MSc Applied Ecology and Conservation

Course Overview

Specialise in conservation ecology on our established MSc course, which provides you with tuition from world-leading experts in Ecology and Conservation from across our Schools of Biological Sciences and Environmental Sciences and from major conservation organisations and institutions such as the RSPB, CEFAS and the Cambridge Conservation Initiative (CCI).

You’ll study core taught modules in ecological survey methods, evidence-based global conservation and statistics, complemented by a broad range of optional modules covering topics including Geographical Information Systems (GIS), practical conservation and work experience, evolutionary biology and conservation genetics, conservation policy and statistical modelling using R.

You’ll then conduct a five-month research project exploring some of the most pressing biodiversity issues within an area of interest to you – often in collaboration with an external conservation organization in the UK or abroad. Many of our research dissertations are subsequently published in peer-reviewed journals (> 60 publications to date), and this CV-boosting feature of our MSc is a major feature of the success of our alumni in gaining PhD places to continue research.

In addition to in-depth exposure to global conservation issues, you’ll develop transferable skills and establish valuable contacts within national and international conservation organisations. These will equip you for progressing to doctoral research, for direct access into conservation-related employment or for pursuing careers in a field such as science communication, education or policy development.

Bachelors degree 2.2. Biology-related subject plus evidence of additional conservation experience. Geography and Environmental Management degrees are also acceptable if containing strong ecological component.