Program Overview
Home Study Postgraduate Taught home Courses Mathematics Applied Data Science (Ecology and Evolution) MSc Please note: This page is for 2027 entry. MSc Applied Data Science (Ecology and Evolution) UCAS code 1234 Duration 1 year full time Entry year 2026 Campus Penryn Campus Typical offer View full entry requirements A good degree (normally a 2:2). Contextual offers Why study MSc Applied Data Science (Ecology and Evolution) at Exeter? Develop expertise in data-driven perspectives on ecology, evolution, conservation, biodiversity, and epidemiology Based at our stunning Penryn Campus in Cornwall and run jointly by the University’s Environment and Sustainability Institute and the Centre for Ecology and Conservation Be exposed to a wide variety of data and data analytics approaches with opportunities to work with industry, charities, or the public sector You’ll be immersed in the “Big Data revolution” and develop expertise in data-driven perspectives on ecology, evolution, conservation, biodiversity, and epidemiology Gain the skills and experience you need to succeed in the demanding and fast growing data analytics sectors particularly in relation to ecology and evolution Apply for Sept 2026 entry Fast Track (current Exeter students) Open Days Get a prospectus Contact Programme Director: Dr Markus Mueller Web: Enquire online Phone: +44 (0)1392 72 72 72 2nd in the world for Ecology Shanghai Rankings Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2025 Top 20 in the UK for Mathematics 20th in The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026 Top 20 in the UK for world-leading research in Biological Sciences REF 2021, based on 4-star research Wide range of exciting and high-impact research projects Entry requirements A good degree (normally a 2:2). Successful applicants will usually have at least an A-level or equivalent in Mathematics and/or have received quantitative skills training as part of their undergraduate programme, or possess relevant professional experience.
Key Program Features
Why study MSc Applied Data Science (Ecology and Evolution) at Exeter?
- Develop expertise in data-driven perspectives on ecology, evolution, conservation, biodiversity, and epidemiology
- Based at our stunning Penryn Campus in Cornwall and run jointly by the University’s Environment and Sustainability Institute and the Centre for Ecology and Conservation
- Be exposed to a wide variety of data and data analytics approaches with opportunities to work with industry, charities, or the public sector
- You’ll be immersed in the “Big Data revolution” and develop expertise in data-driven perspectives on ecology, evolution, conservation, biodiversity, and epidemiology
- Gain the skills and experience you need to succeed in the demanding and fast growing data analytics sectors particularly in relation to ecology and evolution
Career Opportunities
Careers
This programme is aimed primarily at Life Science graduates looking to further develop expertise in ecology, evolution, conservation, biodiversity, or epidemiology, and to tap into or up-skill for the “Big Data revolution” in the field and in general.
The UK has one of the world’s strongest and most developed data analytics sectors, predicted to grow by 177% over the next 5 years and demand for qualified professionals continues to grow. The UK’s commitment to expansion of renewable energy is likely to mean a high level of investment in the sector in the next decade. The adoption of the UK’s microgeneration tariff in 2009, the Green Deal in 2013, the phased adoption of the Renewable Heat Incentive from 2011-2014 and introduction of Contracts for Difference in 2014, suggests continued strong support for rapid expansion of renewable energy in the UK.
National and international job opportunities
Internationally, many other countries are making similar investments with major industrial nations including the US, India and China investing heavily in renewable generation. This investment will create broad opportunities for those seeking to work in the sector, both nationally and internationally.
Employer-valued skills
- Data science, modelling and essential programming skills and how to apply these to The United Nations sustainable development goals
- Ability to extract information from data as a basis for evidence-based decision making
- Working with stakeholders and advanced team-working skills in complex organisations
- Using digital media to convert complex data sets into useful information to engage with the lay public and specialists
Students will receive support from our dedicated Career Zone team, who provide excellent career guidance at all stages of career planning. The Career Zone provides one-on-one support and is home to a wealth of business and industry contacts. Additionally, they host useful training events, workshops and lectures which are designed to further support you in following your chosen career path.
Program Curriculum
Course content
Contemporary crises of the environment, and the ongoing threats of habitat loss and extinction posed to many species, have brought into sharp focus the importance of data intensive research in ecology and evolution. This programme is specifically designed for students with an interest in modern approaches in the life sciences.
- Term 1: students develop core skills and understanding through the fundamentals modules in data science and in ecology and evolution
- Term 2: students are exposed to state of the art methods in the Trends in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence module, complete the interdisciplinary, inquiry-led module module Tackling Sustainability Challenges using Data and Models , and can select from further Masters level modules within biosciences
- Term 3: students undertake an advanced data science and modelling project
The modules below provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand.
Modules Please note that the module information displayed here is from a previous year and is subject to change. Compulsory modules Code Module Credits EMGM001 Fundamentals of Data Science 30 EMGM002 Trends in Data Science and AI 15 EMGM003 Data Science and Modelling Dissertation 60 EMGM004 Tackling Sustainability Challenges using Data and Models 30 BIOM4046 Evolutionary and Behavioural Ecology: Frontiers and Approaches 30 Optional modules Code Module Credits Select 15 credits*: BIOM4014 Preparing for Ecological Consultancy 15 BIOM421 Conservation Practice and Evidence 15 GEOM418 Marine and Coastal Social-Ecological Systems 15 BIO3415 Ecological Responses to Climate Change 15 BIO3421 Animal Migration 15 BIO3422 Animal Cognition 15 BEP3172 Future 17: Sustainable Development Goals Challenge 15 GEOM424 Governing the Seas in a Changing World`` 15
Admission Requirements
Entry requirements
A good degree (normally a 2:2).
Successful applicants will usually have at least an A-level or equivalent in Mathematics and/or have received quantitative skills training as part of their undergraduate programme, or possess relevant professional experience.
Prior experience of coding is not necessary on this course.
Please also see our guidance on essential documentation required for an initial decision on taught programme applications . Entry requirements for international students English language requirements International students need to show they have the required level of English language to study this course. The required IELTS test scores for this course fall under Profile B1 . Please visit our English language requirements page to view the required test scores and equivalencies from your country.
Tuition & Financial Information
Tuition Fee
GBP 21,700/year (international)
Fees
2026/27 entry
UK fees per year:
International fees per year:
Scholarships
The University of Exeter offers a wide range of scholarships to support your education, with £7 million available for international students applying to study with us in the 2026/27 academic year , including our prestigious Exeter Excellence Scholarships * . We also provide awards for sport, music and other achievements, as well as regional and partner scholarships with organisations such as Chevening, The Beacon Trust and the British Council. For more information on scholarships and other financial support, please visit our scholarships and bursaries page .
University of Exeter Alumni Scholarship
We are pleased to offer University of Exeter alumni beginning a standalone postgraduate programme in 2026/27 with us a scholarship towards the cost of your tuition fees. Full details can be found here.
*Terms and conditions, including deadlines, apply. See our website for details. .
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Scholarships
The University of Exeter offers a wide range of scholarships to support your education, with £7 million available for international students applying to study with us in the 2026/27 academic year , including our prestigious Exeter Excellence Scholarships * . We also provide awards for sport, music and other achievements, as well as regional and partner scholarships with organisations such as Chevening, The Beacon Trust and the British Council. For more information on scholarships and other financial support, please visit our scholarships and bursaries page .
University of Exeter Alumni Scholarship
We are pleased to offer University of Exeter alumni beginning a standalone postgraduate programme in 2026/27 with us a scholarship towards the cost of your tuition fees. Full details can be found here.
*Terms and conditions, including deadlines, apply. See our website for details. .
Find out more about tuition fees and funding »
About The University of Exeter
The University of Exeter
Botswana, Botswana
Visit the university profile page to learn more about this institution.
University Profile- Application Deadline 2018-07-21
- Start Date 2018-09-24
- Language English
- Duration 12 months
- Credits 60 ECTS / 180 credits (1-year programme)