Develop interdisciplinary solutions needed to tackle the global biodiversity crisis. Understand the issues we face when conserving natural habitats and ecosystems upon which human communities depend. Become a member of the Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology (DICE), which in 2019 received the highly prestigious Queen’s Anniversary Prize for Higher and Further Education for its world-leading research and training in conservation science. On our MSc programme, which is delivered by DICE staff, you will collaborate with world-leading conservation scientists and gain the knowledge, skills and practical experience needed for a successful career in conservation.
A key focus for conservation managers needing to address the challenges of international wildlife trade is understanding the complex relationships between biodiversity conservation, local communities, and the use of natural resources. You’ll examine a range of factors that shape both legal and illegal wildlife trade, from economics to cyber-enabled wildlife trafficking, and how these factors affect biodiversity and society. The programme focuses on understanding what drives wildlife trade, its impacts on people and nature, and the challenges it presents for effective conservation. You will also undertake a research project specifically focused on these themes, giving you the opportunity to contribute to meaningful, real-world conservation efforts.
You will gain an interdisciplinary perspective on conservation issues, drawing on over 30 years of DICE expertise on what it takes for effective conservation management. You will receive state-of-the-art training across the full breadth of conservation disciplines, learning the approaches needed where local communities also rely on natural resource use, as well as the skills needed to restore threatened species and habitats. You will gain practical and methodological tools you will need to achieve success as a conservation scientist who can operate across the natural and social sciences.
2.2 or above in an acceptable subject
A first or second class honours degree in Biological Sciences or Conservation or another relevant subject, or a good honours degree in other subjects together with relevant practical experience. In exceptional circumstances we admit applicants without a first degree if their professional career and experience shows academic achievement of a high enough standard.
Please see our International Student website for entry requirements by country and other relevant information. Due to visa restrictions, students who require a student visa to study cannot study part-time unless undertaking a distance or blended learning programme with no on-campus provision.
This course requires a Good level of English language, equivalent to B2 on CEFR.
Details on how to meet this requirement can be found on our English Language requirements webpage .
Examples:
IELTS 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component
PTE Academic 63 with a minimum of 59 in each sub-test
A degree from a UK university
A degree from a Majority English Speaking Country