COURSE CURRICULUM

The MSc in Applied Ecology and Conservation is a one-year program designed to provide students with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience in ecological research and conservation. The course begins with a series of field trips, followed by a combination of taught modules running from October to March. After this, students undertake an individual research project, often overseas, applying their learning in a real-world context. The program includes compulsory modules that train students in essential ecological survey methods, statistical analysis, and evidence-based conservation strategies. Through the Ecological Survey Methods module, students gain hands-on experience in techniques such as radio-tracking, camera trapping, and acoustic monitoring. The Statistics for Biologists module introduces data analysis through R, covering both foundational and multivariate statistical techniques crucial for ecological studies. Another key component is the Evidence-Based Global Conservation module, which focuses on critically evaluating scientific evidence to shape biodiversity policies and conservation strategies. This module also addresses the complex interface between ecology, human society, and ecosystem services, and includes seminars from practicing conservationists to bridge academic learning with real-world application. The final part of the course is the dissertation, a substantial independent research project carried out between March and August. Students can conduct fieldwork or analyze existing datasets, either within the university or in collaboration with conservation organizations. The dissertation culminates in a 10,000-word report, reflecting original research on a topic of the student’s choice. Overall, this MSc equips graduates with the practical skills, scientific understanding, and critical thinking needed for careers in ecological research, conservation policy, consultancy, or further study at the PhD level.