MSc Island Biodiversity and Conservation

at University of Exeter

Islands provide some of the planet’s most spectacular examples of biodiversity, making them important repositories of unique species. Yet there are more endangered species and habitats per capita in Small Island Developing States and territories than anywhere else in the world.

This one-year taught Masters programme is an innovative course dedicated to the understanding and conservation of the biodiversity of islands throughout the world. The programme boasts a significant research component with substantial fieldwork modules in the Channel Islands and Canary Islands, and dissertation options across the globe.

This applied degree provides a number of employability outcomes, including careers in management positions in global conservation NGOs, public conservation government ministries, organisations and departments, as well as technical positions in conservation and sustainability consultancies. This degree also serves as a gateway to a PhD and other academic positions in leading conservation organisations and enterprises in the UK and abroad.

The modules we outline here 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.

Compulsory modules

• Dissertation/Research Project
• Fieldwork Statistics and Experimental Design
• Island Biogeography
• Island Ecology
• Biodiversity and Evolution on Islands
• Invasion and Extinction on Islands
• Global Conservation Strategies and Legislation
• Islands and Climate Change
• Island Conservation in Action

Normally at least a 2:1 Honours degree or equivalent in Biology or a relevant science subject is required, although a 2:2 with relevant experience will be considered.

Applicants with significant, professional work experience seeking an academic qualification or the opportunity to enhance skills or knowledge in this field will also be considered.

Candidates may be asked to attend an interview (which may be by Skype, telephone or video link).

Entry requirements for international students

English language requirements

IELTS
Overall score 6.5. No less than 6.0 in any section.

TOEFL
Overall score 90 with minimum scores of 21 for writing, 21 for listening, 22 for reading and 23 for speaking.

2022/23 entry

UK fees per year:
£14,500 full-time; £7,250 part-time

International fees per year:
£25,500 full-time; £12,750 part-time

Employer-valued skills this course develops
The aim of the degree is to train future leaders, managers and policy makers in island biodiversity and conservation. Through integral collaboration with key players in the field of biodiversity and conservation, this MSc ensures the training you receive will prepare you for immediate employment both in the UK and abroad.