MSc Animal Behaviour

Learn with expert researchers how the dynamic field of animal behaviour integrates with wider biology and is applied to practical decision-making.

Course overview

From newts to bats, gorillas to cats, there is always more to learn about the mechanisms underlying behaviour. On this course you will get to grips with cutting-edge techniques used by top scientists to uncover the secrets of the natural world. You will explore how our most recent findings can be applied to solve real-world problems, such as in enhancing captive animal management or mitigating the effects of climate change. You will gain an understanding of key ethical dilemmas in the field, have the opportunity to improve your research skills, and explore a topic of interest to you in a personal dissertation project.

Why study this course with us?

At Chester you will learn directly from leaders in the field of animal behavioural research. Regular research seminars and approachable, supportive staff make our department a friendly, welcoming community to students from a range of backgrounds. From hormone assays to genetic analysis, we have the facilities you will need to develop key laboratory skills. Chester is well placed to enable you to hone your field-based skills: nature reserves, zoos and national parks are easily accessible.

Various long-term departmental research projects, both in the UK and abroad, allow a diverse range of dissertation opportunities and your participation in ground-breaking research. Our teaching team also has strong links to industry and your dissertation project could provide you with valuable networking opportunities and experience in a specialist field such as wildlife monitoring or animal management. We have close links with zoos, aquaria, charities and NGOs – invaluable for helping you on your future career path.

There is a key focus on practical applications in this course. Problem-solving skills will be targeted by authentic coursework and you will build a careers portfolio with help from a designated personal tutor. The tasks we set, including science communication, grant application writing, evaluative reports and poster presentations, are both engaging and highly applicable to a range of employment opportunities.