Animal Behaviour and Evolution

From evolutionary development to environmental stimuli, animal behaviour is shaped by a range of factors. This masters course is your chance to explore them in detail – not only developing your understanding of the theoretical principles of behaviour, but also learning how to harness these principles to tackle real-world animal welfare and conservation issues. 

It’s an area that covers a diverse range of disciplines, from a strong numerical approach in the classroom, to a practical approach in the lab and in the field. The course is built around strong core modules that address the interaction between environment, experience, and physiology in the development and dynamics of animal behaviour. 

Above all, this is a course that offers the chance to study animal behaviour up close. You’ll have the opportunity to go on a residential field trip overseas. This could take you across Europe, Turkey or even Tanzania in East Africa. You’ll usually have a choice between two destinations – additional fees will apply if you decide to choose to go on the East African trip.*

As well as expert analytical abilities and practical research techniques, you’ll leave us with an in-depth understanding of how animal physiology, experience and environment combine to create behaviour. All of this knowledge prepares you to pursue a range of career paths, from animal management to education or further research. 

*Please note, all overseas field courses are subject to any international travel restrictions and/or availability. There may be additional costs for all overseas trips, such as the costs associated with getting travel visas.

Features and Benefits

Strong industry links – To ensure your learning is relevant and impactful, we work closely with a range of organisations across the UK including the RSPCA, Chester Zoo and Knowsley Safari Park, along with overseas bodies such as the Kenya Wildlife Service.

Professional study environment – We’ve invested over £115 million to transform the way we teach and the way our students learn. The new Dalton building is equipped with dynamic learning spaces, world-class teaching and research facilities and collaborative study zones. This means you’ll graduate with the skills and experiences employers look for.

Expert teaching – Learn from a passionate community of teaching staff who bring extensive experience of field research into the classroom to shape your studies.

Overseas fieldwork opportunities – Gain unrivalled practical experience in ecological and data collection techniques in some of the most famous wildlife sites in the world, including the Ngorongoro Crater, and the Serengeti National Park.

Recognised for research excellence – 100% of our research impact in Ecology and Environment is world-leading or internationally excellent and we are ranked 5th in the UK for impact in Environmental Science (REF 2021). You’ll work in association with these staff projects at the cutting-edge of discovery to hone your research skills. 

Flexible learning – Thanks to evening lectures and an online learning platform, our flexible approach to your learning means you’re able to make more time for research, lab work and independent study.