University of Exeter United Kingdom

Animal Behavior MSci

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The Animal Behavior MSci at the University of Exeter is designed for aspiring scientists passionate about understanding the intricate world of animal actions and their evolutionary underpinnings. You will delve into the core concepts of zoology, ecology, and evolutionary biology, gaining a comprehensive understanding of how behaviour is shaped by genes, environment, and natural selection. This undergraduate degree is ideal for students eager to explore current topics in behaviour research and develop rigorous scientific methods for data collection and analysis, preparing you for advanced study and research in this dynamic field.

This full-time, on-campus MSci is studied over four years, immersing you in practical learning experiences. You will engage in laboratory classes and undertake compulsory residential field courses in diverse habitats, both within the UK and internationally, to gain hands-on research experience. Your final year culminates in a significant research project, allowing you to tailor your studies to specific interests under academic guidance. You will graduate with a deep understanding of animal behaviour, equipped for careers in conservation, research, wildlife management, and related scientific disciplines.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MSci program in Animal Behavior provides a comprehensive exploration of the field, beginning with foundational concepts in ecology, evolution, and animal diversity. Students will engage in extensive fieldwork across diverse global locations, analyzing biological data and developing research skills. The curriculum culminates in advanced research projects and specialized modules, preparing graduates for impactful careers in animal behavior and conservation.

1 Year 1

Ecology and Conservation Compulsory
Animal Diversity Compulsory
Evolution and Genetics Compulsory
Life Processes Optional

2 Year 2

Analysis of Biological Data Compulsory
Scotland Field Course [See note a above] Compulsory
Biosciences Penryn Virtual Field Course [See note a above] Compulsory
Scillies St Agnes Field Course [See note a above] Compulsory
Scillies St Mary's Field Course [See note a above] Compulsory
Behavioural Ecology Compulsory

3 Year 3

Research Project Compulsory
Ecology, Behaviour, and Conservation in Wild Places: The forests and oceans of Yukon and Alaska Compulsory
Azores Field Course Compulsory
Northern Spain Field Course Compulsory
Tropical Biodiversity and Conservation: Costa Rica Field Course Compulsory
Alpine Ecology Field Course Compulsory
Pyrenees Field Trip Compulsory
Global Research Skills Virtual Field Course [See note b above] Compulsory
Literature Review in Evolution and Ecology [See note b above] Compulsory
Preparing to Graduate Compulsory

4 Final year

Academic Research Project Compulsory
Rewilding the United Kingdom [See note c above] Compulsory
Literature Review in the Life Sciences Compulsory
Applied Data Analysis Compulsory
Global Challenges Field Course (MSci) [See note c above] Compulsory

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 42,173.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 42,173.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 42,173.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 42,173.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 168,692.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,833.00
Transport USD 806.00 - USD 1,611.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 2,095.00
Estimated Total USD 4,351.00 - USD 8,539.00

Living cost estimates are based on Penryn Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

92%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Adult & Continuing EducationAviation & Air TransportEnergy Engineering & InfrastructureEnergy Trading & MarketsGovernment & Regulatory AgenciesNursing & Allied HealthQuality Assurance & ControlRenewable Energy (Solar & Wind)Streaming & Digital ContentTour Operations & Guiding

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Amazon

Amgen

AstraZeneca

Deloitte

Environment Agency

GSK

John Lewis Group

NHS

Why Study Animal Behavior MSci at University of Exeter

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Exeter in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Animal Behavior MSci at University of Exeter

Can I work while studying?

International students in degree courses can work up to 20 hours per week during term time, and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English language requirements, you can take tests like Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE, with specific minimum scores for each. For example, the overall Duolingo score should be at least 120.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as animal behaviorists, wildlife biologists, conservation officers, zookeepers, or research scientists.

What will I actually study in this course?

This MSci offers a chance to work on a specialized project with leading research groups. You will study the behavior of various animals in their natural habitats and explore the influence of environment and genetics on their behavior.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Animal Behavior MSci program has an intake in September. Ensure you apply in advance to secure your spot.
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