Biodiversity Conservation MRes; MSc
About this course
As global pressure on land use intensifies, the demand for skilled environmental surveyors has never been greater. Dive into our postgraduate course in Biodiversity Conservation, tailored to equip you with the expertise demanded by the environmental and ecological sectors. Accredited by the esteemed Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM), our MSc course not only ensures industry recognition but also prepares you to make a meaningful impact on the planet’s future.
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Brackenhurst Campus is the perfect environment to develop the expertise required for a career in biodiversity conservation. A number of protected species are studied on-site including yellowhammers, great crested newts, badgers and hedgehogs. -
The course provides an industry standard approach to career progression into the ecological and environmental consultancy sector. -
You will have the opportunity to contribute to UK and international research projects currently running within the School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences. -
100% of MSc / MRes Biodiversity Conservation students (all routes) would recommend studying at NTU (PTES 2024).
What you’ll study
This course blends cutting-edge research and academic insight with hands-on field surveying skills, preparing you to excel in the fast-paced ecological consultancy industry. Crafted to address the soaring demand for adept conservationists, this programme is your gateway to becoming a proficient practitioner in the field.
You’ll master essential field techniques to conduct biodiversity surveys across varied habitats and protected species and produce industry-standard reports and assessments. But that’s not all – you’ll also have an opportunity to be trained in the use of geographical information systems (GIS) - a pivotal tool for environmental surveying and management.
Your practical skills will be backed by a deep understanding of conservation priorities shaped by law and policy, empowering you to think critically, evaluate your work and effectively communicate your findings to key stakeholders. Join us as we cultivate the next generation of conservation leaders ready to tackle the challenges of our ever-changing planet.
If you have any questions about the MSc / MRes Biodiversity Conservation course, you can contact the course leader Dr Esther Kettel.
Conservation Priorities
(20 credit points)
This module aims to integrate the disciplines concerning the conservation of species and habitats, to provide a thorough basis of knowledge. From this, you'll develop a coherent approach to the specialist taxonomic and surveying techniques, and the legal framework behind these. You'll study in detail the five major threats to species on the planet (climate change, habitat loss and fragmentation, invasive alien species, human wildlife conflict and exploitation).
Vegetation Survey and Assessment
(20 credit points)
Develop a comprehensive understanding of the principles and methods used to study and evaluate plant communities in various ecosystems. You’ll gain the necessary skills to conduct vegetation surveys and assess the health, diversity, and dynamics of vegetation in different environments. You’ll also learn how to apply your knowledge to address real-world ecological challenges related to vegetation management and conservation.
Environmental Assessment and Consultancy
(20 credit points)
Gain a thorough and detailed knowledge of the identification and taxonomy of plant species, including the methods used to map habitats such as Phase 1 surveys. Examine the role of consultant ecologists and the consultancy process, including project management, client liaison, legislation, mitigation and reporting.
Protected Species Surveying
(20 credit points)
Gain a detailed knowledge of the identification and taxonomy for a range of protected species. You'll also gain the skills and knowledge to carry out and evaluate the different methods used to survey and record species distribution and abundance. Many of the survey techniques demonstrated in this module are applicable internationally.
Geographical Information Systems (GIS)
(20 credit points)
GIS is an important tool for monitoring biodiversity, and can be used to store, manipulate, analyse and present large amounts of spatial and attribute data - data that can be used to target surveys and monitoring schemes. Data collected during field surveys and from remotely sensed images taken into GIS allow the monitoring of both the location and extent of change. In this module, you'll explore the application of GIS and Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) technology within biodiversity conservation.
Research Methods and Data Analysis
(20 credit points)
Learn advanced skills in the interpretation of quantitative and qualitative research data relevant to whole-organism biology, and develop a critical understanding of the ethical considerations involved in the collection of data. You'll be able to present findings of scientific research in a variety of appropriate ways, as well as critically evaluating, interpreting and relaying knowledge gained from secondary sources, to peers.
Research Project
(MRes 120 credit points, MSc 60 credit points)
Research a chosen topic area related to biodiversity conservation in depth. Design and implement a relevant research project with a strong aspect of originality. Communicate the findings to an informed audience in a comprehensive scientific report.
Our Biodiversity Conservation course is offered at two levels - two Masters degrees (MSc and MRes).
MSc
The MSc comprises a taught programme of six modules, and a research project.
MRes
The MRes offers three taught modules, and provides the opportunity to undertake an extended research project.
| Modules | MRes | MSc |
|---|---|---|
| Conservation Priorities | Included | Included |
| Vegetation Survey and Assessment | Optional* | Included |
| Environmental Assessment and Consultancy | Optional* | Included |
| Protected Species Surveying | Optional* | Included |
| Geographical Information Systems (GIS) | Optional* | Included |
| Research Methods and Data Analysis | Included | Included |
| Research Project | Included | Included |
*Choose one of the optional modules.
We regularly review and update our course content based on student and employer feedback, ensuring that all of our courses remain current and relevant. This may result in changes to module content or module availability in future years.
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How you're taught
Your postgraduate journey will be enriched through a diverse array of engaging lectures, interactive seminars, in-depth fieldwork, and online learning. You’ll complete your degree with a wealth of experience, knowledge and skills to be a well-rounded, in-demand graduate.
Independent learning plays a key role in the programme. You’ll be expected to delve deeply into your chosen area of interest, learning how to undertake a high-quality research project as part of your Masters award. This is your opportunity to, under supervision of our academics, design and implement scientific research.
Our 200-hectare rural campus offers a unique learning environment where you will put theory into practice and gain hands-on ecology and conservation experience. We utilise this outdoor classroom in many of our modules, for example, by undertaking species and habitat surveys across the campus.
You’ll also have the opportunity to visit conservation sites to conduct protected species surveys, which previously have included visits to Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust sites, to gain practical insights into biodiversity surveying and conservation management. There are also exciting opportunities to take your learning and development further afield, completing a research project in the wider UK or abroad.
The academic team delivering your course is actively involved in conservation initiatives across the globe, with established research collaborations in South America (including Mexico and Brazil), South Africa, Kenya, Uganda, and Europe. These strong international links open the door to a diverse range of research opportunities, allowing you to gain exposure to some of the most ecologically rich and complex environments in the world: invaluable for research projects.
By combining rigorous academic study with practical experience and global research opportunities, this course offers a unique platform for you to develop expertise and carve the ideal stepping stones to a rewarding career in your chosen industry.
Please note that field trip locations may vary and are subject to availability and change.
Careers and employability
This course has been developed with representatives from the ecological consultancy and environmental management sector, and is designed to be vocationally relevant, cultivating expertise and transferable skills to maximise your career potential.
Graduates of the Masters in Science degree have the knowledge and skills required to carry out biodiversity surveying, recording and reporting in the private, public, charity, education or research sectors. Skills development include project management, critical evaluation and communicating to a variety of audiences.
CPD: Professionals working in industry take the part-time day-release study route offered on this course as part of their career development through company sponsorship.
The diverse and expanding range of job roles include:
- Environmental or ecological consultant
- Biological surveyor
- Species officer
- Reserve warden
- Education officer
- Expedition leader
- PhD researcher.
100% of our MRes / MSc Biodiversity Conservation graduates are in work or further study within 15 months of finishing their degrees (of those available for work or study, latest Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021/22).
Research project: UK or abroad
Postgraduate students can undertake a research project in a chosen area of interest. This can be undertaken at Brackenhurst campus or elsewhere in the UK or abroad.
The School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences has many excellent links to partner organisations, conservation projects and academic institutions across the world.
Re:search Re:imagined
To us, research is about more than writing papers and proposing new ideas. By daring to think differently, we’re disrupting the research landscape and finding the answers to the questions that really matter. From conservation management to sustainable farming, we’re inspiring the brightest minds to rise up and find solutions to some of the most significant global challenges facing society.
NTU Enterprise
You'll also have the opportunity to turn your ideas into a viable business with help from NTU Enterprise, NTU's purpose-built Centre for Entrepreneurship and Enterprise, a support centre to help students create, develop and grow their own businesses.
Campus and facilities
As a dedicated home for our animal, rural and environmental science courses, the Brackenhurst Campus has a character all of its own. From the population of almost 2,000 students and staff to the animals themselves — cats and cattle, sheep and horses — it’s all about community. Relax with a coffee in the Orangery; kick back with your coursemates in the Brack Bar; enjoy the peace and quiet of our Victorian walled garden or Eco-Library; grab a pal and wander through 500 acres of stunning countryside.
Immerse yourself in an unparalleled learning environment at Brackenhurst Campus; a vast 200-hectare country estate and working farm. As part of the DEFRA Environmental Stewardship scheme, the campus exemplifies effective environmental management of farmland and countryside estate.
The estate boasts an impressive range of habitats and species, including great crested newts, badgers, bats, ancient hedgerows and ponds, providing the perfect environment to master surveying techniques and species sampling. Here, amidst the tranquillity of nature, you’ll experience theory come to life as you delve into hands-on learning experiences. From bird ringing to small mammal trapping and monitoring, you’ll actively engage in conservation projects.
Our Brackenhurst Campus sits on the doorstep of Southwell: a picture-perfect market town filled with rustic pubs, cosy cafés, and boutique shops. A little further afield, and served by reliable buses that run late into the night, you’ve got Nottingham — one of Britain’s top 10 student cities, and one of Europe’s top 25. It’s stuffed with history, culture, and well-kept secrets to discover at your leisure: enjoy lush green spaces, galleries, hidden cinemas and vintage shopping by day, and an acclaimed food, drink and social scene by night.
Entry requirements
What are we looking for?
MRes
- A minimum of a 2:1 or equivalent honours biological sciences degree.
MSc
- A minimum of a 2:2 or equivalent honours biological sciences degree.
We specify these minimum entry requirements, but we will assess you individually on your ability to benefit from the course. We sometimes offer places on the basis of non-standard entry qualifications, and industrial or professional experience.
Getting in touch
If you need any more help or information, please contact us at Ask NTU or call on +44 (0)115 848 4200.
NTU may admit a student with advanced standing beyond the beginning of a course, through an assessment of that student's prior learning, whether it is certificated or uncertificated. Our Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Transfer Policy outlines the process and options available to these prospective students, such as recognising experiential learning or transferring to a similar course at another institution, otherwise known as credit transfer.
All prospective students who wish to apply via Recognition of Prior Learning should initially contact the central Admissions and Enquiries Team who will be able to support you through the process.
Getting in touch
If you need more help or information, get in touch through our enquiry form
What are we looking for?
MRes
- A minimum of a 2:1 or equivalent honours biological sciences degree.
MSc
- A minimum of a 2:2 or equivalent honours biological sciences degree.
We specify these minimum entry requirements, but we will assess you individually on your ability to benefit from the course. We sometimes offer places on the basis of non-standard entry qualifications, and industrial or professional experience.
Student visas
Following an update to the immigration rules in January 2024, if you intend to study in the UK on a Student visa, you can only bring your partner / children (‘dependants’) if you are studying one of the following:
- a PhD or other doctorate (RQF8)
- a research-based higher degree.
Please note that all of our MRes courses are classed as ‘postgraduate taught’ and therefore do not meet the requirement for you to be accompanied to the UK by your dependants.
International qualifications
We accept qualifications from all over the world – check yours here:
Postgraduate preparation courses (Pre-Masters)
If you don’t yet meet our entry requirements, we offer Pre-Masters courses through our partner Nottingham Trent International College (NTIC), based on our City Campus:
English language entry requirements
You can meet our language requirements by successfully completing our pre-sessional English course for an agreed length of time, or by submitting the required grade in one of our accepted English language tests, such as IELTS:
Would you like some advice on your study plans?
Our international teams are highly experienced in answering queries from students all over the world. We also have members of staff based in Vietnam, China, India and Nigeria and work with a worldwide network of education counsellors.
- Complete this simple form to keep in touch with the International Office.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees for September 2025
Mode of study | Home (UK) tuition fee |
Full-time | £9,900 |
Part-time* | £4,950 |
*please note that if you are considering a course that runs over more than one year, the tuition fee stated is for the first year of study. The course fee for the second year may be subject to annual review.
Funding your studies
Preparing for the financial side of student life is important, but there's no need to feel anxious and confused about it. We hope that our fees and funding page will answer all your questions.
Scholarships
You might be able to get a scholarship to help fund your studies. We award scholarships to those students who can demonstrate excellent achievement, passion and dedication to their studies.
Alumni Discount
We're happy to be able to offer a 20% alumni discount to most current NTU students and NTU alumni for September 2024 and January 2025 entry. This discount is currently available for those starting an eligible postgraduate taught, postgraduate research or professional course.
Field trips
Non-residential UK day excursions are included in the tuition fee. You will be charged a maximum of 20% of the price per student cost for any compulsory residential trips or courses in the UK, as a contribution towards travel, accommodation and entrance fees where applicable. For example, a typical 5-day UK residential field trip cost would be approx. £500 per student, and we would ask for a £100 contribution from students. You will be charged a maximum of 30% of the price per student cost for any compulsory overseas residential courses, as a contribution towards travel, accommodation and associated trip fees where applicable. For example, a typical 6-day residential overseas field trip cost would be approx. £600 per student, and we would ask for a £180 contribution from students. Other non-compulsory field trip opportunities, in the UK and abroad, may also be offered, and these will be charged at 80% cost to students. A valid passport and any associated visas will also be required for field trips outside of the UK.
Getting in touch
For more advice and guidance, you can contact our Student Financial Support Service on +44 (0)115 848 2494 or for Scholarship help please contact us on +44 (0)115 848 4460.
Tuition fees for September 2025
Mode of study | International tuition fee |
Full-time | £17,850 |
Please note that if you are considering a course that runs over more than one year, the tuition fee stated is for the first year of study. The course fee for the second year may be subject to annual review.
Scholarships
We offer scholarships of up to 50% of your tuition fee. You can apply for your scholarship when you have an offer to study at NTU.
Living costs
Get advice on the cost of living as an international student in Nottingham and how to budget:
Paying fees
Find out about advanced payments, instalment plan options and how to make payments securely to the University:
Field trips
Non-residential UK day excursions are included in the tuition fee. You will be charged a maximum of 20% of the price per student cost for any compulsory residential trips or courses in the UK, as a contribution towards travel, accommodation and entrance fees where applicable. For example, a typical 5-day UK residential field trip cost would be approx. £500 per student, and we would ask for a £100 contribution from students. You will be charged a maximum of 30% of the price per student cost for any compulsory overseas residential courses, as a contribution towards travel, accommodation and associated trip fees where applicable. For example, a typical 6-day residential overseas field trip cost would be approx. £600 per student, and we would ask for a £180 contribution from students. Other non-compulsory field trip opportunities, in the UK and abroad, may also be offered, and these will be charged at 80% cost to students. A valid passport and any associated visas will also be required for field trips outside of the UK.
Would you like some advice on your study plans?
Our international teams are highly experienced in answering queries from students all over the world. We also have members of staff based in Vietnam, China, India and Nigeria and work with a worldwide network of education counsellors.
- Complete this simple form to keep in touch with the International Office.
How to apply
Ready to join us? Just click the Apply button at the top of the page and follow our step-by-step guide. You can apply for this course throughout the year. Most of our postgraduate and professional courses are popular and fill up quickly though, so apply as soon as you can.
Writing your application
Be honest, thorough and persuasive in your application. Remember, we can only make a decision based on what you tell us. Make sure you include as much information as possible, including uploading evidence of results already achieved, as well as a personal statement.
Keeping up to date
After you’ve applied, we’ll be sending you important emails throughout the application process - so check your emails regularly, including your junk mail folder.
Getting in touch
If you need any more help or information, please contact us at Ask NTU or call on +44 (0)115 848 4200.
Apply online through our NTU applicant portal.
Application advice
Apply early so that you have enough time to prepare – processing times for Student visas can vary, for example. After you've applied, we'll be sending you important emails throughout the application process – so check your emails regularly, including your junk mail folder.
Writing your personal statement
Be honest, thorough, and persuasive – we can only make a decision about your application based on what you tell us:
Would you like some advice on your study plans?
Our international teams are highly experienced in answering queries from students all over the world. We also have members of staff based in Vietnam, China, India and Nigeria and work with a worldwide network of education counsellors.
- Complete this simple form to keep in touch with the International Office.
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