
Overview
Study factors affecting animal behaviour, conservation and welfare plus international zoo management and collaboration with this MSc Zoo Conservation Biology programme at University of Plymouth . Our partnership with Paignton Zoo gives you regular access to their connections, research and expertise – so you’re primed to make a difference.
Key Features:
- Delivered alongside industry partners at Paignton Zoo and its parent body, the Wild Planet Trust which also owns Newquay Zoo and Living Coasts.
- Develop your scientific knowledge, professional and technical skills as a zoo biologist. Learn how to manage animals and environments for the purpose of education, conservation and wildlife research.
- Study aspects of animal breeding, behaviour and ecology, as well as how welfare, housing, nutrition and health all have a part to play in species management.
- Learn to troubleshoot problems at the level of a social group within a particular zoological collection, right up to the level of a species globally. Explore how breeding programmes for endangered species are international in scope.
- Benefit from the knowledge and guidance of University of Plymouth's expert staff with specialisms including the behaviour of captive animals, animal nutrition, the welfare of captive birds and the application of population genetics to captive and natural fish populations.
- Find out how the science of zoos is used to inform government policy. Two of our teaching team are the only academic representatives on the government’s Zoos Expert Committee.
- Get behind-the-scenes insight with a number of days each week with our partners at Paignton Zoo. Deepen your understanding of the business and conservation work of zoos, and how networks and collaborations work between them.
- Access the latest research and information from the Wild Planet Trust including information on their co-ordinated breeding programmes for endangered species.
- Get a behind the scenes insight into Wild Planet Trust zoos: Paignton, Living Coasts and Newquay, and be inspired by the diversity of zoos in the area, including Shaldon, Dartmoor, Longleat, Bristol, and the National Marine Aquarium. Many students choose to conduct immersive research projects within zoos both locally and internationally.
- Graduates work in zoos as educators, researchers, managers and keepers. Many go on to PhD study or work in further education. Other employers include the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the European Association for Zoos and Aquaria; the Natural History Unit (BBC); national and international conservation organisations.
Get more details
Visit official programme websiteProgramme Structure
Courses include:
- Zoo Animal Behaviour and Welfare
- Contemporary Zoo Management
- Small Population Conservation
- Conservation Ecology and Society
- Zoo Animal Health, Nutrition and Management
- Research Project
- Postgraduate Research Skills & Methods
Check out the full curriculum
Visit official programme websiteKey information
Duration
- Full-time
- 12 months
Start dates & application deadlines
- StartingApply anytime.
Most of our taught programmes begin in September. Applications can usually be made throughout the year, and are considered until programmes are full.
Language
Credits
Delivered
Disciplines
Biology Animal Sciences Genetics View 223 other Masters in Genetics in United KingdomExplore more key information
Visit official programme websiteAcademic requirements
English requirements
Other requirements
General requirements
A 2:1 undergraduate degree or equivalent in a relevant discipline is usually required. Candidates with experience in a relevant area are also encouraged to apply.
- Applicants with overseas qualifications can check their comparability with the UK equivalent through NARIC, who provide an advisory service.
- If your first language is not English then evidence of English proficiency is required. The level of proficiency that is required can vary with the type of programme for which you are applying. For further advice on the appropriateness of overseas qualification and proficiency in the use of English, please contact our International Office.
- The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is normally 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element).
- We welcome applicants with international qualifications.
Make sure you meet all requirements
Visit official programme websiteTuition Fee
-
International
16700 GBP/yearTuition FeeBased on the tuition of 16700 GBP for the full programme during 12 months. -
National
10200 GBP/yearTuition FeeBased on the tuition of 10200 GBP for the full programme during 12 months.
Part time (Home) £550 per 10 credits.
Living costs for Plymouth
The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.
Funding
Studyportals Tip: Students can search online for independent or external scholarships that can help fund their studies. Check the scholarships to see whether you are eligible to apply. Many scholarships are either merit-based or needs-based.