Program Overview
The Conservation Ecology at Oxford Brookes University is a MSc programme in Natural Sciences over 12 months, delivered On-campus. This programme equips graduates with advanced knowledge and practical skills for professional and academic careers in the field.
Students gain a rigorous grounding in both the theoretical foundations and applied dimensions of natural sciences. The programme combines coursework, research components, and practical projects that develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and specialist expertise relevant to industry and research needs.
Graduates of the Conservation Ecology programme are well-prepared for careers in academia, industry, government, and the private sector across United Kingdom and internationally. The programme provides an internationally recognised qualification within the Bologna higher education framework.
Key Program Features
- Duration: 12 months
- Language of instruction: English
- Study mode: On-campus
- English requirement: IELTS 6.5
- Tuition: GBP 14,070 (Tuition (Year)) — International students; GBP 7,080 (Tuition (Year)) — EU/EEA students
- Location: Oxford, United Kingdom
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Conservation Ecology programme are prepared for diverse careers in natural sciences:
- Research Scientist
- Environmental Consultant
- Laboratory Manager
- Science Writer
- Policy Advisor
- Academic Researcher
Program Curriculum
Course Structure
- Taxonomy and Identification (20 level 7 credits) develops taxonomic skills by asking you to focus on the processes of identification of species and recognition of key characteristics of selected taxonomic groups. Skills are learned through practical studies in the field and the use of collections and appropriate taxonomic tools.
- Ecology for Conservation (20 level 7 credits) introduces appropriate theory and methods together with examination of areas of controversy and best practice for habitat and species conservation and monitoring.
- Ecosystem Degradation and Management (20 level 7 credits) considers the nature and extent of ecosystem degradation resulting from human activities and the methods for conserving and restoring degraded ecosystems.
- Ecology for Conservation (20 level 7 credits) introduces appropriate theory and methods together with examination of areas of controversy and best practice for habitat and species conservation and monitoring.
- International Legislation, Humans and Wildlife (20 level 7 credits) examines the role of international legislation in wildlife conservation and trade, and standard methods for assessing the status of species and habitats, together with a consideration of the role of human-wildlife conflicts in conservation.
- Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (20 level 7 credits) introduces the methods and practices of biodiversity assessment at large spatial scales and examines the essential role the components of biodiversity have in providing services for humankind.
- Career Development and Research Skills (20 level 7 credits) looks at the practical aspects of scientific work, such as designing and analysing experiments and presenting proposals for research and results to prospective employers.
- GIS and Environmental Modelling (20 level 7 credits) looks at the practical application of GIS and other computer-based techniques and models as tools to assist in environmental decision making.
- Procedures and Methods of EIA (40 level 7 credits) examines the procedures and methods of environmental impact assessments.
- Molecular Biology (20 level 7 credits) introduces core practical skills within molecular biology, to give a firm grounding in the practical aspects of molecular biology that can be applied to problems in conservation biology.
- Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (20 level 7 credits) introduces the methods and practices of biodiversity assessment at large spatial scales and examines the essential role the components of biodiversity have in providing services for humankind.
- Taxonomy and Identification (20 level 7 credits): see above for details
- GIS and Environmental Modelling (20 level 7 credits): see above for details
- Genetic and Population Management (20 level 7 credits) leads to an advanced understanding of the genetic and demographic management of both small captive populations and those that have become isolated in the wild. Principles of molecular and population genetics are placed in a practical context, and the skills of DNA sequencing and the use of micro-satellites and random sequencing techniques to assess genetic relationships are developed.
- Conservation Education (20 level 7 credits) provides the knowledge base required for effective conservation action is reviewed. This module centres on practical ways of conveying information about environmental decline and how public understanding is essential for effective conservation.
- Research Project (60 level 7 credits): this involves an individual research study on a selected topic in Conservation Ecology.
Admission Requirements
Academic Requirements
Entry requirements
In order to successfully complete a postgraduate course, applicants are usually expected to have (or be about to attain) at least a second class honours degree in a related scientific subject from a recognised institution of higher education. If you do not have these academic qualifications, you could still be offered a place on this course if you can show evidence of the potential to succeed based on professional and/or related experiences.
English language requirements
If your first language is not English, you must satisfy our English language requirements by providing us with evidence of a minimum IELTS score of 6.5.
English Proficiency: IELTS 6.5 or equivalent.
Tuition & Financial Information
Tuition Fee
GBP 14,070 (Tuition (Year)) — International students; GBP 7,080 (Tuition (Year)) — EU/EEA students
Tuition fees: GBP 14,070 (Tuition (Year)) — International students; GBP 7,080 (Tuition (Year)) — EU/EEA students
IELTS requirement: 6.5
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Contact Oxford Brookes University directly for scholarship, grant, and financial aid information for this programme. Many European universities offer merit-based and need-based funding for international and domestic students.
About Oxford Brookes University
Oxford Brookes University
Oxford, United Kingdom
Oxford Brookes University is a distinguished institution of higher education committed to academic excellence, innovative research, and preparing students for leadership in their chosen fields....
University Profile- Start Date September 2026
- Language English
- Duration 12 months