Biodiversity Conservation and Ecosystem Management MSc

You study biodiversity and conservation in the context of a range of UK ecosystems including woodland, grassland and moor. You develop practical skills in habitat assessment and species identification, you develop your academic understanding, contribute to relevant research and meet local practitioners.

About this course

You’ll build up both your academic understanding and your practical skills relating to conservation, biodiversity and ecosystem management.

You will:

meet local people involved in national, statutory and non-governmental conservation organisations in the sector
develop an understanding of the sector and its issues
enhance your CV so that you are in a strong position in the job market, or so that you can embark upon a PhD

Also, not least, we hope you will enjoy your learning of this fascinating and extremely worthwhile subject so that you can potentially make a difference to our beautiful but threatened planet.

What you'll learn

You will develop understanding, practical ability and critical awareness around the following:

temperate zone ecosystems and wildlife species eg woodland, moorland, calaminarian, whin, coastal and other grassland, and other habitats
contemporary conservation issues eg rewilding, conflict in the countryside, biodiversity threats
habitat assessment appropriate for ecological consultancy work
surveying and mapping using technology such as GIS
plant and animal species identification skills
practical management planning for selected ecosystems
communication including presentations, report writing and team work.

Your development

You’ll be supported as you complete a major conservation or biodiversity research project in the field or laboratory. You can bring your own ideas or we will make suggestions for relevant, cutting edge, research ideas so you can contribute to the current body of knowledge. We provide ideas that link to local organisations such as:

Northumberland National Park
Natural England
local Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty
local Wildlife Trusts
Forestry Commission
National Trust
local ecological consultancies.