Global Wildlife Health and Conservation

Entry requirements

An upper second class honours degree (or international equivalent), in a biological, veterinary, zoology or environmental science programme, or a degree with a minimum 50% relevant biology content including modules such as; Whole Organism Biology, Anatomy and/or Physiology, or evidence of Biology training such as A-level Biology grade C+. A research project is required.

We will consider applicants whose grades are slightly lower than the programme's entry requirements, if they have at least one of the following:

• evidence of significant, relevant work experience;
• a relevant postgraduate qualification.

If this is the case, applicants should include their CV (curriculum vitae / résumé) when they apply, showing details of their relevant work experience and/or qualifications.

See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.

Months of entry

September

Course content

This programme aims to give you the knowledge, skills and practical training needed to work with wildlife, and places particular emphasis on wildlife health and conservation on a global scale.

Topics include animal capture and handling techniques; the assessment, stabilisation and transportation of injured animals; methods for improving the welfare of captive animals; concepts in behavioural ecology; endangered species breeding programmes; the reintroduction of captive populations to the wild; practical conservation strategies; and the management of protected areas. The curriculum also delivers a comprehensive introduction to wildlife disease, one health, disease ecology, and surveillance and control. You will also study a foundation in theory and practical use of geographic information systems, spatial analysis and maximum entropy niche modelling using open source QGIS and Maxent software.

The MSc is based at the Bristol Veterinary School in the village of Langford near the Mendip Hills in Somerset, providing convenient access to Exmoor National Park and the rich wildlife habitats of South West England. Many small group workshops and practical sessions take place with the Bristol Zoological Society, allowing you to gain hands-on experience of exotic animal care while working behind the scenes in a modern zoological setting.

In addition to our own community of world-leading experts, students on this course benefit from guest lectures, workshops and seminars delivered by specialist researchers, conservationists, and wildlife veterinarians. These provide valuable networking opportunities that will benefit you in your future career. There are also field visits to important wildlife locations near Bristol.

By the end of the course you will have gained the skills and knowledge to deal with a variety of practical situations that professional wildlife biologists face on a day-to-day basis.

Information for international students

See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.

Fees and funding

Further information on funding for prospective UK and international postgraduate students.