MSc Business Analytics
The MSc Business Analytics program at the University of Exeter...
MSc Marine Vertebrate Ecology and Conservation
Penryn Campus
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MSc Marine Vertebrate Ecology and Conservation at the University of Exeter is a specialized program designed for students passionate about the conservation of marine vertebrates, including fish, marine mammals, seabirds, and reptiles. This program equips students with advanced knowledge of marine biodiversity, ecological monitoring techniques, and conservation policies. With access to world-leading research groups and partnerships with prominent marine organizations, graduates develop critical skills to address global challenges in marine wildlife conservation, sustainable fisheries management, and ecosystem restoration. The program combines theoretical foundations with practical training, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for careers in marine conservation, research, policy, and environmental consultancy.
Curriculum: The curriculum is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of marine vertebrate ecology and conservation strategies. Core modules typically include Marine Vertebrate Biology and Ecology, Conservation Science and Policy, Applied GIS and Remote Sensing, and Advanced Marine Research Methods. Students gain hands-on experience through field-based courses, laboratory analysis, and statistical modeling of marine ecosystems. The program includes a substantial research dissertation, allowing students to explore critical issues such as habitat degradation, climate change impacts on marine species, and human-wildlife interactions in marine environments. The combination of academic study and practical application ensures students develop expertise in conservation decision-making and marine ecosystem management.
Research Focus: The University of Exeter is internationally recognized for its marine research, particularly through the Exeter Marine Research Group and the Centre for Ecology and Conservation. Faculty members are actively engaged in cutting-edge studies on marine vertebrate behavior, population dynamics, and conservation strategies. Students have the opportunity to collaborate on projects related to marine megafauna conservation, acoustic monitoring of marine species, and the impacts of climate change on marine food webs. The program encourages the use of innovative research methods, including drone surveys, bio-logging technology, and AI-driven data analysis, providing students with valuable experience in modern conservation science.
Industry Engagement: The MSc Marine Vertebrate Ecology and Conservation program fosters strong collaborations with leading conservation organizations, environmental agencies, and research institutions. Students benefit from internships, placements, and guest lectures with partners such as the Marine Conservation Society, Blue Marine Foundation, WWF, Natural England, and the UK Environment Agency. The program also provides opportunities for students to engage in real-world conservation projects, including marine protected area (MPA) management, fisheries assessments, and biodiversity monitoring. These industry connections ensure that graduates gain practical experience and networking opportunities that enhance their career prospects in the marine conservation sector.
Global Perspective: Given the global importance of marine conservation, the program emphasizes international case studies and research collaborations. Students explore conservation challenges in diverse marine environments, from the Arctic to the tropics, examining issues such as overfishing, habitat destruction, and marine pollution. The University of Exeter maintains partnerships with international research institutes and marine conservation initiatives, enabling students to participate in fieldwork across different geographical locations. This global perspective ensures that graduates are well-prepared to contribute to marine conservation efforts on an international scale, whether through research, policy, or direct conservation action.
Location
Penryn Campus
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 29500
Postgraduate Entry Requirements:
Academic Qualifications: International students applying for postgraduate programs at the University of Exeter are typically required to have completed a bachelor's degree or equivalent with a minimum overall score of 55% or above. The specific requirements may vary depending on the chosen program and country-specific grading systems.
English Language Proficiency:
IELTS: The minimum requirement is typically an overall score of 6.5, with no less than 6.0 in each component.
TOEFL: The minimum requirement is typically a score of 90 on the internet-based test (iBT), with no less than 20 in each component.
PTE: The minimum requirement is typically a score of 62, with no less than 62 in each component.
Students must provide:
- academic marksheets & transcripts
- letters of recommendation
- a personal statement - SOP
- passport
- other supporting documents as required by the university.
Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.
It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.
The University of Exeter offers a range of scholarships and financial support options to international students. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, support talented individuals, and promote diversity and inclusivity.
Global Excellence Scholarships: The Global Excellence Scholarships are prestigious scholarships offered to outstanding international students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit and provide a substantial reduction in tuition fees. The value of the scholarships varies, but they can cover up to the full tuition fees for the duration of the program.
International Sanctuary Scholarship: The International Sanctuary Scholarship is designed to support individuals who have sought asylum in the UK. It provides financial assistance to cover tuition fees and living expenses for the duration of the undergraduate program. This scholarship aims to promote access to higher education for talented individuals who have faced significant challenges.
GREAT Scholarships: The University of Exeter participates in the GREAT Scholarships program, which is a joint initiative between the British Council and UK universities. These scholarships are available for students from specific countries and provide financial support for postgraduate studies. The scholarship value varies by country and covers a portion of the tuition fees.
Chevening Scholarships: The University of Exeter is a partner institution for the prestigious Chevening Scholarships. These scholarships are funded by the UK government and provide fully-funded opportunities for outstanding individuals to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK. The scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs.
Sports Scholarships: The University of Exeter offers sports scholarships to talented athletes, both at the undergraduate and postgraduate level. These scholarships recognize excellence in sports performance and provide support in the form of financial assistance, access to sports facilities, coaching, and sports science support.
Subject-Specific Scholarships: Various departments and faculties at the University of Exeter offer subject-specific scholarships for international students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement and may be available for undergraduate, postgraduate, or research programs. The eligibility criteria and scholarship values vary by discipline.
It is important to note that the availability and criteria for scholarships may vary from year to year.
Graduates of the MSc Marine Vertebrate Ecology and Conservation program are well-prepared for diverse career opportunities in conservation organizations, research institutions, environmental agencies, marine industries, and more. The program equips students with specialized skills that are highly valued in marine ecology, conservation biology, and habitat restoration.
Marine Conservation Scientist: Graduates can work as marine conservation scientists, conducting research on marine vertebrate populations and developing conservation plans.
Wildlife Biologist: With expertise in marine vertebrates, graduates can engage in roles focused on studying and monitoring wildlife behavior, populations, and habitats.
Conservation Manager: Graduates can work as conservation managers, overseeing projects and initiatives to protect marine vertebrates and their habitats.
Researcher: Graduates can pursue research roles in academia, think tanks, and research organizations, contributing to advancements in marine vertebrate ecology and conservation.
Marine Education Officer: Graduates can engage in educational roles, raising awareness about marine vertebrate conservation and inspiring the public to take action.
