Animal Behaviour MSc

Manchester Metropolitan University

From evolutionary development to environmental stimuli, animal behaviour is shaped by a range of factors. This masters course is your chance to explore them all – not only developing the theoretical principles of behaviour, but also learning how to harness these principles to tackle real-world animal welfare and conservation issues.

It’s an area that covers a diverse range of disciplines, from a strong numerical approach in the classroom to a practical approach in the lab and in the field. While the course is built around strong core units, it also offers the flexibility to explore specialist areas, such as genetics and GIS.

Above all, this is a course that offers the chance to study animal behaviour up close. As well as a field trip to Poland, Ecuador or Tanzania, your dissertation project could take you to Kenya, the Philippines or Mauritius (not to mention sites across the UK) for your research.*

As well as expert analytical abilities and practical research techniques, you’ll leave us with an in-depth understanding of animals physiology, and how experience and environment combine to create behaviour – everything you need to pursue a range of career paths, from animal management to education or further research.

*All overseas field courses are subject to any international travel restrictions and/or availability. The University follows the latest government guidance and if required, the overseas trip may be replaced with a UK alternative field course.

Features and Benefits

Strong links - We work closely with a range of organisations across the UK including the RSPCA, Chester Zoo and Knowsley Safari Park and with overseas bodies such as the Kenya Wildlife Service.

Excellent facilities - Study in the specialist surroundings of our John Dalton building, which is equipped with high-spec teaching and research facilities for biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics and more.

Research the real world - Carry out your research in association with staff projects across the world or with partner organisations such as conservation bodies and zoos.

Flexible learning - Make time for research, lab work and independent studies, thanks to a flexible course that includes evening lectures, all backed up by our online learning platform, Moodle.

Expert teaching - Learn from a vibrant community of teaching staff, who can bring extensive experience of field research into the classroom to shape your studies.

Overseas fieldwork opportunities - 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, the Serengeti National Park, and the last primaeval forest in Europe (Białowieźa).

Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology for the purpose of meeting, in part, the academic and experience requirement of membership and Chartered Biologist (CBiol).

Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology for the purpose of meeting, in part, the academic and experience requirement of membership and Chartered Biologist (CBiol).