Program Overview

MSc Animal Behaviour and Evolution

The MSc in Animal Behaviour and Evolution addresses the interaction between environment, experience, and physiology in the development and dynamics of animal behaviour. This masters course is a chance to explore them in detail – not only developing an understanding of the theoretical principles of behaviour, but also learning how to harness these principles to tackle real-world animal welfare and conservation issues.

Course Overview

From evolutionary development to environmental stimuli, animal behaviour is shaped by a range of factors. The course is built around strong core modules that address the interaction between environment, experience, and physiology in the development and dynamics of animal behaviour. You’ll have the opportunity to conduct both laboratory studies and field work to ensure you graduate with real-world experiences. To boost your employability and/or set you up for further study, the programme features a strong numerical and research-oriented approach.

Features and Benefits

• Strong industry links – To ensure your learning is relevant and impactful, we work closely with a range of organisations across the UK including the RSPCA, Chester Zoo and Knowsley Safari Park, along with overseas bodies such as the Kenya Wildlife Service.
• Professional study environment – We’ve invested over £115 million to transform the way we teach and the way our students learn. The new Dalton building is equipped with dynamic learning spaces, world-class teaching and research facilities and collaborative study zones.
• Expert teaching – Learn from a passionate community of teaching staff who bring extensive experience of field research into the classroom to shape your studies.
• Overseas fieldwork opportunities – Gain unrivalled practical experience in ecological and data collection techniques in some of the most famous wildlife sites in the world, including the Ngorongoro Crater, and the Serengeti National Park.
• Recognised for research excellence – 100% of our research impact in Ecology and Environment is world-leading or internationally excellent and we are ranked 5th in the UK for impact in Environmental Science (REF 2021).

Year 1

Core Modules

• Animal Behaviour and Evolution Research Dissertation – This module allows you to undertake a novel research project in the area of animal behaviour and evolution.
• Animal Behaviour Field Course – You'll apply the theoretical knowledge acquired in the taught modules in the Animal Behaviour Field Course.
• Behavioural Biology – This module is underpinned by evolutionary thinking and the four levels of analysis that Niko Tinbergen put forward for the study of animal behaviour.
• Biodiversity, Natural Capital and Ecosystem Services – Biodiversity loss is a major global challenge, with over one million species on the brink of extinction from threats including land use change, over exploitation, climate change and pollution.
• Bird Evolution, Behaviour and Conservation – This module deals with both fundamental and applied aspects of avian biology.
• Genetics for Conservation Management – Within the context of population genetics, this module will introduce the application of molecular genetics tools to a range of problems in conservation biology, ecology, and evolutionary biology.
• Practical Techniques and Analysis in Conservation Biology – An introduction is provided to the essential techniques for the collection and analysis of data needed for advanced studies within conservation.
• Statistics and Research Design – On this module, you'll design scientific studies and correctly interpret research output.

Study and Assessment

• Full-time 30% lectures, seminars or similar; 0% placement; 70% independent study
• Full-time 100% coursework; 0% practical; 0% examination

Entry Requirements

You’ll need a UK honours degree – normally a 2:2 – or the international equivalent, in a relevant subject. We might also consider your application if you have several years of professional experience in a related field.

Fees and Funding

• UK and Channel Island students: Full-time fee £12,500 per year
• EU and non-EU international students: Full-time fee £22,500 per year
• Additional costs: The field course is compulsory for MSc Animal Behaviour and Evolution students. The residential field course in Europe or Turkey is included in the cost of the course fees. The residential field course to Tanzania incurs an additional fee (approx. £2,500).

Careers Support and Prospects

The practical nature of our course prepares you for a wide range of career paths including animal management, conservation, teaching, environmental education and more. You could go on to work for a variety of organisations, from charities and wildlife parks to ecological and environmental consultancy. By the time you leave us, you’ll be equipped to pursue a career with organisations like environmental consultancies, government research and advisory bodies, zoos and NGOs, or to continue your studies onto PhD level. This course is also a valuable option if you’re already in a relevant role, with many students taking our masters course as part of their professional development. Some of our graduates have progressed into roles for organisations such as Defra, Natural England, Peak District National Park, The BBC, RSPCA, RSPB, and Zoos and aquaria.