MSc Wild Animal Biology

Program Overview

This one-year, full-time program in Wildlife Health and Conservation combines epidemiology, conservation biology, and practical wildlife management techniques. Delivered jointly by the Royal Veterinary College and the Zoological Society of London, it prepares students for careers in wildlife biology, veterinary medicine, conservation science, and research. The program includes hands-on practical sessions, field trips, and an independent research project.

Program Outline

Outline

Program Content

• Epidemiology and disease surveillance
• Health and welfare of captive wild animals
• Conservation biology
• Practical wildlife management techniques
• Research methods and statistics
• Wildlife health interventions
• Disease investigation and surveillance
• Research project

Program Structure

• Full-time, one year program (September to September)
• Term 1: 4 compulsory modules, 2-week orientation
• Term 2: 4 compulsory modules
• Term 3: research project
• Two Campuses: Zoological Society of London (ZSL) and Royal Veterinary College (RVC)

Course Schedule

• Term 1:
• Conservation Science (ZSL)
• Ecosystems Health & Anthropogenic Drivers of Disease Emergence (ZSL)
• Principles of Epidemiology and Surveillance (RVC)
• Research Skills and Statistical Analysis (RVC)
• Term 2:
• Health & Welfare of Captive Wild Animals (ZSL)
• Practical Studies/Rotations (ZSL)
• Wild Animal Health & Conservation Interventions (ZSL)
• Wildlife Disease Investigation & Surveillance (ZSL)

Modules

Term 1:

• Conservation Science (ZSL):
• Focuses on principles of conservation biology and the role of wildlife disease in population declines.
• Ecosystems Health & Anthropogenic Drivers of Disease Emergence (ZSL):
• Explores how human activities impact ecosystem health and contribute to the emergence of wildlife diseases.
• Principles of Epidemiology and Surveillance (RVC):
• Introduces fundamental concepts of epidemiology and surveillance methods for monitoring wildlife health.
• Research Skills and Statistical Analysis (RVC):
• Equips students with research skills, including critical review of literature and data analysis techniques.

Term 2:

• Health & Welfare of Captive Wild Animals (ZSL):
• Addresses the unique health and welfare considerations of wild animals in captivity.
• Practical Studies/Rotations (ZSL):
• Provides hands-on experience working with various wild animal species in zoos and other captive settings.
• Wild Animal Health & Conservation Interventions (ZSL):
• Examines various interventions used to improve wildlife health and promote conservation efforts.
• Wildlife Disease Investigation & Surveillance (ZSL):
• Focuses on practical aspects of disease investigation and surveillance methods in the field.

Assessment

• Coursework: Assignments, essays, presentations, practical assessments
• Examinations: Written exams at the end of each term
• Research Project: Dissertation based on independent research conducted in Term 3

Teaching

• Lectures by leading experts in the field
• Interactive seminars and tutorials
• Hands-on practical sessions and field trips
• Individual supervision for research project

Careers

• Wildlife biologist
• Wildlife veterinarian
• Zoo manager
• Conservation scientist
• Researcher
• PhD student

Other

• The program is jointly delivered by the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) and the Zoological Society of London (ZSL).
• Students benefit from working and studying alongside veterinary graduates taking the MSc in Wild Animal Health.
• The program is offered full-time only.
• The course starts in September each year.

UK Tuition Fees: £15,820 EU and International Tuition Fees: £31,300