Program Overview

---

Overview

The Master of Conservation Science is a 32-unit program delivered in regular University semesters and shorter intensive teaching periods, enabling completion in 1.5 years. The program is taught in an intensive mode, allowing students to complete the equivalent of 2 academic years in just 18 months. Students can choose between the research and coursework pathways, with the option to apply for admission to complete a major 4-month research project or complete 4 additional courses to finish their degree.

Program Details

• Duration: 1.5 Years (or part-time equivalent)
• Location: St Lucia
• Program Code: 5597
• AQF: Level 9
• Start Semester: Semester 2 (25 Jun, 2026), Summer Semester (30 Nov, 2026)

Entry Requirements

To be eligible for entry, students must have:

• A bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline, or
• A graduate certificate in conservation biology. Students must have a grade point average (GPA) of 5.0 on a 7-point scale in their previous qualification.

Relevant Disciplines

Relevant disciplines include:

• Botany
• Conservation
• Ecology
• Environmental studies
• Evolution
• Mathematics or statistics
• Marine science
• Zoology

Fees and Scholarships

• Indicative Annual Fee: $10,495 (2026)
• International Student Fee: AUD $87,084 (2026)
• Additional Costs: Compulsory field trip courses may incur additional costs.
• Government Assistance: Domestic places in the Master of Conservation Science are Commonwealth supported.
• Scholarships: Available for eligible students.

How to Apply

All international applications should be submitted to UQ. The program code for the Master of Conservation Science is 5597.

Important Dates

• The closing date for this program is April 1 of the year of commencement.

Career Possibilities

Postgraduate study can lead to various careers, including:

• Endangered species ecologist
• Pest management researcher
• Natural resources manager
• Policy developer
• Environmental sustainability manager
• National parks and wildlife officer
• Agribusiness consultant
• Zoologist
• Bush regeneration consultant
• Ecotourism manager

Program Highlights

• Learn from UQ's experts and industry leaders.
• Gain a comprehensive education in ecosystems and evolutionary potential.
• Access unique biodiversity hotspots and fascinating ecosystems.
• Ranked 1 in Australia and 15 in the world for environmental sciences (QS World University Rankings 2025).

What You'll Study

The program includes a variety of courses, such as:

• Conservation & Wildlife Biology
• Geographical Information Systems
• Marine Conservation
• International & National Conservation Policy

How You'll Learn

Learning experiences are designed to suit the learning outcomes of the courses, including:

• Lectures
• Tutorials
• Research experience
• Laboratory work
• Fieldwork
• Studios
• Workshops

English Language Requirements

• IELTS overall 6.5; reading 6; writing 6; speaking 6; listening 6.
• TOEFL iBT (including Paper Edition) - Overall 87, listening 19, reading 19, writing 21 and speaking 19.
• PTE Academic - Overall Score of 64 and 60 in all sub bands.
• BE - A minimum overall grade of 4 plus a minimum grade of C in all macro skills.
• CES - Overall 176 and 169 in all sub bands.
• OET is not accepted.