Ecology & Environmental Monitoring MSc

The global biodiversity crisis and threats to global sustainable development have highlighted the need for specialists in species identification, population monitoring, and conservation. This Masters programme in Ecology & Environmental Monitoring will help you develop essential skills in species identification, taxonomy, and ecology, and to become a catalyst for effective conservation and the preservation of biodiversity across the globe.<br/><br/>**WHY THIS PROGRAMME**<br/>- In a world facing a biodiversity crisis driven by climate change, this programme equips you to make a difference. Youll develop vital skills in species identification, taxonomy and ecology to lead effective conservation, sustainable resource management and global biodiversity preservation efforts.<br/><br/><br/>- Our programme aligns with international commitments such as the Convention on Biological Diversity and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, reflecting the urgency of biodiversity preservation at national, regional, and local levels worldwide.<br/><br/><br/>- Immerse yourself in hands-on fieldwork and lab exercises, taking advantage of our ideal Dumfries Campus location. Collaborate with experts from research, consultancy, conservation, and regulatory bodies, honing your core competencies in taxonomy, identification, and environmental monitoring.<br/><br/><br/>- Our hands-on approach to developing your career-focussed field skills is complemented by research-led courses in ecological theory, plant and animal taxonomy, habitat monitoring, remote sensing, GIS, and more. You’ll leave us understanding what changes to our environment mean, for nature, for environmental management, and for us.<br/><br/><br/>- Benefit from collaborations with specialists from related fields, including external academics and organisations like the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency and Forestry Scotland, ensuring your education is relevant and up-to-date.<br/><br/><br/>- Join our diverse and close-knit community at the Dumfries Campus, offering access to picturesque surroundings, world-class teaching, and excellent placement opportunities. Explore the vibrant arts and cultural scene of Dumfries and enjoy outdoor activities in the scenic Scottish countryside.<br/><br/><br/>**PROGRAMME STRUCTURE**<br/>This programme includes three compulsory courses as well as two optional courses, and either a work placement or dissertation in the summer of the academic year, following completion of the taught courses.<br/><br/>**Core courses**<br/>Taxonomy and population monitoring<br/>Ecology, Environment and Conservation<br/>Research Methods in Environmental Risk and Management<br/>Either Work Placement or Dissertation<br/><br/>**Optional courses**<br/>A Cultural History Of Animals<br/>Environmental Ethics and Behaviour Change<br/>Environmental Politics and Society<br/>Writing the Environment: Modern and Contemporary Nature Writing<br/>Reading the Environment: Old and New World Romanticisms<br/>Environmental Communication<br/>Responding to risks in terrestrial environments<br/>Responding to Risks in Aquatic Environments<br/>Theories, Practice and Policies in Environmental Risk and Management