Conservation Biology MSc

Accredited by the Institution of Environmental Science, this course demonstrates high quality and innovative design. With a host of facilities, fieldwork and professional training-based placements you can get hands on, boosting your applied experience.

Course description

• As the number of species facing extinction continues to grow at an alarming rate, conservation biologists are in greater demand than ever before. This MSc is your pathway to a worthwhile career tackling one of society’s most pressing concerns.
• Deepen your understanding of the scientific principles underpinning conservation biology and explore practical solutions to environmental problems
• Study a course recognised for its high academic quality: this MSc is accredited by the Institution of Environmental Sciences
• Gain the practical experience you need for a fulfilling career in conservation or environmental management
• Undertake a training-based placement to build the skills and qualities most valued by employers
• Conduct fieldwork and research in some of the country’s outstanding natural environments: the Peak District National Park is right on our doorstep
• Take a global perspective: our Tropical Conservation Biology module takes you to Costa Rica to explore primary and secondary rainforests
• Be inspired by our highly qualified and experienced teaching team who are conducting influential national and international research.

How you will learn

You’ll be taught through lectures, guest lectures, workshops, practical sessions in the field and laboratory, and tutorials. There is also the opportunity to go on site visits.

The majority of modules are assessed by coursework rather than by exams. A wide range of assessment methods are used, from oral presentations and poster displays, to scientific and professional reports.

Careers

Our MSc equips you with a wide range of skills and knowledge in both biological conservation and environmental management. It could pave the way for rewarding roles in habitat management or environmental consultancy, with conservation agencies or with local or national government.

There are also opportunities to move into industry in roles which bridge environmental management with broader conservation issues – so you could pursue a career in areas such as waste management, energy efficiency or recycling.

This programme is an ideal stepping stone to an academic research career too. You could undertake a PhD to advance knowledge in this critically important field.

The course is made up of three stages – Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Diploma and MSc.

You will need an undergraduate degree (lower second or above) or equivalent in a relevant subject.