Biological Sciences MRes

Program Overview

Biological Sciences MRes

Overview

Our MRes course in Biological Sciences allows you to carry out an extensive Master’s-level research project alongside two taught modules. You will have the opportunity to develop research and project management skills, as well as building your knowledge and experience in your chosen subject area.

Course Details

• Level: Postgraduate
• UCAS Code: N/A
• Start date: Oct 2025, Oct 2026
• Duration: 1 year full-time, 2 years part-time
• Location: Exton Park, Chester
• UK fees: £5,006 per year for a full-time course (2025/26)
• International fees: £19,133 per year for a full-time course (2025/26)

Course Structure

Year 1

• A compulsory taught module in MRes research methods provides advanced training in core specialisations; these may include project design and applying for grants, field techniques, statistical analysis and geographical information systems.
• You will then select a taught specialist module in an area relevant to your research project or career path.

Modules

Conservation Genetics

• Module content:
  • Genetics as a tool for conservation
  • Genetic markers
  • The use of non-invasive genetic techniques
  • Population-level genetic processes
  • Phylogenetic Comparative Methods
  • Interpreting genetic data to inform management
• Module aims:
  • To provide an introduction to cutting-edge genetic and genomic techniques that are used to inform conservation actions.
  • To introduce learners to the genetic approaches that are currently implemented to inform conservation management actions for species in the wild.

MRes Research Dissertation

• Module content:
  • On completion of the taught modules, students will have developed their knowledge base and attained a high level of competence in the application, analysis and evaluation of theory and practice.
  • The dissertation subject will be agreed with an appropriate supervisor and the Dissertation Module Leader (Research Co-ordinator).
• Module aims:
  • To provide the student with an opportunity to investigate systematically and in depth a scientific topic of direct relevance to the programme of study and their personal interests.
  • To enable the student to draw on and contribute to the development of the growing body of knowledge in their chosen broad scientific field.
  • To present the outcomes of personal research in the form of a scientific paper.
  • To be able to justify and critically discuss their research methods and study findings during an oral examination (viva).

MRes Research Methods

• Module content:
  • Planning, designing and funding research
  • Analysis of Biological Data
  • Introduction to Geographical Information systems
  • Specific research approaches (based on departmental expertise)
• Module aims:
  • The module provides students with an overview of design and planning, data analysis and research-focused methods in biological research.
  • To prepare students for their own research programmes as well as to broaden student exposure to departmental research and expertise.

Human-Animal Interactions and Animal Welfare

• Module content:
  • Expected topics to be covered include:
    • Welfare assessment advances and their practical applications from the perspectives of various stakeholders
    • Legal aspects and public perceptions of various animal groups and their welfare needs and status
    • Human-animal relationships and their impact on various groups of animals
    • Critical discussions on definitions of welfare and well-being
    • Current global threats to animal welfare including disease transmission
• Module aims:
  • To advance student understanding of the impact that human knowledge, experience and behaviour have on the welfare of the animals they interact with
  • To explore how different stakeholder groups view the same animal groups
  • To expand knowledge of welfare threats faced by key animal groups
  • To develop student communication and argument skills in the field of animal welfare

Behavioural Ecology in a Changing World

• Module content:
  • This module will focus on our understanding of wild animal behaviour in a natural environment.
  • Teaching will be research-informed and will cover key areas such as:
    • Behavioural plasticity
    • Social learning
    • Epigenetics
    • Social dynamics
    • Conservation behaviour
    • Phylogenetic comparative analyses
• Module aims:
  • To critically discuss how behavioural ecological principles can be used to solve real-life problems within the fields of conservation and wildlife management.
  • To develop students' understanding of modern research methods and approaches that can be used to effectively study animal behaviour in wild habitats.
  • To appreciate how human impacts/climate change can affect wild animal behaviour and how these effects can be mitigated by appropriate strategies.
  • To develop key communication skills targeting both academic and non-academic audiences.

Teaching and Assessment

• Teaching: Lectures, laboratory practical classes, field trips, and seminars, supplemented by online material such as discussion boards and analytical exercises.
• Assessment: Taught modules are assessed via coursework assignments. The dissertation project culminates in the production of a paper suitable for submission for peer-reviewed publication.

Entry Requirements

• Home Students: 2:1 honours degree in any relevant discipline with additional emphasis placed upon the student's preparedness for study and performance at interview.
• International/EU Students: 2:1 honours degree in any relevant discipline with additional emphasis placed upon the student's preparedness for study and performance at interview.
• English Language Requirements: For more information on our English Language requirements, please visit International Entry Requirements.

Fees and Funding

• Home Students: £5,006 per year full time (2025/26)
• International Students: £19,133 per year full time (2025/26)
• Additional Costs: Books, printing, photocopying, educational stationery and related materials, specialist clothing, travel to placements, optional field trips and software.
• Bursaries: The University of Chester supports fair access for students who may need additional support through a range of bursaries and scholarships.

Your Future Career

• Job Prospects: Previous MRes Biological Sciences graduates have gone on to work for conservation organisations and zoos, as well as working as ecological consultants, lecturers and project managers.
• Careers service: The University has an award-winning Careers and Employability service which provides a variety of employability-enhancing experiences; through the curriculum, through employer contact, tailored group sessions, individual information, advice and guidance.