Program Overview

MSc Zoo Conservation Biology

The MSc Zoo Conservation Biology is a postgraduate course taught in collaboration with Chester Zoo. This course is designed to produce graduates who would like to develop careers in the research and conservation of captive populations.

Course Overview

Zoos play a crucial role in animal conservation, and this course will develop expertise in the science that underpins the management and maintenance of captive populations. The course explores the links with species conservation on a global scale and features a strong numerical and research-oriented approach.

Course Structure

The course is run in close collaboration with Chester Zoo and features a unique partnership with the zoo. The core Zoo Conservation module is studied at Chester Zoo and includes guest lectures from zoo practitioners. There is also an option to choose between a field course or placement module.

Core Modules

• Zoo Conservation: This module is delivered in collaboration with Chester Zoo and examines the role of the modern zoo, with an emphasis on ex-situ and in-situ conservation.
• Statistics and Research Design: This module introduces students to a broad range of statistical tools used by scientists and covers approaches to experimental design and analysis using the modern statistical software R.
• Practical Techniques and Analysis in Zoo Conservation: This module provides an introduction to essential techniques for the collection and analysis of data needed for advanced studies within conservation and behaviour.
• Genetics for Conservation Management: This module introduces the application of molecular genetics tools to a range of problems in conservation biology, ecology, and evolutionary biology.
• Zoo Conservation Biology Research Dissertation: This module allows students to undertake a novel research project in the area of Zoo Conservation Biology.
• Bird Evolution, Behaviour and Conservation: This module deals with both fundamental and applied aspects of avian biology.
• Biodiversity, Natural Capital and Ecosystem Services: This module evaluates the latest techniques for assessing and monitoring biodiversity, natural capital, and ecosystem services.

Option Modules

• Conservation Field Course: This module applies theoretical knowledge acquired in the taught modules in a Conservation Field Course.
• Placement: This is a three-month work placement option that can take place at any WAZA (World Association of Zoos and Aquariums) accredited zoo in the UK or overseas.

Entry Requirements

• A UK honours degree – normally a 2:2 – or the international equivalent, in a relevant subject.
• Overseas applicants will require IELTS with an overall score of 6.5 with no less than 5.5 in any category, or an equivalent accepted English qualification.

Fees and Funding

• UK and Channel Island students: Full-time fee £12,500 per year, part-time fee £2084 per 30 credits.
• EU and non-EU international students: Full-time fee £22,500 per year, part-time fee £3750 per 30 credits.

Careers Support and Prospects

The course is designed to pave the way to a wide range of career paths and professional possibilities. Graduates can pursue careers in zoos or aquariums as zookeepers, conservation officers, or animal behaviourists, or play a pivotal role in research as conservation biologists or wildlife ecologists.

Research Areas

The course is rooted in the latest theory and practice, with research areas including habitat change, conservation genetics, and animal behaviour. The university is pioneering research in these areas, providing students with the opportunity to work with world-leading researchers and contribute to advances in the field.

Facilities

The university has invested £115m into world-class science and engineering facilities, including a newly developed superlab and conservation facilities. These facilities provide students with a dynamic, hands-on learning environment and prepare them for the modern workplace.