Develop your understanding of the natural world by conducting an in-depth research project in a topic you are passionate about within ecology, evolution or behaviour.
Entry Tariff
1 year (full-time)
2 years (part-time)
Duration
180 credits
Start date
September 2023
Degree Type
MbyRes
Modules
Why this course
Develop and conduct a substantial independent research project over the entire duration of the programme.
One-to-one support from world-leading research-active experts in ecology, evolution and behaviour.
Staff are part of a vibrant and dynamic research community with links to research projects and institutions across the world.
Develop advanced skills in analysis, scientific writing and project management.
Excellent preparation for further careers in academic, non-academic and commercial sectors.
Skills
This research master’s gives you the opportunity to develop your understanding of the natural world by undertaking an independent research project in a topic within ecology, evolution or behaviour.
The programme will provide you with an in-depth knowledge of your chosen topic. In addition, it also places an emphasis on providing you with transferrable skills in areas such as project management, data analysis and communication that will help you develop a future career in further research, non-academic or commercial sectors.
You’ll also receive dedicated training in research methods. This includes learning skills in scientific project design, data analysis and scientific reporting. Dedicated sessions are also provided in transferrable skills such as scientific communication, grant writing, CV writing and interview preparation.
What is Ecology, Evolution and Behaviour?
The ecology, evolution and behaviour of organisms are key elements of the natural world we see around us. Improving our knowledge of these topics is important in mitigating the impacts of environmental change, improving food and water security, increasing animal welfare and explaining the diversity of life we see across the globe.
How you'll learn
You will undertake this research project with the support of a dedicated research-active supervisor who is an expert in the field. They will guide and support you as you develop and conduct your project, giving you the opportunity to take ownership of a piece of research that you are passionate about. Supervisors will be members of staff from the dynamic and vibrant research community within the School of Life and Health Sciences. This includes world-leading researchers from the Centre for Research in Ecology, Evolution and Behaviour and the Centre for Research in Evolutionary, Social and Interdisciplinary Anthropology. Details of potential supervisors and research projects can be found here. When you’re developing your application, you should in touch with a potential supervisor to discuss potential research project topics.
With the support and guidance of this supervisor, you’ll spend the full duration of the programme conducting your research project. This includes developing hypotheses and predictions, collecting data, analysing these data and presenting these data in a final written report. This final report includes a paper suitable for submission to a peer-reviewed scientific journal and a press release to promote your project's findings.
How you'll be assessed
You’ll be set authentic assessment, meaning that your projects, tasks and exercises will replicate the working world of ecology, evolution and behaviour, ensuring that you are fully prepared for life after graduation.
Upcoming Events:
Career options
This course provides students with preparation for a wide range of future careers. These include careers in further research (e.g. PhDs), conservation projects and organisations, animal welfare groups and environmental charities. It also provides students with research skills that will be valuable in a range of careers in the public and private sectors.
How our careers service supports you
Our careers team is available to support you from the start of your studies until after you graduate. We will help you build your CV, prepare for interviews, and meet and learn from successful graduates working at the top of their careers.
Application Info
How to apply
Postgraduate programmes
You can now apply for any programme for any entry point in 2023.
All postgraduate taught applications can be made via our online application form.
- Check our application deadlines
- View our entry requirements for postgraduate programmes
- View our general entry criteria and application FAQs below
If you need any help or advice with your application, or just want to ask us a question before you apply, please do not hesitate to contact us.
International students
Please note that most international applicants have to pay a deposit before securing their place.
- See our Finance pages for more details
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Tuition fees and funding
September 2023 entry tuition fees
Year 1 fees, see links in table below for more information.
2023/24 entry funding
Students should get in touch with a potential supervisor when they are developing an application to discuss potential research project topics. Potential supervisors and research projects can be found here.
Specific entry requirements
2.1 degree (or international equivalent) in a relevant subject. Applicants with a 2.2 degree will also be considered if they have higher marks in relevant modules, e.g. final year research project, final year modules in ecology/evolution/behaviour topics. Other relevant professional experience will also be considered.
Validation and curriculum review
What is validation?
Validation is a formal process through which the University approves a programme (content, teaching, learning and assessment) as being of appropriate standard and quality. This is a normal process used throughout the university sector.
The University expects to publish details of the validated programme in the academic year prior to the start date of the programme. You are advised to check the University website at that time to ensure that you have up-to-date information. In the meantime, if you require information you should contact 0208 392 3232.
What is curriculum review?
Curriculum review is the regular and systematic monitoring and reviewing of programmes. It is a normal process in the sector and it is the way by which the university ensures that your course remains up-to-date and relevant. The process may result in changes to the content, structure and/or assessment of the programme.
The University expects to publish details of the re-validated programme by 31 March in the academic year prior to the start date of the programme. You are advised to check the University website at that time to ensure that you have up-to-date information. In the meantime, if you require information you should contact 0208 392 3232.
Need help before you apply?
Course Facilities
Our Research
For an overview of the research carried out by our academics within the School of Life and Health Sciences, please visit the departmental research pages.
