Animal Behaviour Applications for Conservation
Learn how to solve modern conservation problems using animal behaviour research. Gain scientific knowledge and practical skills at ARU in Cambridge.
It's possible to study this course part-time. You'll take the same modules as MSc/MA students, but sometimes in a different order or in different years.
As a part-time student you'll typically study for twice as long as full-time students. For example if the MSc/MA course takes one year, you can expect to study over two years, though for some courses this may vary.
in the region for postgraduates progressing into senior roles.
Source: Graduate Outcomes Survey 2026
Discover how an understanding of animal behaviour can help address global conservation challenges.
By combining behavioural ecology, conservation biology and emerging technologies, this course equips you with practical research, data analysis and science communication skills.
You'll gain hands-on experience applying animal behavioural science to real-world conservation issues alongside expert academics and environmental partners.
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Hear from our staff and students about studying Animal Behaviour Applications for Conservation at ARU.
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![Animal Behaviour Applications for Conservation students and tutors looking for protected species with white buckets in a public garden]()
Hear from our staff and students about studying Animal Behaviour Applications for Conservation at ARU.
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Develop your expertise in animal behaviour through fieldwork, laboratory sessions and conservation projects
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Build career-defining research, technical and analytical skills in behavioural and conservation practice
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Work collaboratively with zoological collections and animal welfare organisations on real-world environmental projects and Live Briefs
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Conduct your major research project with supervision from leading academics from our Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environment
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Enhance your field skills with an optional short course in France hosted by the Mediterranean Ecology Research Observatory for Practical Skills
Study at an award-winning university
We were named Times Higher Education University of the Year 2023. We've also been awarded a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework – a reflection of the outstanding education we offer our students.
Careers
Prepare to apply your understanding of animal behaviour to global conservation challenges.
This course nurtures specialist scientific knowledge alongside practical research, analytical and communication skills valued across the animal and conservation sector.
Through projects, fieldwork, lab sessions and professional networking opportunities, you'll graduate ready for a range of careers in conservation, research and animal science.
Graduation doesn't have to be the end of your time with us. You might decide to continue your academic career and join a research programme at ARU, such as our PhD Biology. Take advantage of our Alumni Scholarship and save £400 on your fees.
Teaching and modules
Explore how animal behaviour research informs modern conservation practice.
You'll learn from internationally recognised experts in behavioural ecology, conservation genetics, animal welfare and global change ecology. Through lectures, workshops, laboratory classes, fieldwork and independent study, you'll develop skills in wildlife monitoring, GIS, genetics and quantitative analysis.
You'll apply your learning to real-world conservation challenges, tailor your studies through specialist options and field courses, and complete an independent research project aligned with your interests and career goals.
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Understand the links between humans and nature conservation in the UK and abroad.
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Learn how we can sustainably manage our land for wildlife.
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Collect data on a range of species in the UK and abroad.
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Learn a range of survey techniques to monitor biodiversity.
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See stunning wildlife on our range of field trips.
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Learn about biodiversity from a range of habitats.
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Learn from experts in the field.
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![A flock of flamingos standing in water]()
Understand the links between humans and nature conservation in the UK and abroad. -
![Back view of a group of students in outdoor gear trekking across a field]()
Learn how we can sustainably manage our land for wildlife. -
![A person setting up a camera trap in woodland]()
Collect data on a range of species in the UK and abroad. -
![Four people setting up a moth trap on a terrace]()
Learn a range of survey techniques to monitor biodiversity. -
![A person behind a safety rail, looking up into trees through binoculars]()
See stunning wildlife on our range of field trips. -
![Two people observing freshwater invertebrates in a tray on a table]()
Learn about biodiversity from a range of habitats. -
![Four people in hiking gear chatting on a wild, grassy hill or mountain]()
Learn from experts in the field.
Modules are subject to change and availability, and may vary by location. If you have the choice of optional modules, these are indicated with a *.
- Technology and Techniques in the Study of Animal Behaviour (30 credits)
- Current Topics in Wildlife Conservation (15 credits)
- Behavioural Ecology and Conservation (15 credits)
- Communication Skills for Conservation (15 credits)
- Research Methods (15 credits)
- Masters Research Project (60 credits)
- Practical Applications of DNA Based Technologies (15 credits) *
- Study Tour: Understanding Biodiversity and Sustainability (15 credits) *
- Sustainable Land Management (15 credits) *
- Applied Animal Behaviour and Animal Welfare *
- Cognition Evolution and Behaviour *
It's possible to study this course part-time. You'll take the same modules as MSc/MA students, but sometimes in a different order or in different years.
As a part-time student you'll typically study for twice as long as full-time students. For example if the MSc/MA course takes one year, you can expect to study over two years, though for some courses this may vary.
Read profiles of teaching and research staff on this course.
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Dr Çağlar AkçayAssociate Professor
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Dr Krishna N. BalasubramaniamSenior Lecturer
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Dr Bas BootsSenior Lecturer
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Dr Peter BrownAssociate Professor
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Dr Paty CelisLecturer
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Professor Dannielle GreenProfessor
Facilities
Study in our state of the art £40m Science Centre in the heart of Cambridge.
You'll have access to specialist facilities supporting animal and environmental biology and use industry-standard GIS and spatial analysis software, well stocked laboratories, field equipment and dedicated teaching spaces including our research labs.
You'll learn beyond campus through residential and local field trips across East Anglia, practical training and opportunities to engage with conservation organisations.
You'll also benefit from ARU's extensive library and digital learning resources and support services.