Evolutionary Behavioural Science MSc by Research

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The MSc Evolutionary Behavioural Science by Research at Middlesex University equips students with a comprehensive understanding of evolutionary theory and its application in scientific research. Through workshops and an independent research project culminating in a thesis, students develop advanced research skills and prepare for diverse career paths in academia, industry, and beyond. The program emphasizes individualized learning experiences and provides career support to enhance students' success in the job market.

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Degree Overview:

Overview:

The MSc Evolutionary Behavioural Science by Research at Middlesex University introduces students to the core evolutionary theory and its application in generating testable scientific hypotheses. It features a unique, research-based structure, focused on independent research and culminating in a final thesis. This MSc prepares students for novel application areas by equipping them with individually tailored learning experiences to excel in both the academic and job market sectors.

Objectives:

• Equip students with a comprehensive understanding of core evolutionary theory, from Darwinism to behavioral ecology, game theory, and beyond.
• Guide students in applying theoretical knowledge to formulate testable scientific hypotheses.
• Immerse students in the research community through workshops before culminating in an independent research project.
• Provide individually tailored learning experiences to help students excel in diverse career paths.

Program Description:

This MSc program adopts a unique approach by focusing on research-based learning and culminating in an independent research project. This approach allows students to dive deep into specific areas of interest within evolutionary behavioral science.

Program Structure:

The program primarily consists of workshops culminating in an independent research project and final thesis.

Workshops:

The program features a series of workshops that cover various aspects of evolutionary behavioral science and research methodology. These workshops include:

• Ethology: This workshop delves into the foundational works of renowned figures like Konrad Lorenz and Niko Tinbergen, exploring models of instinct and evolution.
The workshop also focuses on the methods used in this field.
• Evolutionary Theory: This workshop examines the concept of evolution as a transformative process driven by natural selection and genetic drift.
It explores the development of evolutionary theory from Darwin's work to the Modern Synthesis and contemporary debates in evolutionary developmental biology. Examples primarily focus on the behavioral phenotype, but also encompass non-behavioral aspects when relevant.
• Observational Methods 1: This workshop focuses on developing skills in collecting and analyzing behavioral data.
It covers topics such as behavioral catalogues, ethograms, sample coverage, field practice, and the use of Observer XT software.
• Observational Methods 2: Students design and execute short data collection protocols, focusing on the collected data and appropriate statistical analysis techniques.
• Field Trip: A two-week field trip to Lundy, an island off the north Devon coast, provides students with the opportunity to collect data for their thesis project and apply their learned skills.
The trip involves fieldwork, evening seminars, and discussions based on each day's work. Students can also contribute to ongoing projects on the island.

Independent Research Project and Thesis:

Students conduct their independent research project, culminating in a final thesis of approximately 30,000 words. The research project focuses on a specific area of interest within evolutionary behavioral science. Students receive guidance from two independent examiners who evaluate the dissertation.

Assessment:

Assessment primarily focuses on the final thesis, which is evaluated by two independent examiners. The thesis is expected to be approximately 30,000 words in length. Following the evaluation, students present an oral defense of their work.

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, presentations, seminars, webinars, one-to-one tutorials, and group projects. Workshops and lab sessions are also incorporated when possible.

Faculty:

The program is taught by experienced academics and industry partners with expertise and professional experience in evolutionary behavioral science.

Unique Approaches:

The program's unique approach emphasizes independent research and culminates in a final thesis. This approach allows students to delve into specific areas of interest and develop their research skills. The program also provides individually tailored learning experiences to help students excel in their chosen career paths.

Careers:

Career Paths:

The program prepares graduates for diverse career paths within the field of evolutionary behavioral science and beyond. Some graduates have pursued careers in management, consultancy, lab supervision, and international roles in hospitals, schools, and universities. Many graduates become cellular pathologists, working alongside doctors to analyze patient samples and provide diagnostic and treatment recommendations. Other career paths include research positions in medical or pharmaceutical labs, developing new diagnostic and treatment techniques for diseases, or working in diagnostic laboratories within public or private sectors. The program also equips graduates for further study at the doctoral level or careers in academia, education, biotechnology, patent law, forensic science, or science journalism. Graduates can also find opportunities in public health, medical research, and health and safety organizations.

Career Outcomes:

The university reports that 95% of its postgraduate students find employment or continue their studies upon graduation.

• The program is offered on a full-time or part-time basis.
• The program is delivered on-campus.
• The program's start date is September 2024.
• The program length is 1 year for full-time study and 2 years for part-time study.
• The program cost for UK students is £5,100 for full-time study and £14,400 for international students.

UK students1 Full-time students: £10,500 Part-time students: £70 per credit Part-time students: £35 per dissertation credit International students2 Full-time students: £16,800 Part-time students: £1112 per credit Part-time students: £56 per dissertation credit