MA English Literature
The MA in English Literature at the University of Reading offers a comprehensive and im...
MSc Ecological Survey Skills with Placement
Reading
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
This one-year full-time program blends academic learning with practical experience through a placement in a professional ecological surveyor role. The program is designed to provide students with the essential skills needed for ecological field surveys, data collection, analysis, and report writing. It prepares students for a wide range of careers in environmental consultancy, conservation, and ecological research. The combination of theoretical knowledge and fieldwork ensures graduates are ready for the professional demands of the ecological industry.
Curriculum: The curriculum focuses on developing both theoretical and practical skills in ecological survey techniques. The program includes modules that cover ecological principles, survey methods for habitats and species, statistical analysis of ecological data, and the legal and policy frameworks related to environmental conservation. Students will also undertake a substantial research project during their placement, working on real-world ecological surveys. This practical component is crucial for gaining industry experience and understanding the nuances of ecological work in different environments.
Research Focus: Students are encouraged to focus on areas of research that are pertinent to current ecological challenges, such as biodiversity conservation, habitat restoration, and the impacts of climate change on ecosystems. Research projects often involve fieldwork, data collection, and analysis in both terrestrial and aquatic environments. This allows students to gain expertise in ecological surveying methods while also contributing to ongoing research in ecological conservation and management.
Industry Engagement: The placement element of the MSc is one of its standout features, providing students with direct experience in ecological consultancy or environmental conservation. The University of Reading collaborates with a range of industry partners, including environmental consultancies, conservation organizations, and governmental bodies. This ensures that students gain relevant, hands-on experience in professional ecological surveying, which is invaluable for securing employment after graduation.
Global Perspective: While the program focuses on UK-based ecological surveys, it also provides a broader perspective on global ecological issues. Students learn about ecological survey techniques that are applicable worldwide, allowing them to adapt to different environments and challenges in global conservation and environmental management efforts. The program’s emphasis on biodiversity, habitat conservation, and environmental legislation reflects global concerns regarding ecological sustainability.
Location
Reading
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 25850
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 88.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 69.
- DET Academic: A minimum overall score of 125.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Reading offers a variety of scholarships for international students to support academic excellence and financial needs.
Vice-Chancellor Global Scholarship Award: Merit-based scholarship for high-achieving international students. Covers partial tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
Subject-Specific Scholarships: Offered by individual departments based on academic excellence and course selection. Examples include scholarships in Business, Law, Agriculture, and Science.
Chevening Scholarships: A UK government-funded scholarship for outstanding students from eligible countries. Covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
Commonwealth Scholarships: Available for students from Commonwealth nations pursuing a master's or PhD. Covers tuition fees, airfare, and a monthly stipend.
Great Scholarships: A collaboration between the British Council and UK universities. Provides funding of up to £10,000 for postgraduate students from selected countries.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Scholarships tailored for students from specific countries, including India, China, and the USA. Criteria vary based on nationality and academic performance.
Alumni Discount for Postgraduate Students: If you are a University of Reading graduate, you may be eligible for a tuition fee discount for further studies.
Graduates of this program are well-prepared for various roles.
Ecological Consultants: Providing expert advice on environmental assessments, habitat management, and biodiversity conservation to private firms and governmental agencies.
Field Ecologists: Conducting on-site ecological surveys, species identification, and habitat assessments for environmental consultancies and research organizations.
Conservation Officers: Developing and implementing strategies for the protection and management of natural habitats and wildlife within conservation organizations and NGOs.
Environmental Compliance Specialists: Ensuring that projects and developments adhere to environmental regulations and sustainability standards in various industries.
Research Scientists: Engaging in ecological research projects, contributing to scientific knowledge on species, ecosystems, and environmental changes.
