Global Biodiversity and Conservation, MSc

97% of our research outputs have been recognised as world-leading

Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021

A landscape

Course Overview

Whilst studying an MSc in Global Diversity and Conservation, students will explore the complexities of biodiversity, conservation strategies, and ecosystem management. Students will study conservation science, the importance of biodiversity at local to global scales, environmental policy, and core research skills in biodiversity and conservation. Students will develop skills in biodiversity assessment, environmental impact evaluation, wildlife surveys, and project management. This course provides the skills and confidence to work in related fields such as environmental management and conservation.

Did you know?

Our Biosciences Department is internationally recognised for its research which informs Environmental Biology teaching at Swansea University.

  • 97% of our research outputs have been recognised as world-leading and internationally excellent - Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021
  • 100% of the environment was rated as world-leading and internationally excellent - Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021

You will be taught by a range of inspiring biosciences experts. These include Dr Richard Unsworth, an adviser on the BBC’s globally renowned series Blue Planet II; and Professor Emily Shepard, an expert in the movement ecology of wild animals.

Your Global Biodiversity and Conservation Experience

Swansea University is set in an incredible landscape, at the gateway of the Gower, the country's first AONB, and the breathtaking Brecon Beacons. Students will explore these remarkable ecosystems while studying global biodiversity and conservation.

Our state-of-the-art teaching and research facilities include the Centre for Sustainable Aquatic Research, an18 metre catamaran marine survey vessel, and a globally unique visualization centre that displays multi-dimensional information from animal tracking data. Influential connections with organisations such as Natural Resources Wales, The British Mammal Society and The National Wetlands Centre Wales will add value to your studies.

Fieldwork

All students take part in a week-long residential field trip in Wales to unique habitats, gaining hands-on experience in conducting ecology surveys and biodiversity assessments. You will learn to identify species, monitor ecosystems, and apply your knowledge to real-world conservation challenges.

Students have the option to participate in an international field course, either in the Himalayas, studying biodiversity challenges, or to Egypt, where students produce their own conservation and restoration plan for a marine or terrestrial species.

Research Projects

Students will undertake their own research projects, they'll collaborate closely with world-leading scientists embedded within academic research groups. They can tackle diverse questions, from bird flight behavior to parasite dynamics in wild horses to sustainable agricultural practices. Research projects can also focus on local conservation monitoring of rare, or ecologically important species.

With guidance from experts, students will gain invaluable insights while working alongside industry partners like councils, NGOs, and environmental consultancies, offering them the chance to address real-world challenges and contribute meaningfully to the field of biodiversity and conservation.

Global Biodiversity and Conservation Employment Opportunities

A career in biodiversity and conservation opens diverse and exciting paths, from working with NGOs and government agencies to shaping policy or working in the commercial sector. This course provides the current skills that employers seek, ensuring you're well-prepared for impactful roles in protecting and managing our planet's natural resources.

  • Ecologist (RSK: Dubai)
  • PhD Candidate (University of Michigan)
  • Project officer (Amphibian & Reptile Conservation Trust)
  • Benthic taxonomist (Oceanology Ltd)
  • Wildlife and education officer (Ipswich Borough Council)

Modules

The first part of this MSc contains compulsory and optional 20-credit modules on subjects including ecosystems, reviews in biosciences, conservation of aquatic resources and satellite remote sensing. The second part is fully occupied by a 60-credit research project in environmental biology.