Evolution, Behaviour and Ecology MSc

Program Overview

MSc Evolution, Behaviour and Ecology

Overview

Cutting-edge training in Evolution and Animal Behaviour and their application to tackling the global challenges of our time. Delivered by the Centre for Ecology & Conservation; a globally recognised centre of excellence in research and teaching in evolutionary biology, animal behaviour and conservation biology. Study as part of the Graduate School of Environment and Sustainability in beautiful Cornwall. Two-week field course studying animal behaviour in the wild in the Galapagos Islands. Or focus on the challenges of rewilding in a two-week UK-based field course; a low-carbon alternative. Extensive skills training, designed to fast-track research and ecology careers. Gain first-hand experience conducting a major research project in your chosen area. Outstanding research facilities & opportunities to study the wild biodiversity on our spectacular Cornish coastline. Tailor your study to your needs with one-year full-time and two-year part-time options.

Entry Requirements

Normally a 2:1 degree or above in a relevant science subject* is required, although applicants with a 2:1 degree in another subject will be considered if their CV and personal statement evidence significant relevant research experience.

*Relevant subjects include: Biology, Biosciences, Ecology, Evolutionary Biology, Geography, Marine Biology, Natural Sciences, Zoology.

Fees

2025/26 entry (with International Field Course)

• UK fees per year: £15,700 full-time; £7,850 part-time
• International fees per year: £30,700 full-time; £15,350 part-time

2025/26 entry (with UK Field Course)

• UK fees per year: £14,500 full-time; £7,250 part-time
• International fees per year: £29,500 full-time; £14,750 part-time

Scholarships

The University of Exeter has many different scholarships available to support your education, including £5 million in scholarships for international students applying to study with us in the 2025/26 academic year, such as our Exeter Excellence Scholarships.

Research Experience

During your MSc you will join and train with a world-class community of researchers in organismal biology at our Centre for Ecology and Conservation in Cornwall. It is the largest and fastest-growing institute of its kind in the UK, and hosts globally significant expertise in Evolutionary biology, Animal Behaviour, Ecology and Conservation Biology across an array of leading international research groups.

Careers

Our programme is designed to prepare candidates for research and ecology-facing careers, whether within academia or the wider ecology and conservation sectors.

Module Details

Taught Modules (with International Field Course)

• BIOM4009: Research Project (90 credits)
• BIOM4046: Evolutionary and Behavioural Ecology: Frontiers and Approaches (30 credits)
• BIOM4025: Statistical Modelling (15 credits)
• BIOM422: Animal Behaviour and Global Challenges (15 credits)
• BIOM423: Evolutionary Principles in the Galapagos Island Field Course (30 credits)

Taught Modules (with UK Field Course)

• BIOM4009: Research Project (90 credits)
• BIOM4046: Evolutionary and Behavioural Ecology: Frontiers and Approaches (30 credits)
• BIOM4025: Statistical Modelling (15 credits)
• BIOM422: Animal Behaviour and Global Challenges (15 credits)
• BIOM4043: Rewilding the United Kingdom (30 credits)