Master of Science in Animal Behaviour

at University of St Andrews

The course consists of two taught semesters and an independent research project culminating in a written dissertation and poster presentation. The research project takes place during the entire year with particular focus during the last three months from mid-May to mid-August. 

Semester 1 focuses on research skills. Students receive training in statistical analysis and data handling, experimental design and conducting animal behaviour research in the laboratory and in the field, including a residential field trip.

During Semester 2, you will select specialist optional modules in topical areas of research and also further develop your professional communication skills. 

The modular curriculum is designed to be coherent, providing integrated, hands-on training that will provide a strong foundation for students wishing to further their studies (for example, PhD) or for those choosing to pursue research-focused careers.

Teaching takes the form of:

• lectures
• seminars
• debates
• workshops
• tutorials.

Practicals involve lab and field work and computer-based data analysis.

Class sizes usually range from 5 to 30 students, depending on the module. There is a strong focus on small-group teaching so that students are individually supported and can ask for help when it is needed.  

Modules
The modules in this programme have varying methods of delivery and assessment. For more details of each module, including weekly contact hours, teaching methods and assessment, please see the latest module catalogue which is for the 2021–2022 academic year; some elements may be subject to change for 2022 entry.

Semester 1

• During Semester 1, students take two compulsory modules that provide sound training in essential skills for animal behaviour research.
• Mathematical and Statistical Modelling for Biologists: applies mathematical ideas to questions in biology and introduces methods for fitting models to biological data mainly using R software.
• Research Skills for Animal Behaviour: focuses on key skills including experimental design, biologging and telemetry, behaviour genetics, and applications to conservation biology.

Semester 2

• Communication Skills for Animal Behaviour Research: practices key communication skills for modern animal behaviour research, including writing for other scientists, peer review, communicating with the public and outreach.

• A first or upper 2.1 (Honours) undergraduate degree in a biological science. Other science or mathematics degrees may be acceptable. If you studied your first degree outside the UK, see the international entry requirements.
• Evidence of training in advanced mathematics and statistics (at least to UK school SQA Higher, GCE AS or A-Level, International Baccalaureate or equivalent).
• Very good baseline IT skills including word-processing, spreadsheet use, email and internet.

Tuition fees

• Home: £10,395
• Overseas: £25,450

This programme will provide a strong foundation for students wishing to further their studies (for example, MPhil or PhD) or those choosing to pursue careers in animal behaviour. 

The Careers Centre offers one-to-one advice to all students on a taught postgraduate course and, together with the Centre for Educational Enhancement and Development (CEED), offers a programme of events to assist students in building their employability skills.