Course summary
Wild animal health has become increasingly popular among non-veterinarians with a first degree in zoology and biology. Recognising this, the RVC, University of London, together with the Zoological Society of London, has developed a unique course aimed at non-veterinary biological science graduates and leading to the MSc in Wild Animal Biology. The course will provide you with practical exposure to wild animal species and an understanding of wild animal health, welfare and conservation, as well as providing training in research methods relevant to the study of wildlife. You will benefit from learning from internationally renowned experts in their field. Programme delivery The MSc in Wild Animal Biology is completed over one year of full-time study. The course starts in mid-September each year, and can be broken down broadly into three sections, comprising two groups of taught modules and a research project. The first section is completed by mid-January, the second by mid-May, and the MSc research project is undertaken during the summer months, finishing in mid-September. More detailed information can be found in the course outline (see link in the top left of the page). We deliver the programme through two terms of lectures, seminars, tutorials and problem-based learning, with modular examinations. There are no part-time or distance-learning options available. To enquire about the exact start date please email [email protected]. What will I learn? During the programme you will acquire:
- A critical awareness of current problems in wildlife disease with implications for wildlife conservation and welfare·
- A new insight into veterinary interventions for the management of captive and free-living wild animals·
- A systematic understanding of the biological principles underpinning wild animal conservation and management, and the epidemiology, diagnosis and control of wildlife disease·
- Basic competence in veterinary techniques and preventative medicine for wild animals·
- A conceptual and practical understanding of how established techniques of research and enquiry are used to create knowledge in the field of wild animal health·
- A comprehensive understanding of scientific skills, including critical review of the scientific literature, and design and analysis of laboratory or field studies.
Entry requirements
Applicants must have (or expect to receive) a UK university first or second class Honours degree or international equivalent in a Science-based subject. Preference is given to candidates with (or on track to achieve) first or upper second class Honours, but applications are encouraged from candidates with lower second class Honours and relevant experience. Applicants who meet the academic criteria will be assessed based on their personal statement. Personal statements are assessed on commitment to work in research and conservation of captive and free-living animals and make a difference in global conservation outcomes through sustaining healthy captive and free-living wild animal populations. Evidence of an applicant’s commitment will be assessed on, but not restricted to, work experience (including voluntary), leadership roles, research, courses attended, internships, conferences and memberships. Please contact Admissions if you are unsure whether your degree is equivalent.
English language requirements
IELTS (Academic) 7.0 with no less than 6.5 in each component. See URL for alternatives.
https://www.rvc.ac.uk/study/international-students/english-language-requirements
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
EU | £33650 | Year 1 |
England | £17010* | Year 1 |
Northern Ireland | £17010* | Year 1 |
Scotland | £17010* | Year 1 |
Wales | £17010* | Year 1 |
Channel Islands | £17010* | Year 1 |
International | £33650 | Year 1 |
*This is a provisional fee and subject to change.
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
Provider information
Royal Veterinary College, University of London
Royal College Street
Westminster
NW1 0TU