Overview

Explore zoo‑based conservation, animal welfare and population management, supported by collaboration with the National Marine Aquarium, the UK’s largest aquarium throughout the Zoo and Aquarium Conservation Biology programme from University of Plymouth

Key facts

Step into the world of modern zoo and aquarium management with a programme built on real industry experience and cutting edge conservation science.

With teaching and field trips to Paignton Zoo and the National Marine Aquarium, gaining behind-the-scenes access.

Learn from leading researchers in the field of zoo and aquarium conservation biology.

Develop the scientific, professional and technical skills needed to improve animal welfare, support global breeding programmes and drive meaningful conservation action.

With hands-on training, a substantial research project and the option of an extended industry placement, this course prepares you for a wide range of careers across zoos, aquariums and conservation organisations.

You will study six modules, covering everything from genetics to captive animal enrichment and preventative health to zoo management. Teaching is delivered mainly at the University and Paignton Zoo, but you will also visit the National Marine Aquarium; including access to behind-the-scenes activities with expert staff. You will develop expertise relevant to career paths in conservation, welfare, husbandry, conservation advocacy and captive animal management within the zoo and aquarium industry. On completion of the taught programme, you will be equipped to conduct a final four-month research project of your choice.

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Programme Structure

Courses include:

Contemporary Zoo Management

Small Population Conservation

Conservation Ecology and Society

Animal Behaviour and Welfare Research

Masters Placement Preparation

Research Project

Check out the full curriculum

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Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-21 00:00:00

Apply anytime.

More details

Applications can usually be made throughout the year, and are considered until programmes are full.

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

120

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TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

180 alternative credits

(+ optional placement)

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Plymouth, United Kingdom

Disciplines

Biology Biodiversity & Conservation Zoology View 112 other Masters in Biodiversity & Conservation in United Kingdom

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Academic requirements

GPA

Upper Second Class

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

120

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

A 2:1 or equivalent preferably in a biology, science, marine or animal related subject. We will consider a 2:2 or equivalent or other relevant awards, with substantial relevant experience.

Applicants with overseas qualifications can check their comparability with the UK equivalent through Ecctis, which provides an advisory service.
If your first language is not English then evidence of English proficiency is required. The level of proficiency that is required can vary with the type of programme for which you are applying.

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Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

21000 GBP / year

≈ 21000 GBP / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

11700 GBP / year

≈ 11700 GBP / year

Additional Details

Part time (Home) - £650 per 10 credits.

Living costs

Plymouth

United Kingdom

731 - 1387 GBP / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Zoo and Aquarium Conservation Biology.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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About

Overview

Get more details

Programme Structure

Check out the full curriculum

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

Explore more key information

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Make sure you meet all requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic Applies to you

Additional Details

Living costs

Plymouth

Funding

Check for any work restrictions

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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