Biological Sciences at UEA
Find out more about studying Biological Sciences at UEA, and browse our other courses.
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UEA is ranked 17th overall for research quality in Biological Science
The Times Higher Education REF 2021 AnalysisSpecialise in conservation ecology on our established MSc course, which provides you with tuition from world-leading experts in Ecology and Conservation from across our Schools of Biological Sciences and Environmental Sciences and from major conservation organisations and institutions such as the RSPB, CEFAS and the Cambridge Conservation Initiative (CCI).
You’ll study core taught modules in ecological survey methods, evidence-based global conservation and statistics, complemented by a broad range of optional modules covering topics including Geographical Information Systems (GIS), practical conservation and work experience, evolutionary biology and conservation genetics, conservation policy and statistical modelling using R.
You’ll then conduct a five-month research project exploring some of the most pressing biodiversity issues within an area of interest to you – often in collaboration with an external conservation organization in the UK or abroad. Many of our research dissertations are subsequently published in peer-reviewed journals (> 60 publications to date), and this CV-boosting feature of our MSc is a major feature of the success of our alumni in gaining PhD places to continue research.
In addition to in-depth exposure to global conservation issues, you’ll develop transferable skills and establish valuable contacts within national and international conservation organisations. These will equip you for progressing to doctoral research, for direct access into conservation-related employment or for pursuing careers in a field such as science communication, education or policy development.
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Find out more about studying Biological Sciences at UEA, and browse our other courses.
Find out moreExamples of careers that you could enter include:
Discover more on our Careers webpages.
You’ll graduate as a skilled conservation ecologist ready to work or continue with doctoral studies nationally or globally, using what you've learned at UEA to make a real difference.
You could go on to a career in many different areas – from ecological research to environmental management, consultancy and conservation. You might also consider education or science communication and engagement. Many of our students progress to PhD study after their Master’s degree.
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
Bachelors degree - 2.2.
Biology-related subject plus evidence of additional conservation experience. Geography and Environmental Management degrees are also acceptable if containing strong ecological component.
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all postgraduate applicants.
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
UK Bachelors degree - 2.2 or equivalent
Biology-related subject plus evidence of additional conservation experience. Geography and Environmental Management degrees are also acceptable if containing strong ecological component.
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 6.0 in Writing and Speaking, and 5.5 in Reading and Listening)
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies(opens in a new window) for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the required English skills.
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all postgraduate applicants.
Tuition fees for the Academic Year 2025/26 are:
UK Students: £13,750
International Students: £26,900
If you choose to study part-time, the fee per annum will be half the annual fee for that year, or a pro-rata fee for the module credit you are taking (only available for Home students).
We estimate living expenses at £1,136 per month.
Further Information on tuition fees can be found here(opens in a new window).
Scholarships and Bursaries
The University of East Anglia offers a range of Scholarships(opens in a new window); please click the link for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of course-related costs.
Applications for Postgraduate Taught programmes at the University of East Anglia should be made directly to the University.
To apply please use our online application form(opens in a new window).
If you would like to discuss your individual circumstances prior to applying, please do contact us:
Postgraduate Admissions Office
Tel: +44 (0)1603 591515
Email: admissions@uea.ac.uk(opens in a new window)
International candidates are also encouraged to access the International Students(opens in a new window) section of our website.
Applied Ecology and Conservation (Part time) starting September 2025 for 2 years