Evolutionary Behavioural Science MSc by Research

Overview

Discover how evolutionary behavioural science develops testable hypotheses to establish what instances or kinds of behaviour are, and are not, adaptations.

Why study the MSc Evolutionary Behavioural Science by Research at Middlesex University?

Behaviour gives an organism a flexible, adaptive or even plastic ability to respond to a finite set of changeable variables that they are likely to encounter in their lives. The term behaviour captures an array of phenotypic responses to ecological variables. A good working hypothesis is that behaviour has evolved and has therefore been selected for. This does not mean that all instances of behaviour, or even all kinds of behaviour, are adaptations.

This course will introduce you to core evolutionary theory, from Darwin to behavioural ecology, game theory and beyond. Through workshops and independent research you will learn how to address how to apply this theoretical knowledge in order to produce testable scientific hypotheses.

With our MSc by Research you will join the research community and undertake independent research.

Course content

What will you study on the MSc Evolutionary Behavioural Science by Research?

This programme is a unique, research-based course, which doesn’t follow the traditional model of lectures and exams.

You will join the research community through an ongoing series of workshops, building to your final thesis. The MSc by Research will prepare you for novel application areas with individually tailored learning experiences, enabling you to excel in both the academic sector and the job market.

Assessment

Assessment will be based on a final dissertation of approximately 30,000 words. Two independent examiners will be appointed who will read and evaluate the dissertation, following which you will be invited to make an oral defence of your work.