Ben-Gurion University of the Negev

What you'll study

The programme blends core ecological theory with quantitative methods and applied conservation topics. Common modules and topics include:

• Population and community ecology: population dynamics, species interactions, community assembly and coexistence.
• Ecosystem and landscape ecology: nutrient and energy flows, ecosystem functioning, fragmentation and landscape connectivity.
• Conservation biology and restoration ecology: biodiversity assessment, protected-area design, restoration techniques and conservation planning.
• Quantitative methods and ecological modelling: statistics for ecology, spatial analysis, species distribution modelling and time-series analysis.
• Remote sensing and GIS: using satellite and aerial data to map habitats, land-use change and ecosystem responses.
• Field and laboratory methods: experimental design, sampling techniques, physiological and molecular tools where relevant, and long-term monitoring methods.
• Specialist seminars and elective topics: arid-land ecology, ecohydrology, agro-ecosystems, climate change impacts and human dimensions of conservation.

The MSc is research-focused: students undertake an original research project or thesis under the supervision of a faculty member, frequently using local field sites in the Negev or laboratory facilities. Coursework is supplemented by departmental seminars, journal clubs and opportunities for collaborative projects with institutes focused on desert and water research.

Entry requirements

• Academic background: a recognised bachelor’s degree in biology, ecology, environmental science, geography, agricultural sciences or a closely related discipline. Strong performance in ecology, statistics or related coursework is expected.
• Research experience: evidence of research potential or relevant practical experience (for example, a final-year project, internships, or fieldwork) is highly desirable.
• Application documents: academic transcripts, a personal statement outlining research interests, and letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
• Language proficiency: proficiency in the language of instruction as required by the university (applicants whose first language is not that language will normally need to provide recognised language test scores or equivalent evidence).
• Interview or proposal: some applicants may be asked to attend an interview or submit a brief research proposal identifying potential supervisors and project ideas.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MSc in Ecology go on to a range of careers across research, conservation and applied environmental sectors. Typical pathways include:

• Academic research and PhD studies: many graduates continue to doctoral study and academic research in ecology, evolution and environmental science.
• Environmental and ecological consultancy: working on environmental impact assessments, biodiversity surveys, habitat restoration and land-use planning.
• Government and public sector roles: positions in natural resource management, conservation agencies, and environmental regulation bodies.
• Non-governmental organisations and conservation NGOs: roles in species recovery programmes, protected-area management and community-based conservation.
• Industry and applied science: employment in water management, agriculture and environmental monitoring firms that require ecological expertise.

Why study at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev

Ben-Gurion University has particular strengths in arid-land and desert research, offering unique opportunities to study ecology in a range of dryland environments. The university’s institutes and research centres provide access to long-term field sites, specialised laboratories and interdisciplinary collaborations that link ecology with water science, agriculture and sustainability.

Students benefit from close supervision by faculty engaged in nationally and internationally recognised research, practical fieldwork possibilities in the Negev and partnerships with government bodies and NGOs. The programme’s location and research focus are especially valuable for students aiming to specialise in desert ecology, ecohydrology and the ecological challenges posed by climate variability and land-use change.