Conservation Biology MSc

Manchester Metropolitan University

The world’s habitats are undergoing rapid transformation. The impacts of climate change are causing species extinction at an unprecedented rate. Conservation biology as a discipline looks at the science behind these changes – including the identification of ecosystems at risk, ways of conserving biodiversity, and the role of genetics and demography.

With our masters, you’ll tackle all that and more, gaining the knowledge and skills for a career at the forefront of conservation. You’ll explore the scientific background to species conservation and the factors driving extinction. You’ll also look at the sustainable use of resources and learn valuable statistical techniques for analysing ecological data. With a range of option units, you’ll be able to specialise in areas like species recovery and behavioural biology.

But this course is as much about practice as it is about theory. While the core units include a field course to Poland, Ecuador or Tanzania*, your masters project also has a practical focus, demanding in-depth research before you present your findings.

Throughout, it all, you’ll be supported by experienced academics, who’ll bring their real-world expertise directly to the classroom as you prepare to make your own way in the world of conservation. And the international focus of this degree, it’s a career journey that could take you literally anywhere.

*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

• 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 like conservation bodies, zoos, or water authorities.

• 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.

• Conservation biology expertise – We’re aligned with the Ecology and Environment Research Centre which aims to tackle the effect of humans on our planet, and provide coping strategies to deal with the inevitable changes that take place

• 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).