Overview

Key facts

The Tropical Ecology and Conservation MA program at Universidad San Francisco de Quito provides a strong foundation in ecosystem ecology, biodiversity assessment, and conservation genetics, while emphasizing hands-on fieldwork, independent research, and interdisciplinary approaches to conservation.

Guided by active researchers and conservation practitioners, students gain the skills needed to address urgent environmental challenges and are prepared for impactful careers in academia, NGOs, government, environmental consulting, or for pursuing doctoral studies—all within a vibrant community committed to protecting tropical ecosystems.

The Master’s in Tropical Ecology and Conservation at USFQ immerses students in one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth, transforming Ecuador’s unparalleled ecosystems into a living laboratory for advanced scientific training. This program blends cutting-edge ecological research, innovative conservation science, and hands-on field experience across the Andes, Amazon, and Galápagos Islands.

Students gain a rigorous foundation in topics such as terrestrial and aquatic ecosystem dynamics, biodiversity assessment, conservation genetics, and environmental management, while working closely with faculty actively shaping conservation policy and ecological research in the region.

Careers

Designed for aspiring researchers, conservation professionals, and environmental leaders, the program emphasizes field-based learning, independent research, and interdisciplinary approaches to understanding and protecting tropical biodiversity. Graduates leave prepared to tackle urgent environmental challenges, contribute to international conservation initiatives, and pursue doctoral studies or impactful careers in NGOs, academia, government, and environmental consulting.

In the heart of the tropics, the USFQ program offers more than a degree—it offers the opportunity to become part of a community committed to safeguarding the future of some of the planet’s most extraordinary ecosystems.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

terrestrial and aquatic ecology

conservation science

population genetics

advanced ecological methods

field trips

research seminars

Field venues:

• USFQ Galápagos Islands Campus (San Cristóbal, Galápagos, Ecuador)

• USFQ Tiputini Biodiversity Station, western Amazon (Ecuador)

• USFQ Tandayapa Cloud Forest Station, Andean Chocó (Ecuador)

Audience

This program is designed for:

graduates in biology, ecology, environmental science, and related fields

applicants whose formal training is in other disciplines but who have completed relevant coursework or gained research or professional experience in ecological or conservation-related fields.

Lecturers

Esteban Suárez
Juan Manuel Guayasamin
Elisa Bonaccorso

Alex Hearn

Margarita Brandt

Blanca Ríos

Francisco Cuesta

Stella de la Torre

Carolina Reyes-Puig
Rebecca Zug

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 21 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-01 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-05-31 00:00:00 , National
- Apply before 2027-01-31 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2027-01-31 00:00:00 , EEA/EU

Language

English

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Quito, Ecuador

Disciplines

Ecology Environmental Sciences

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

We are not aware of any English requirements for this programme.

Other requirements

General requirements

Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in biology, ecology, environmental science, or a related field. Candidates from other disciplines are welcome if they have completed relevant coursework or gained research or professional experience in ecology or conservation.

Required materials include academic transcripts, a curriculum vitae, a statement of purpose outlining research interests and career goals, and two letters of recommendation. All applicants are required to take an aptitude exam.

International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency and meet visa requirements. Competitive candidates often show strong academic performance, research experience, and a clear commitment to tropical ecology and conservation.

Work experience

Work experience in conservation, research, or community outreach is highly valued but not required.

Technological requirements

Intermediate knowledge of Microsoft Office, especially Excel spreadsheets, and a willingness to learn R programming and additional programming languages.

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items like Additional medical costs, Repatriation, Liability etc. Make sure your student insurance covers your needs.

Studyportals partnered with Aon to provide you with the best affordable student insurance, for a carefree experience away from home.

Get your student insurance now

Starting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.

Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at Universidad San Francisco de Quito and/or in Ecuador, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

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

8416 USD / year

≈ 8416 USD / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

6571 USD / year

≈ 6571 USD / year

Additional Details

Highly accomplished applicants may request consideration for the local tuition rate and may also apply for partial scholarships.

Funding

Tuition scholarships are primarily reserved for national applicants and those from the Global South, although some opportunities may be available to other international students who match specific research profiles. Both the program and the USFQ Graduate School offer small research grants, and all students receive support from their thesis advisors to pursue external research 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.

In order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Tropical Ecology and Conservation.

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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