Course summary

Zoos play a crucial role in animal conservation. Whether they’re carrying out important research into animal behaviour and welfare, taking part in breeding programmes, educating the public or advising policymakers, they are important players in international conservation. By studying our masters in Zoo Conservation Biology, you can play your part too. You’ll develop expertise in the science which underpins the management and maintenance of captive populations and explore the links with species conservation on a worldwide scale. The main core unit is Zoo Conservation, which we deliver with the help of our partners at Chester Zoo – giving you access to the zoo’s collections and facilities. Within the course, you can participate in a field course in Europe or East Africa* or apply for a three-month work placement at a zoo or aquarium. Other core units, delivered at our Manchester campus, include Practical Techniques and Analysis, Statistics and Research Design and Organismal Genetics. Amongst a wide range of option units, you’ll also have the chance to specialise in subjects like species recovery and behavioural biology. This all then feeds back into your research project, where you’ll combine your own data collection with background research and data analysis and communicate your findings in a comprehensive dissertation. *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:

• Learn on location at Chester Zoo – The course is delivered in association with the North of England Zoological Society at Chester Zoo, giving you key access to the zoo’s collections and facilities.

• Gain practical experience on a work placement – You can apply to spend three months at an accredited zoo or aquarium in the UK, with the possibility to also carry out your research project there.

• Excellent on-site research facilities – We have state-of-the-art laboratory and aquaria facilities. We are also home to one of the UK’s only university-based Amphibian Conservation Research Facilities, which works with zoos to determine the best way to keep amphibians in captivity and halt their ongoing decline.

• 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.

• 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 organisations and zoos.

• 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).

• Investing in your future – We’re transforming our science and engineering campus. Opening in 2023, our multi-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.

• Overseas fieldwork opportunities – If you opt for one of our field courses you can gain valuable practical experience in ecological and data collection techniques with the opportunity to visit some of the most famous wildlife sites in the world, including the Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti National Park.