Integrated Masters - Master of Science - Zoology - Herpetology (C303)

Reptiles and amphibians are increasingly appreciated as model organisms in many fields of zoology, and are the focus of growing conservation concern due to the alarming decline of many species. This means that requirement of a new generation of trained professional scientists with specialised knowledge and skills relating to these animals in addition to a broad zoological background. The master of Science in Zoology with Herpetology course combines traditional zoology with an emphasis upon amphibian and reptile biology and diversity, and is delivered along with aspects of conservation management and practices.

Students have the opportunity to undertake a herpetology field trip to Arizona at the beginning of the second year. The aim is to provide them with a combination of a sound and broad zoological training that covers both pure and applied aspects of animal life, and specialist herpetological knowledge and skills. The provision of a diversity of laboratory and field zoology experience is an important component of the course, as is the acquisition of transferable skills (data analysis, group work, presentational and writing skills, IT skills).

This program is an extended undergraduate programme which allows students to graduate either with Bachelor of Science (Honours) at the end of the third year or with a Master at the end of the fourth year.