But this programme is as much about practice as it is about theory. While the core units include a field course to Poland, Ecuador or East Africa, your masters project also has a practical focus, demanding in-depth research before you present your findings.

Throughout it all, you’ll be supported by experienced academics, who’ll bring their real-world expertise direct to the classroom as you prepare to make your own way in the world of conservation. And with the international focus of this degree, it’s a career journey that could take you literally anywhere.

Features and Benefits

• Learn alongside world-leading researchers – 100% of our Ecology and Environment research impact is world-leading or internationally excellent and we are ranked 5th in the UK for impact in Environmental Science (REF 2021).
• Investing in your future – We’re transforming our science and engineering campus. Opening in 2024, the Dalton building provides a professional study environment with world-class facilities, including a 200 capacity Superlab, so that you’re well prepared to experience life within a modern industry setting when you graduate.
• Flexible learning – Make time for research, lab work and independent study thanks to evening lectures, all backed up by our online learning platform.
• Expert teaching – Learn from a passionate community of teaching staff who bring extensive experience of field research into the classroom to shape your studies.
• Overseas fieldwork opportunities – You will gain valuable practical experience in ecological and data collection techniques through our Field Course Unit, with the opportunity to visit some of the most famous wildlife sites in the world, including the Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti National Park.
• Explore your research interests – You’ll have the opportunity to carry out your research in association with staff projects across the world or with partner organisations such as conservation bodies and zoos.
• Excellent on-site research facilities – We are home to one of the UK’s only university-based Amphibian Conservation Research Facilities which works with zoos to determine the best way to conserve amphibians in captivity and halt their ongoing decline.

Applicants need a good UK honours degree – at least a 2:2 – or the international equivalent, in a relevant subject such as ecology, biology, zoology, botany, animal behaviour or environmental science. We might also consider your application if you have several years’ professional experience in a related field.