Endangered Species Recovery and Conservation MRes / MSc
- Level(s) of Study: Postgraduate taught
- Start Date(s): September 2023
- Duration: One year full-time or two years part-time
- Study Mode(s): Full-time / Part-time
- Campus: Brackenhurst Campus
-
Entry Requirements:
More information
Introduction:
Delivered in collaboration with the internationally-renowned Durrell Conservation Academy, this postgraduate degree provides you with an international outlook on species recovery. You'll help meet the global need for academically proficient and technically expert individuals, who can bridge the gap between in-situ and ex-situ approaches to conservation.
If you have any questions about our Endangered Species Recovery and Conservation course, you can now chat to our experienced lecturers and course leaders through Unibuddy.
-
Our aim is to provide, wherever possible, opportunities to study at the Durrell Wildlife Conservation (DWCT) International Training Centre in Jersey, where specialist components of the Captive Breeding and Husbandry module can be explored further. -
You can undertake a research project using NTU's links with national and international conservation projects. -
You will have access to our purpose-built Animal Unit which is home to over 250 animals, from 70 different species. You'll have the opportunity to work with the domestic and exotic species found here, as well as out in the natural habitats on the Brackenhurst Campus estate. -
We achieved a 92% student satisfaction rating for full-time MSc / MRes Endangered Species Recovery and Conservation (PTES 2023).
Brackenhurst campus is part of the DEFRA Environmental Stewardship scheme that supports effective environmental management of farm land and countryside estates. Over the years a number of endangered species have been involved in recovery programmes at Brackenhurst including Yellowhammers and Great Crested Newts.
What you’ll study
Supported by legislation in many countries, endangered species recovery represents the recognised scientific approach to the conservation of threatened species by way of a recovery plan. This course aims to develop detailed knowledge and experience of recovery planning, and the skills and knowledge associated with in-situ and ex-situ species recovery.
The combination of theory and practical sessions will enable you to develop a holistic approach to endangered species recovery and conservation.
The two Masters-level degrees offer you the opportunity to undertake an international research project using NTU's links with conservation projects in North America, Sweden and South Africa.
Conservation Priorities
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).
Species Recovery: Theories, Methods and Techniques
Study both the theoretical and applied aspects of successfully recovering species under the threat of extinction. You'll develop an understanding of population dynamics, and the various methods used to facilitate species recovery. Methods covered will include those employed in the removal of invasive species (plant and animal), habitat preparation, modelling, mitigation, inciting public support, reintroduction and translocation, and the ex-situ aspects of conservation unrelated to captive breeding.
In addition, you'll develop the practical applied skills often required for species recovery, such as radio-telemetry, necropsy, scat dietary analysis, surveying methods, and animal capture and handling techniques. Furthermore, this module will specifically address methods of facilitating species recovery, through enhanced dialogue and progressive thinking when consulting with local communities.
Captive Breeding and Husbandry
This module will provide an understanding of the many aspects required to successfully breed endangered species in captivity. Discover the various goals of captive breeding, and develop an awareness of how techniques may differ according to the proposed use of the animals. The module will encompass a broad overview of all areas of knowledge required for the maintenance and reproduction of wild animals ex-situ, such as:
- housing
- nutrition
- health
- enrichment
- contraception for animals to be used in reintroduction or translocation
- rearing, pre-release preparation, and training
Students will also become familiar with industry-related software such as Zootrition®, SPARKS, PMx and ZIMs.
Our aim is to provide, wherever possible, opportunities to study at the Durrell Wildlife Conservation (DWCT) International Training Centre in Jersey, where specialist components of this module can be explored further.
Conservation Genetics
Gain an understanding of the basis of conservation genetics, and how the use of genetic theory and techniques can aid the recovery of threatened species.
You'll cover aspects such as:
- impacts of reduced genetic diversity
- inbreeding and outbreeding depression
- population fragmentation
- loss of gene flow
- genetic drift
- genetic aspects of captive breeding and genetic adaptation to captivity
- forensics
- non-invasive sampling techniques
- the use of genetics to increase knowledge of species biology
Geographical Information Systems (GIS)
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 allows for the monitoring of both the location, and the extent of the 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
Learn advanced skills in 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 present your findings and research in a variety of ways, as well as critically evaluating, interpreting and relaying knowledge gained from secondary sources, to peers.
Research Project
Research in depth a chosen topic area related to endangered species recovery and conservation. 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 Endangered Species Recovery and Conservation course is offered at both MSc and MRes level. The differences between these two courses are as follows:
MSc
The MSc comprises a taught programme of six modules and a research project.
Compulsory modules
- Conservation Priorities
- Captive Breeding and Husbandry
- Conservation Genetics
- Geographical Information Systems (GIS)
- Species Recovery: Theories, Methods and Techniques
- Research Methods and Data Analysis
- Research Project
MRes
The MRes offers three taught modules and provides the opportunity to undertake an extended research project.
Compulsory modules
- Species Recovery: Theories, Methods and Techniques
- Research Methods and Data Analysis
- Research Project (Extended)
Optional modules
You will have the opportunity to select one optional module:
- Conservation Priorities
- Captive Breeding and Husbandry
- Conservation Genetics
- Geographical Information Systems (GIS)
Don’t just take our word for it, hear from our students themselves
Our current students and recent graduates tell you all about their time at NTU and what they've gone on to do next.
Video Gallery
How you’re taught
You'll be taught through a mixture of lectures, seminars, online learning, and practical sessions.
Independent learning is required, and you'll undertake high-quality research for the Masters awards. You'll research your chosen topic in depth, then design and implement a relevant research project, before communicating the findings to an informed audience in a comprehensive scientific report.
Teaching is supported by our Brackenhurst campus - a 200-hectare country estate and working farm. The campus is part of the DEFRA Environmental Stewardship scheme, which supports effective environmental management of farmland and countryside estates. Over the years, a number of rare and endangered species of wildlife have been involved in recovery programmes at Brackenhurst, including yellowhammers and great crested newts.
You will have access to our purpose-built Animal Unit which is home to over 250 animals, from 70 different species. You'll have the opportunity to work with the domestic and exotic species found here, as well as out in the natural habitats on the estate, and further afield on international research projects. You'll also have access to specialised teaching and laboratory facilities.
The academic team who facilitate this course work on endangered species recovery initiatives in several countries, and have established recovery research links in Canada and America, where species recovery is a recognised process supported by government legislation. The team also have links to species recovery programmes in Mauritius, Sweden and South Africa. These links provide opportunities and scope for a wide range of research projects in the field.
Field trip to The Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust
The Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust (DWCT) was founded by author and naturalist Gerald Durrell over 40 years ago with the mission to save species from extinction. Species that have been recovered include the Mauritius kestrel, pink pigeon, echo parakeet and Mallorcan midwife toad. Staff from DWCT work in threatened habitats around the world to protect and conserve many endangered species. With its international headquarters in Jersey, the Trust has built up a worldwide reputation for its pioneering conservation techniques. Today, Durrell continues to develop its overseas work in new areas of the world, with a particular focus on vulnerable communities of endemic animals which make such a valuable contribution to global biodiversity.
Our aim is to provide, wherever possible, opportunities to study at the Durrell Wildlife Conservation (DWCT) International Training Centre in Jersey, where specialist components of the Captive Breeding and Husbandry module can be explored further. In addition, the opportunity may exist during this period for students to explore links for conducting their dissertation project with DWCT staff members.
Please note that field trip locations may vary and are subject to availability and change.
Careers and employability
This course has been designed to enhance employment or research opportunities for graduates from Biology, Conservation, Animal Science degrees.
93% of our postgraduates from the School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences are in work or further study within 15 months of finishing their degrees (of those available for work or study, latest Graduate Outcomes Survey 2020/21).
To enhance your employment prospects NTU has links with organisations including:
- California State University, Stanislaus, Endangered Species Recovery Program, California, USA, Bakersfield, California, USA
- California State University, Bakersfield, California, USA
- California Living Museum (Zoo), Bakersfield, California, USA
- California Department of Fish and Game, California, USA
- Center for Land Management, California, USA
- Institute for Wildlife Studies, California, USA
- Bakersfield College, California, USA
- Mauritius Wildlife Foundation
- Whitley Wildlife Conservation Trust (Paignton Zoo, Living Coats & Newquay Zoo)
- Chester Zoo
- Edinburgh Zoo
- Twycross Zoo
- Chicago Zoological Society, Brookfield Zoo
- Blackfeet Indian Reservation Restoration Project, Dept of Fish, Game & Wildlife, Montana, USA
- Glovers Reef Marine Reserve, Belize
- IUCN Reintroduction Specialist Group
- IUCN Canid Specialist Group
- IUCN hyaena specialist group
- Northwest Parks and Tourism Board, South Africa
- University of Pretoria, South Africa
- Mammal Research Institute, Poland
- Earthwatch Institute
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
The School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences is located at the University's Brackenhurst campus, an idyllic 200-hectare estate in a rural setting approximately 14 miles from Nottingham. It is close to the picturesque minster town of Southwell and has good public transport and road links with Nottingham.
The campus is an ideal study location with bespoke scientific facilities, teaching resources and accommodation. There is a modern Animal Unit which houses over 250 animals representing over 70 different species. The collection consists mainly of domesticated and exotic species, in settings that are as naturalistic as possible. There are specialist teaching rooms within the Animal Unit which contain various research equipment and essential resources to enhance the learning experience. On campus there are also veterinary and equestrian facilities, a working farm including arable and protected crop production, 200 breeding ewes, a poultry unit, and a herd of Lincoln red beef cattle.
Brackenhurst Campus
We have invested over £20 million in our facilities at the Brackenhurst campus over the last few years. Our beautiful 200-hectare estate acts as an outdoor classroom for fieldwork and research. The estate is home to a diverse range of species including kestrels, yellowhammers, hedgehogs, badgers, and great crested newts.
- Home to around 1,700 students and approximately 14 miles from the city centre.
- A beautiful countryside estate with woodland, a lake and landscape gardens.
- Buses every 15-20 minutes throughout the day heading from the campus straight into the heart of the city, giving you the best of both worlds.
- Access to an animal unit housing over 250 animals and representing over 70 different species.
- Veterinary and equestrian facilities.
- A 200 hectare working farm.
- Latest facilities including our high-tech glasshouse.
- New library.
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.
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.
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 2023
Full-time home (UK) tuition fees
£9,300
Part-time home (UK) tuition fees
£4,650*
*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 2023 and January 2024 entry. This discount is currently available for those starting an eligible postgraduate taught, postgraduate research or professional course.
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 2024
For guidance, course fees for September 2023 entry are:
Mode of study | International tuition fee |
Full-time | £16,800 |
Tuition fees are payable for each year that you are at the University. The level of tuition fees for the second and subsequent years of your postgraduate course may increase in line with inflation and as specified by the UK government.
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:
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.
The University's commitment to delivering the educational services advertised.