Biodiversity and Conservation (M.Sc. / P.Grad.Dip.)
Is this course for me?
This programme has been designed to provide students with a sound theoretical and practical grounding in the science of biological diversity and its conservation. The programme is taught in modules, and these are grouped into theoretical components, practical research skills, and modules dealing with individual desk-based and experimental research projects. The course is taught through a variety of methods - lectures, practical classes, field-based learning, guided reading and discussion groups and web-based methods. A variety of assessment procedures are used - essay writing, oral presentations, web-based tests, examinations and dissertations. The approach is to develop, progressively, a high degree of independent thinking and academic excellence in students completing the course.
Following successful completion of the taught part of the course, students embark on a closely supervised research project of approximately three months duration, intended to expand the skills and knowledge base acquired in earlier modules.
This is a full-time, intensive programme that will run over a twelve-month period. All modules are compulsory for M.Sc. candidates while P.Grad.Dip. candidates are required to take all modules except the Research Project.
The programme provides in-depth training and experience for those looking to further their career in various aspects of biodiversity and its conservation, for students wishing to pursue further post-graduate research in this area, and for professionals already working in conservation biology wishing to obtain relevant qualifications.
The Biodiversity and Conservation Master program at Trinity is a brilliant and very exciting course. The modules were well organised and structured. Initially, we read a lot papers which is essential for any scientific research, then we studied the basic concepts of conservation and biodiversity and, finally, we learnt practical skills and computer programs and how to apply them in practice. The lecturers were great and friendly, and the whole staff at TCD was very helpful. During the program we had the opportunity to improve many of our skills such as report writing, literature review, public presentation, group work and field work. For the desk study and the research project we learnt about time management, individual work and other aspects of scientific research. Of course, the field trip to South Africa was the best part of the program, where we faced serious conservation issues and explored the amazing diversity of African plants and animals with some excellent local guides. I would recommend the course to anyone who is interested in conservation.
Career Opportunities
Our graduates develop an excellent foundation for a wide range of careers. We are proud of the achievements of our graduates who have succeeded across a wide range of industries including: academic research, education, veterinary, medical, journalism, technology, banking, exploration, tourism, environmental consultancy, career development, conservation, natural resource management, public service, aquaculture and film-making. Throughout our students time here we provide inspiration, guidance, feedback and practice to enable students to embark on fulfilling and life-long learning in zoology and the natural sciences, regardless of their destination after graduation.