Ecology and Conservation (Professional Experience) MSc

Lancaster University

Learn how organisms interact with each other and their environment, and discover the impact of human activity in a series of exciting field-based and lab-taught modules.

Our MSci Hons degree is a four-year integrated Master's programme that includes a ten-week placement with a graduate employer. Our renowned researchers deliver an exceptional training programme that provides a thorough grounding in ecological theory and practice, combining lectures, practicals, fieldwork and small-group tutorials. You will gain a deep understanding and hands-on experience of how these principles are applied in the study and conservation of species and the ecosystems in which they live.

Throughout your degree, you will have the opportunity to experience a range of exciting field-work opportunities and residential courses. You will explore the Doñana National Park in the southwest of Spain, which is home to a plethora of plant and animal species, including the world’s most endangered cat, the Iberian Lynx. Or you may wish to swap this core module for the optional module, Eden Project Field Course, where you will learn about the conservation efforts to restore Cornwall’s natural habitats, and gain practical field work skills through guided excursions. You can also visit some of the UK’s last remaining natural habitats in rural Scotland, and observe a range of animals including red deer, mountain hare, pine marten, osprey and golden eagle; or contribute to an expert-led study of the Rift Valley of Kenya, where you will evaluate the challenge of balancing tropical conservation and human activity.

Your first year will begin with a rounded introduction to ecology and conservation biology. You will participate in the field course in southern Spain, and you will study a series of modules in ecology, evolutionary biology and conservation.

Specialisation from the second year onwards allows you to choose topics that match your interests. A diverse range of modules will equip you with a range of ecology, conservation biology and practical skills, and you can choose from a selection of relevant optional modules such as Evolution and Environmental Physiology.

In the third year, you will carry out an independent research project. Your module choices include Animal Behaviour, Conservation in Practice and Issues in Conservation Biology.

In your fourth year, you will take four Master's-level modules from the wide range on offer such as Environmental Toxicology and Wildlife Monitoring Techniques. You will also undertake a dissertation and a ten-week placement with a graduate employer as part of your professional experience.