Bournemouth University

What you'll study

This programme combines applied ecology, conservation theory and practical techniques to prepare you for real-world biodiversity work. Core themes include population and community ecology, habitat management, species conservation, ecological survey methods, conservation policy and monitoring and evaluation.

• Ecological survey and monitoring: standard field techniques for plants, invertebrates, birds and mammals; designing monitoring programmes; data quality and citizen science approaches.
• Conservation biology and practice: principles of population viability, metapopulation dynamics, protected area design, species reintroduction and restoration ecology.
• Spatial analysis and GIS for conservation: spatial data collection, mapping, habitat suitability modelling and landscape-scale planning using GIS packages.
• Research methods and statistics: experimental design, sampling strategies, statistical analysis for ecological data and communicating quantitative results.
• Policy, governance and community engagement: conservation policy frameworks, stakeholder engagement, conservation planning and the socio-economic context of biodiversity action.
• Applied project / dissertation: an independent research or applied placement project that develops practical skills and builds a portfolio of work for employers or PhD applications.

Teaching usually combines lectures, laboratory practicals, computer workshops, field courses and project supervision. Fieldwork in the south-west of England and use of campus ecological facilities form an important part of training.

Entry requirements

• A good honours degree (typically a UK 2:2 or above) in a biological, environmental science or related discipline. Candidates with substantial relevant professional experience may also be considered.
• Evidence of practical experience in ecology or conservation (for example fieldwork, volunteer placements or paid roles) is highly desirable.
• Academic references or professional references to support your application.
• English language proficiency for international applicants, typically a recognised test at a level equivalent to IELTS 6.5 overall with minimum scores in individual components, unless exempt.
• Some applicants may be asked to attend an interview or submit examples of prior work to demonstrate suitability for the programme.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to a wide range of roles in conservation practice, policy and research. Typical career pathways include:

• Ecological consultant or surveyor with environmental consultancies carrying out EIAs, protected species surveys and habitat assessments.
• Field officer, reserve manager or species specialist with non-governmental organisations and charities.
• Local authority or statutory agency roles in biodiversity planning, habitat management and reporting.
• Roles in restoration ecology, habitat creation and landscape planning for private and public sector projects.
• Further academic research, including PhD study in ecology, conservation science or related areas.

The programme emphasises employability by building a practical portfolio, developing data analysis and GIS skills and fostering links with conservation organisations for placement and networking opportunities.

Why study at Bournemouth University

Bournemouth University offers a practice-oriented MSc with strong emphasis on field skills, data analysis and professional development. The programme draws on local and regional landscapes for field training and benefits from partnerships with conservation organisations and local authorities.

• Hands-on learning: frequent field courses, laboratory practicals and opportunities to work on applied projects with conservation partners.
• Facilities: access to ecological laboratories, GIS suites and equipment for terrestrial and freshwater surveys, supported by academic staff with active research and consultancy experience.
• Professional links and placements: established relationships with NGOs, statutory agencies and consultancies that help with placements, project topics and employment networking.
• Focused support: personalised dissertation supervision, careers support and training in transferable skills such as report writing, project management and science communication.

Together these elements make the MSc a solid route into practical conservation careers or further research in biodiversity science.