How will I learn?
This course can be studied one year full-time or two years part-time. When studied full-time, the course is divided into three semesters. During the first two semesters, students complete 120 taught credits (usually six 20-credit modules), which are delivered primarily through lectures, practical, workshops, fieldwork, field visits and seminars.
During the final semester (June to September), you will complete your dissertation and will arrange your level of contact with your assigned dissertation supervisor.
What will I learn?
In the first two semesters, you will study a number of core modules, covering topics such as Fundamentals of Biodiversity, Environmental Management and Conservation Biology, Research Methods in the Biosciences, Ecological Monitoring and Introduction to Environmental Law and EIA. In semester one, you can choose either Fundamentals of Remote Sensing and GIS or Frontiers in the Biosciences.
You will also undertake a research training module which will give you a strong grounding in statistical techniques and analytical approaches to biological investigations, and will enhance your research skills and techniques in preparation for your dissertation undertaken in Semester 3 (June to September).
Throughout the course, a strong emphasis is placed on student-centred study. This culminates in the Masters dissertation, a key part of the course which allows you to pursue specific areas of interest.
How will I be assessed?
Assessment is via a mix of written assignments: case studies, essays, research projects, seminar presentations and online assignments. Successful submission of the dissertation in the final semester leads to the award of an MSc.