This course has been designed in conjunction with employers and professional bodies. The main focus is on the development of practical employability skills. In recognition of the strong practical and employability focus, this the first and only degree in Scotland to be accredited by the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM), meaning you'll graduate with an accredited MSc.
In addition to studying relevant theory, you’ll have the opportunity to develop:
- advanced analytical skills for population investigation and management
- practical skills used in identifying, quantifying and assessing biodiversity
- transferable skills including communication, IT (GIS, R, Mark), problem solving, research and team working
Field course
You’ll need to be available to participate in a three-week intensive field course based in Scotland to help embed practical skills in sampling, identification (plants, aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates, small mammals, birds) and data analysis.
In addition, guided visits to several sites and talks from managers will highlight how conservation and management are informed by the aims and objectives of the site owners. This usually takes place in early May.
Our staff have years of experience working worldwide in wildlife conservation and consultancy and are keen to help you develop your potential. In addition, external speakers from a range of government agencies, charities and consultancies share their experiences and give insights into career options.
Lead academics and short bio
The core academic team boast a wide range of skills and research interests. Staff include:
- Patrick White (population dynamics, habitat utilisation, GIS, birds)
- Jason Gilchrist (behavioural ecology and biodiversity)
- Rob Briers (conservation planning, GIS and aquatic ecology)
- Jay Mackinnon (botany, environmental education, social research)
- Gavin Ballantyne (pollination ecology)
- Paul Ward (population and habitat modelling).