COURSE CURRICULUM

The MSc in Animal Behaviour and Cognition is a one-year program that provides students with comprehensive training in understanding animal behaviour, cognitive processes, and associated biological concepts. The course blends core theoretical knowledge with practical and analytical skills, enabling students to explore a wide range of life sciences topics such as social behaviour, animal movement, sexual selection, conservation, genetics, and microbiomics. Students are introduced to data analysis and bioinformatics through the Data Science and Bioinformatics module, where they learn essential coding and analysis tools used in modern biological research. Critical thinking and teamwork are developed in the Problem Based Learning in Biosciences module, which challenges students to dissect scientific literature and discuss complex biological questions in collaborative settings. The Effective Communication in Science module builds key professional skills such as scientific writing, poster and oral presentation, and engagement with ethics and career development. Students also take part in Research Planning and Management, where they design their own research proposal based on a chosen topic, conduct a literature review, and receive guidance on experimental design and presentation of their work. The program culminates in an independent Research Project, where students join a lab or research group within the Norwich Research Park to conduct field, lab, or data-driven investigations. This project allows students to apply their training in a real research environment, preparing them for careers in academia, industry, or science communication. Throughout the course, students gain transferable skills in communication, leadership, project management, and critical analysis, making this MSc ideal for those pursuing careers in animal behaviour, research, or further academic study.