Applied Ecology and Geospatial Techniques MRes / MSc

Program Overview

The MRes/MSc Applied Ecology and Geospatial Techniques program at Nottingham Trent University equips students with advanced ecological and geospatial analysis skills. By leveraging real-world data and industry collaborations, graduates develop expertise in applied ecology, conservation, and sustainable land management. The program's research-driven approach fosters critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, preparing students for careers in environmental protection, conservation science, and GIS-related fields.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The MRes/MSc Applied Ecology and Geospatial Techniques program at Nottingham Trent University is designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and skills in applying ecological and geospatial techniques to real-world conservation challenges.

Objectives:

• Develop advanced knowledge and technical skills in using analytical and geospatial tools and techniques for ecological research and conservation.
• Gain a deep understanding of the key principles of applied ecology and their application to real-world conservation challenges.
• Apply knowledge to address important questions in the field of conservation by working with real-world ecological data sets and collaborative industry projects.
• Develop strategies for responsible data management and sharing.
The techniques covered are applicable internationally.
• Geographical Information Systems (20 credit points): This module explores the application of GIS and Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) technology in conservation.
• Applied Population Ecology (20 credit points): This module focuses on utilizing advanced analytical methods and technologies to conduct animal population studies for conservation purposes.
Students develop effective technical and digital communication skills through the use and interpretation of various digital media and tools.
• Applied Spatial Ecology (20 credit points): This module equips students with advanced skills in utilizing recent technological and analytical developments in animal movement and landscape use.
Students develop research questions, design experiments, collect and analyze data, and report outcomes to wider audiences.
• Remote Sensing and Advanced Geographical Information Systems (20 credit points): This module focuses on obtaining and utilizing existing remote sensing data to enhance ecological and conservation research.
Students gain skills and experience in operating and collecting information from a range of recent and emerging geospatial technologies.
• Research Methods and Data Analysis (20 credit points): This module develops advanced skills in interpreting quantitative and qualitative research data, fostering a critical understanding of ethical considerations involved in data collection.
Students present their findings and research in various ways, critically evaluating, interpreting, and relaying knowledge gained from secondary sources to peers.
• Research Project (MRes 120 credit points; MSc 60 credit points): This module involves in-depth research on a chosen topic related to ecology and geospatial technologies.
Students design and implement a relevant research project with a strong aspect of originality, communicating the findings to an informed audience in a comprehensive scientific report.

MRes vs. MSc:

• MSc: The MSc course comprises a taught program of six modules and a research project.

Optional Modules (MRes):

• Protected Species Surveying
• Geographical Information Systems (GIS)
• Applied Population Ecology
• Applied Spatial Ecology

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: The program utilizes a blend of lectures, seminars, online learning, and practical sessions.
Independent learning is encouraged, and students undertake high-quality research for their Masters awards.
• Faculty: The academic team facilitating the course works on conservation initiatives in several countries and has established research links in South America, South Africa, Kenya, Uganda, Mauritius, and Europe.
These links provide opportunities and scope for a wide range of research projects in the field.
• Unique Approaches: The program leverages the Brackenhurst campus, a 200-hectare country estate and working farm, for practical learning and field experience.
The campus offers a range of wetland and terrestrial habitats, supporting the practice of surveying techniques and species sampling. Students also benefit from active conservation projects on the estate, including bird ringing, small mammal trapping and monitoring, and environmental impact assessments.

Careers:

• Potential Career Paths: Graduates from this degree can enter various roles in the ecological, environmental, and landscape planning sectors, including:
• Ecological Consultant
• Environmental Scientist
• GIS Specialist
• Conservation Scientist
• Wildlife Biologist
• Ecological Restoration Specialist
• Landscape Planner
• Natural Resource Manager
• Environmental Planner
• Data Scientist
• Opportunities: The course includes built-in work-like experience through authentic ecological projects in collaboration with real-world industry partners.
This provides practical experience and exposure to the challenges and opportunities of working in the field.
• Outcomes: 93% of postgraduates from the School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences are in work or further study within 15 months of finishing their degrees (based on the latest Graduate Outcomes Survey 2020/21).
Graduates can also progress to further academic research pathways via PhDs and as Research Assistants/Fellows.

Other:

• Research: The program emphasizes a research-driven approach, encouraging students to think critically and find solutions to global challenges.
• Field Trips: Non-residential UK day excursions are included in the tuition fee.
Students may be charged a maximum of 20% of the cost for compulsory residential trips or courses in the UK and 30% for compulsory overseas residential courses. Other non-compulsory field trip opportunities may also be offered.

Mode of studyHome (UK) tuition feeFull-time£9,700Part-time £4,850 please note that if you are considering a course that runs over more than one year, the tuition fee stated is for the first year of study. The course fee for the second year may be subject to annual review. The level of tuition fees for the second and subsequent years of your postgraduate course may increase in line with inflation and as specified by the UK government.