Conservation and Biodiversity MSc

The MSc Conservation and Biodiversity will develop you as an environmental science professional with the ability to analyse and address the ecological and conservation challenges facing our planet. Our programme is interdisciplinary – we believe that having the specialist skills to manage habitats and tackle wildlife-human conflict, alongside a broader understanding of global environmental issues, will put you at the forefront of developing successful conservation actions.

The community you will belong to is based in Lancaster Environment Centre (LEC), home to a wide range of active, world-leading researchers making a positive impact in this field. This means that what you learn is truly cutting-edge. The MSc blends theory with practical skills so that you gain a solid foundation in key theoretical issues, such as wildlife population dynamics and conservation biology. You will also develop essential field skills in species identification, sampling and monitoring of populations and utilising geospatial approaches. These skills are valued by employers in the sector.

Who is this programme for?

Those who are passionate about nature and the diversity of life, who want to follow a career developing and implementing approaches for reverting biodiversity loss and promoting a positive human-nature future. You will take the skills gained into the fields of ecology, conservation and environment.

Looking ahead to employability

Throughout the programme, you will:

* Gain key skills in the identification of plants and animals

* Gain field skills including surveying, biodiversity monitoring and habitat assessment

* Develop analytical techniques for a diverse range of quantitative data

* Expand your critical interdisciplinary thinking

* Solve problems and make decisions to tackle environmental issues

* Work in groups to develop your teamwork skills

What to expect

Through a series of core and optional modules you will gain a good understanding of the key environmental challenges of the 21st century, their impact on society and techniques used in seeking solutions. More specifically, you will gain knowledge of the key ecological principles underpinning the conservation of species and habitats, while developing field and analytical skills to monitor populations and ecosystems.

Lancaster is well situated for outdoor learning. Surrounded by countryside, and with the Lake District World Heritage Site on our doorstep, you will work on case studies in some of the most interesting natural areas in the country.

Finally, your dissertation provides the opportunity to develop a research project with an external partner or organisation. This could include consultancies, NGOs or government agencies. It’s an exciting way to apply your knowledge and skills to make a positive impact.

3 things we’d like you to know

* This is a skills-based Master’s. Graduate with field, lab and IT skills for solving real-world conservation and environmental issues

* The breadth of expertise within LEC and exhibited by our partners allows us to make this Master’s truly interdisciplinary

* Enjoy our privileged location, making outdoor learning so enjoyable