Zoo Conservation Biology

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.

Watch a video of zoo conservation alumna, Maggie, to learn about what she has been up to since graduation and how her degree has helped her along the way.

Career prospects