Overview

You will learn the latest techniques in phylogenetics, biomechanics and macroevolution, providing you with a strong foundation for independent research to PhD level or for a career in museum curation, science education, science policy, management or the media.

A key aspect of the Palaeobiology programme from University of Bristol is preparing your research project for publication, and many of our previous students' projects have been published in leading international journals. Recent research project topics include the origin of cellular life, the preservation of colours in dinosaurs and the evolution of culture in humans.

This programme gives you the opportunity to develop a wide range of professional skills, including research planning, problem-solving and communication. You will learn to present palaeontological data through talks, visual displays and formal written reports. You will also develop computing skills in data handling, phylogenetics, macroevolution, function and 3D digital modelling.

Careers

The degree is research-based and many of our graduates go on to academic careers, usually starting with a PhD. The MSc is focused on methods and you will learn the latest quantitative and analytical techniques which are highly sought after by PhD supervisors across the world. The training in professional skills, including writing scientific papers, is also highly regarded.

Some students have gone on to careers in museums and now hold senior positions as curators and collection managers in national and regional museums. Other career paths include science policy, the media, science education at all levels, commercial work in marketing, consultancy, industry and computing.

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Programme Structure

Courses include:

Current Controversies in Palaeobiology and Macroevolution

Literature Review

Phylogenetic Methods in Palaeobiology

Research Methods in Palaeobiology

Geology for Research Palaeobiologists

Fossils and Phylogenies

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Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months
Part-time
- 24 months
- Flexible

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-21 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-08-27 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-09-21 00:00:00 , National

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

85

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PTE Academic

67

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

180 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Bristol, United Kingdom

Disciplines

Biology View 254 other Masters in Biology in United Kingdom

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Academic requirements

GPA

Upper Second Class

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

85

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

67

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

You will typically need an upper second-class honours degree or an international equivalent in any Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics subject (including Anthropology and Archaeology).

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Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

31400 GBP / year

≈ 31400 GBP / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

14300 GBP / year

≈ 14300 GBP / year

Additional Details

UK: part-time (two years)

£7,150 per year

Living costs

Bristol

United Kingdom

750 - 1260 GBP / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Palaeobiology.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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About

Overview

Careers

Get more details

Programme Structure

Check out the full curriculum

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

Explore more key information

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Make sure you meet all requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic Applies to you

Additional Details

Living costs

Bristol

Funding

Check for any work restrictions

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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