MSc Wildlife Biology and Conservation

This course has been designed in conjunction with employers and professional bodies. The main focus is on the development of practical employability skills. Although it does not replicate the experience of on-campus students, your attendance and participation on the field course, together with independent field work will help to develop your competence in these essential aspects. In addition to studying relevant theory, you’ll have the opportunity to develop: advanced analytical skills for population investigation and management practical skills used in identifying, quantifying and assessing biodiversity transferable skills including communication, IT (GIS, R, Mark, Estimate S), problem solving, research and team working As one of your last taught modules, you'll need to be able to join with full-time students for a three-week intensive field course based in Scotland to help embed practical skills in sampling, identification (plants, aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates, small mammals, birds) and data analysis. In addition, guided visits to several sites and talks from managers will highlight how conservation and management are informed by the aims and objectives of the site owners. This usually takes place in early May. Our staff have years of experience working worldwide in wildlife conservation and consultancy and are keen to help you develop your potential. In addition, external speakers from a range of government agencies, charities and consultancies share their experiences and give insights into career options. The course is studied part-time by distance learning utilising a range of online learning materials. The number of modules taken each trimester can vary to suit your time availability. The typical rate is credits per trimester which means you will take three academic years to complete the taught credits. You'll then have a further two trimesters in which to complete a research project which you can develop to suit your geographic location and goals. With the support and guidance of our tutors you’ll develop an individualised programme of study that best suits you. Subjects include Principles of wildlife management Scientific methods Humans and wildlife Biodiversity and conservation Management of aquatic protected areas Field and laboratory skills Modelling wildlife populations or case studies in applied ecology Study modules mentioned above are indicative only. Some changes may occur between now and the time that you study. You can view a list of all current modules in our module catalogue.