Animal Behaviour

Entry requirements

Normally a 2:1 BSc Honours degree or equivalent in Psychology, Biology or Zoology or a closely related discipline. Due to the nature of the programme we require applicants to have studied and achieved a 2:1 or equivalent in at least two modules on quantitative approaches or research methods, such as statistics, programming, mathematics, or experimental design. A degree in another discipline - such as Ecology, Veterinary Science, Human Biology, Physical Anthropology, Biological Anthropology, or BA Psychology - may be accepted if it includes substantial content in research methodology and statistics.

Months of entry

September

Course content

• MSc Animal Behaviour at Exeter is uniquely situated within the Psychology department, allowing for a specialised focus on animal decision-making processes and welfare, informed by the depth of research on humans.
• Delve into the mechanisms underlying animal behaviour while gaining extensive training in sought-after disciplines like neuroscience, statistics and data science, equipping you with valuable skills and insights highly relevant to today's job market.
• Contribute to cutting-edge behavioural research by undertaking a substantial research project. Gain skills in formulating research questions, experimental design, data analysis, and research communication.
• Acquire the expertise needed to accelerate your career in diverse fields such as research, education, science communication, animal management, and conservation.

The course will give you insights into the varied means of performing animal behaviour research in a wide array of locations with wild and (semi-)captive animals – in field, laboratory, zoo or other human-managed settings.

As part of the taught component you will be exposed to lectures and research talks followed by discussions with speakers. You will boost your knowledge of statistical data analysis and engage in research skill training sessions, helping you to develop skills that are highly sought after in today’s competitive job market. Effective communication of research findings is paramount, and you'll gain hands-on practice of writing for the public through magazine articles and press releases. This practical experience not only enriches your skillset but also prepares you for exciting roles in areas such as scientific media and journalism. We have a strong focus on practical skills, culminating in an environmentally friendly one-week residential field course during the Easter break.

You will be part of the lively, internationally-recognised Centre for Research in Animal Behaviour (CRAB) and will have the opportunity to collaborate with our experienced researchers on a research apprenticeship. A central component of the course, the apprenticeship is a research project that enables you to delve deeper into an area of interest.

You will hone your research skills and gain invaluable experience in writing up research findings for potential publication in academic journals. With our extensive network of external research partners, you can also choose to undertake the apprenticeship under the supervision of researchers at various institutions in the UK and abroad.

Information for international students

International students need to show they have the required level of English language to study this course. The required test scores for this course fall under Profile B2. Please visit our English language requirements page to view the required test scores and equivalencies from your country.

Fees and funding

The University of Exeter has many different scholarships available to support your education, including £5 million in scholarships for international students applying to study with us in the 2025/26 academic year, such as our Exeter Excellence Scholarships*.

For more information on scholarships and other financial support, please visit our scholarships and bursaries page.