Course summary

From evolutionary development to environmental stimuli, animal behaviour is shaped by a range of factors. This masters course is your chance to explore them in detail – not only developing your understanding of the theoretical principles of behaviour, but also learning how to harness these principles to tackle real-world animal welfare and conservation issues. It’s an area that covers a diverse range of disciplines, from a strong numerical approach in the classroom, to a practical approach in the lab and in the field. While the course is built around strong core units, it also offers the flexibility to explore specialist areas, such as genetics and GIS. Above all, this is a course that offers the chance to study animal behaviour up close. As well as a field trip option to a European destination or Tanzania, your dissertation project could take you to Kenya, the Philippines, Madeira or Mauritius (not to mention sites across the UK) for your research.* As well as expert analytical abilities and practical research techniques, you’ll leave us with an in-depth understanding of animal physiology, and how experience and environment combine to create behaviour. All of this knowledge prepares you to pursue a range of career paths, from animal management to education or further research. *All overseas field courses are subject to any international travel restrictions and/or availability. The University follows the latest government guidance and if required, the overseas trip may be replaced with a UK alternative field course. Features and Benefits - Strong links - We work closely with a range of organisations across the UK including the RSPCA, Chester Zoo and Knowsley Safari Park and with overseas bodies such as the Kenya Wildlife Service, ensuring your learning is relevant and impactful. - Investing in your future - We’re transforming our science and engineering campus. Opening in September 2023, our £155 million redevelopment provides a professional study environment with world-class facilities, including a 200 capacity super lab, so you’re well prepared to experience life within a modern industry setting when you graduate. - Learn alongside world-leading researchers - 100% of our research impact from our Ecology and Environment Research Centre is world-leading or internationally excellent and we are ranked 5th in the UK for impact in Environmental Science (REF 2021). - Flexible learning - Make time for research, lab work and independent studies thanks to a flexible course that includes evening lectures, all backed up by our online learning platform, Moodle. - Expert teaching - Learn from a passionate community of teaching staff who bring extensive experience of field research into the classroom to shape your studies. - Overseas fieldwork opportunities - Gain valuable practical experience in ecological and data collection techniques through our Field Course unit, with the opportunity to visit some of the most famous wildlife sites in the world, including the Ngorongoro Crater, and the Serengeti National Park. - Hone your research skills - You’ll have the opportunity to carry out your research in association with staff projects across the world or with partner organisations such as conservation bodies and zoos.