Program Overview
It combines biology and geology, equipping students with analytical, quantitative, and research skills. Graduates have pursued careers in academia, museum curation, science communication, and various industries.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
This interdisciplinary MSc program in Palaeobiology is designed for students passionate about early life, mass extinctions, macroevolution, climate change, and fossil preservation. It bridges the biology-geology divide, providing a strong foundation for independent research at the PhD level or careers in museum curation, science education, science policy, management, or the media.
Outline:
The program consists of lectures, practical classes, tutorials, and visiting speakers in the first part, providing a firm foundation in the theory and methodology of the subject.
Teaching:
The program is taught by Bristol's established palaeobiology research group, engaging students in current debates in evolution, systematics, and palaeobiology. Students learn to analyze problems quantitatively and design experimental approaches to resolving questions in macroevolution and the study of both ancient and living organisms.
Careers:
Graduates of the program pursue academic careers, usually starting with a PhD. The program's focus on methods and the latest quantitative and analytical techniques makes graduates highly sought after by PhD supervisors worldwide. The training in professional skills, including writing scientific papers, is also highly regarded. Other career paths include museum curation, science policy, the media, science education, marketing, consultancy, industry, and computing.
Other:
- The program provides opportunities to develop a wide range of professional skills, including research planning, problem-solving, and communication.
- Students learn to present palaeontological data through talks, visual displays, and formal written reports.
- They also develop computing skills in data handling, phylogenetics, macroevolution, function, and 3D digital modeling.
- A key aspect of the program is preparing the research project for publication, with many previous students' projects published in leading international journals.
- Recent research project topics include the origin of cellular life, the preservation of colors in dinosaurs, and the evolution of culture in humans.
Tuition Fees
UK: full-time £13,100 per year UK: part-time (two years) £6,550 per year Overseas: full-time £29,600 per year For programs that last longer than one year, please budget for up to an 8% increase in fees each year.
Bench fees
£540. Confirmation of bench fees will be stated in the offer letter sent to applicants.
University of Bristol Summary
Overview:
The University of Bristol is a renowned public research university located in Bristol, England. It is known for its high academic standards, strong research output, and vibrant campus life. The university is ranked among the top universities in the world and the UK, consistently attracting top students and researchers.
Services Offered:
The University of Bristol offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Undergraduate and Postgraduate Programs:
A diverse selection of academic programs across various disciplines.Accommodation:
On-campus and off-campus housing options for students.Students' Union:
A dedicated student organization providing support, activities, and representation.Library:
Extensive library resources and facilities for research and study.Sport, Exercise, and Health:
Opportunities for participation in sports and fitness activities.International Student Support:
Dedicated services for international students.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at the University of Bristol enjoy a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university is located in a dynamic city with a thriving arts scene, independent spirit, and alternative culture. Students have access to a wide range of clubs, societies, and events, fostering a strong sense of community.
Key Reasons to Study There:
High Academic Standards:
The university is consistently ranked among the top universities in the world and the UK, offering high-quality education.Strong Research Output:
The university is a leading research institution, with a focus on innovation and impact.Vibrant Campus Life:
The university offers a diverse and engaging campus experience with a strong sense of community.Location in a Dynamic City:
Bristol is a vibrant city with a thriving arts scene, independent spirit, and alternative culture.Excellent Career Prospects:
Graduates from the University of Bristol are highly sought after by employers.Academic Programs:
The University of Bristol offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
Arts:
Arts, Music, Theatre, Film, and more.Science:
Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, and more.Engineering:
Aerospace, Civil, Electrical, and more.Medicine and Dentistry:
Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing, and more.Social Sciences:
Economics, Politics, Sociology, and more.Law:
Law, Criminology, and more.Entry Requirements:
An upper second-class honours degree or international equivalent in any Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics subject (including Anthropology and Archaeology). We will consider applicants who do not have a degree listed above if they have evidence of significant, relevant work experience. If this is the case, applicants should include their CV (curriculum vitae / résumé) when they apply, showing details of their relevant work experience and/or qualifications. We will consider applicants whose interim grades are currently slightly lower than the programme's entry requirements. We may make these applicants an aspirational offer. Specific module requirements may still apply. We will consider applicants whose grades are slightly lower than the programme's entry requirements, if they have at least one of the following: evidence of significant, relevant work experience; a relevant postgraduate qualification. If this is the case, applicants should include their CV (curriculum vitae / résumé) when they apply, showing details of their relevant work experience and/or qualifications.
