University of Exeter United Kingdom

MSci Evolutionary Biology

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

Embark on the MSci Evolutionary Biology at the University of Exeter, a programme designed for those fascinated by the intricate processes that have shaped life on Earth and continue to drive its future. In an era where understanding adaptation, biodiversity, and the impact of environmental change is critical, this degree equips you with the scientific knowledge and practical skills to address these global challenges. You will explore the fundamental principles of evolutionary ecology, genetics, and behaviour, preparing you for a dynamic field that is essential for conservation, medicine, and understanding our place in the natural world.

This full-time, four-year undergraduate degree is studied on campus, immersing you in a vibrant academic community. You will develop your expertise through lectures, laboratory work, and extensive fieldwork, including compulsory international and UK-based field courses that offer hands-on experience in diverse ecosystems. In your final year, you will undertake a significant independent research project, collaborating closely with leading academics. You will graduate with a deep understanding of evolutionary biology and advanced analytical skills, ready for postgraduate study or careers in conservation, research, ecological consultancy, and beyond.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MSci program in Evolutionary Biology provides a comprehensive exploration of life's history and diversity. Students will delve into foundational concepts of ecology, genetics, and animal diversity in their initial year. Subsequent years build upon this knowledge with advanced topics in evolutionary ecology, behavioral ecology, and conservation science, often incorporating extensive field-based learning experiences across diverse global environments. The program culminates in a significant research project and specialized modules, preparing graduates for advanced study or careers in evolutionary biology and related fields.

1 Year 1

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

2 Year 2

Evolutionary Ecology Compulsory
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
Population and Community Ecology Optional
Wildlife Disease Optional
Introduction to Ecological Consultancy Optional
Conservation Science Optional
Biology and Ecology of Marine Vertebrates Optional
Wildlife Exploitation Optional
Adaptations to Life on Earth Optional
GIS for Wildlife Mapping Optional

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
Human Behavioural Ecology Optional
Living in Groups Optional
Literature Review in Evolution and Ecology Optional
Symbiosis in Marine Systems Optional
Sensory Ecology Optional
Science in Society Optional
Animal Life Histories Optional
Ecological Responses to Climate Change Optional
Evolutionary Biology of Health and Disease Optional
Animal Migration Optional
Animal Cognition Optional
Primate Biology and Conservation Optional
The Complexity of Human Societies Optional
Major Transitions in Evolutionary History Optional
Global Research Skills Virtual Field Course Optional
The Genome: Applications, Evolution and Ecology Optional

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

Economic Research & PolicyEducation Policy & AdministrationEmergency Services & Disaster ResponseForestry & LoggingIT Support & Systems AdministrationMarket Research & InsightsMidstream Operations & Energy LogisticsMusic & Performing ArtsPharmacovigilance & Drug SafetyPolice & Public Safety

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Amazon

Amgen

AstraZeneca

Deloitte

Environment Agency

GSK

NHS

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Why Study MSci Evolutionary Biology 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 MSci Evolutionary Biology 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. They can also work full-time during breaks without needing a separate work permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English test requirements, you can choose from various tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE. For example, a minimum overall IELTS score of 6.5 is required.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as conservation scientists, research assistants, ecological consultants, and other related roles.

What will I actually study in this course?

This full-time, four-year degree covers key topics in evolutionary ecology and genetics. It combines lectures with practical experience through lab work and field courses.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MSci Evolutionary Biology program at the University of Exeter has an intake month in September. Make sure to prepare your application ahead of time.
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