Program Overview

---

MSc by Research Palaeontology / Overview

Degree Awarded

MSc by Research

Duration

12 Months. [Full-Time]

Entry Requirements

The standard academic entry requirement for this MSc by Research is a lower second-class (2:2) honours degree in a discipline directly relevant to the MSc by Research (or international equivalent).

Full Entry Requirements

• The standard academic entry requirement for this MSc by Research is a lower second-class (2:2) honours degree in a discipline directly relevant to the MSc by Research (or international equivalent).

How to Apply

• Apply online
• In your application you’ll need to include:
  • The name of this programme
  • Your research project title (i.e. the advertised project name or proposed project name) or area of research
  • Your proposed supervisor’s name
  • If you already have funding or you wish to be considered for any of the available funding
  • A supporting statement (see 'Advice to Applicants' for what to include)
  • Details of your previous university level study
  • Names and contact details of your two referees.

Sustainable Development Goals

• Goal 7: Affordable and clean energy
• Goal 13: Climate action
• Goal 14: Life below water
• Goal 15: Life on land

Programme Options

| Full-time | Part-time | Full-time distance learning | Part-time distance learning
---|---|---|---|---
MSc by Research | Y | N | N | N

Programme Description

Research in the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences covers three main research themes ; earth and planetary science, environment and society, and life on earth.

Research within this programme is directed towards dinosaur limb mechanics, including computer modelling of dinosaur gait, trackway formation and interpretation, including LiDAR digital mapping of sites, palaeopathology, taphonomy, and embryology.

The Manchester team is also active in palaeoecological studies of dinosaur sites, the study of fossil lagerstatten in general, and in arthropod taxonomy and palaeoecology.

Fees

For entry in the academic year beginning September 2025, the tuition fees are as follows:

• MSc by Research (full-time)
  • UK students (per annum): Band A - £5,006.00; Band B - £7,400; Band C - £10,500; Band D - £15,200; Band E - £25,700
  • International, including EU, students (per annum): Band A - £29,400; Band B - £31,500; Band C - £37,300; Band D - £45,200; Band E - £59,900

Scholarships/Sponsorships

There are a range of scholarships, studentships and awards at university, faculty and department level to support both UK and overseas postgraduate researchers.

To be considered for many of our scholarships, you’ll need to be nominated by your proposed supervisor. Therefore, we’d highly recommend you discuss potential sources of funding with your supervisor first, so they can advise on your suitability and make sure you meet nomination deadlines.

UN Sustainable Development Goals

The 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are the world's call to action on the most pressing challenges facing humanity. At The University of Manchester, we address the SDGs through our research and particularly in partnership with our students.

Led by our innovative research, our teaching ensures that all our graduates are empowered, inspired and equipped to address the key socio-political and environmental challenges facing the world.

To illustrate how our teaching will empower you as a change maker, we've highlighted the key SDGs that our programmes address.

Goal 7: Affordable and clean energy

Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all

Goal 13: Climate action

Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts

Goal 14: Life below water

Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development

Goal 15: Life on land

Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss

School/Faculty Overview

Our internationally-renowned expertise across the School of Natural Sciences informs research led teaching with strong collaboration across disciplines, unlocking new and exciting fields and translating science into reality. Our multidisciplinary learning and research activities advance the boundaries of science for the wider benefit of society, inspiring students to promote positive change through educating future leaders in the true fundamentals of science. Find out more about Science and Engineering at Manchester .

Programmes in Related Subject Areas

• Earth and Environmental Sciences

Regulated by the Office for Students

The University of Manchester is regulated by the Office for Students (OfS). The OfS aims to help students succeed in Higher Education by ensuring they receive excellent information and guidance, get high quality education that prepares them for the future and by protecting their interests. More information can be found at the OfS website.