Accredited by the Institution of Environmental Science, this course demonstrates high quality and innovative design. With a host of facilities, fieldwork and professional training-based placements you can get hands on, boosting your applied experience.

As the number of species facing extinction continues to grow at an alarming rate, conservation biologists are in greater demand than ever before. This MSc is your pathway to a worthwhile career tackling one of society’s most pressing concerns.

• Deepen your understanding of the scientific principles underpinning conservation biology and explore practical solutions to environmental problems
• Study a course recognised for its high academic quality: this MSc is accredited by the Institution of Environmental Sciences
• Gain the practical experience you need for a fulfilling career in conservation or environmental management
• Undertake a training-based placement to build the skills and qualities most valued by employers 
• Conduct fieldwork and research in some of the country’s outstanding natural environments: the Peak District National Park is right on our doorstep
• Take a global perspective: in the past, our students have even studied in Singapore as part of our Tropical Conservation Biology module
• Be inspired by our highly qualified and experienced teaching team who are conducting influential national and international research

If you have your sights set on a career in conservation, habitat management or environmental consultancy, this MSc offers an excellent grounding in the skills and knowledge you need.

Expertise to make a difference

Over 15,000 species are now threatened with extinction, according to the World Conservation Union Red List. In fact, current extinction rates are estimated to be up to 10,000 times higher than they would naturally be. There is an urgent need for skilled, forward-thinking conservation biologists who can help reverse this trend.

Our MSc Conservation Biology combines strong theoretical knowledge and practical abilities. You’ll explore the reasons why so many species are endangered and develop vital skills in the management of wildlife and environments. Building on a firm understanding of theory, you’ll find practical solutions to environmental management problems.

The course is accredited by the Institution of Environmental Sciences (IES), which means that it reflects the high standards, ethics and values expected of environmental professionals.  

Practical challenges throughout

In the field and the laboratory alike, you’ll have the chance to hone your practical skills in everything from species identification to ecological surveys, sampling methods to statistical analyses.

Our facilities have recently been modernised to offer a first-rate learning environment. They include a glasshouse featuring plants from diverse habitats, an insectary housing many different species, and specialist laboratories. The latest addition to our facilities is our Aquatic Research Facility, which has been developed in collaboration with the Sealife Centre, Birmingham. We also have a student research lab where you will have a dedicated space to pursue your independent studies.

Exciting fieldwork in great locations

We bring theory to life with fascinating fieldwork opportunities. You’ll take full advantage of studying close to the stunning landscapes and diverse habitats of the Peak District National Park.

Conservation is a global priority so some students have ventured overseas to conduct their investigations. Groups taking our Tropical Conservation Biology module have, for instance, explored the primary rainforest, mangrove communities and seashore wildlife of Singapore.

Placement opportunities

To enhance your employability, the MSc includes an optional training-based placement. You’ll work with a host organisation such as a local authority, environmental consultancy, zoo or educational institution to experience ‘real world’ scenarios.

The focus of your placement will be on linking theory with practical investigations and problem-solving. You could find yourself exploring issues such as biodiversity, conservation, flood defence, or environmental contamination and remediation.

Our experienced teaching team

You’ll be taught by a highly qualified team who are supportive, friendly and approachable – keen to pass their knowledge on to you. They include active international researchers whose work has heralded important new approaches to conservation biology and environmental management.

They publish influential papers, speak at global conferences, serve on the editorial boards of scientific journals and are in demand as media commentators. In just one example, our Programme Leader Prof. Karim Vahed gave a Key-note lecture at the first European Conference on the Conservation of Orthoptera (grasshoppers and crickets) and has featured on TV programmes such as the BBC documentary Spider House.