MSc Conservation Management in Freshwater Environments at University of the Highlands and Islands

Programme overview

A practical conservation master's based in the Scottish Highlands that builds scientific knowledge and field experience for freshwater ecosystems, culminating in a professional placement with a conservation-active organisation. Work may include fieldwork, eDNA laboratory analysis, programming and GIS.

Duration: Full-time: 1 year; part-time: 2-3 years | Intake: September and January | Study mode: full-time / part-time | Location: Inverness, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

PgCert modules are Applied conservation genetics, Freshwater conservation science and Introduction to R and data visualisation; the PgDip adds Applications of GIS, Fundamental statistics and one option from Advanced GIS and remote sensing, Biodiversity management or Statistics 2; the MSc requires a placement with a Scottish conservation-relevant organisation.

Career pathways

Wildlife biologist, park ranger, environmental consultant, environmental education and communication roles, ecotourism field guide, GIS spatial modeller or officer, field or research assistant and policy advisor; progression to a PhD in environmental or freshwater science.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

2:2 undergraduate honours degree in a related subject, or a 2:2 degree in a non-related subject plus at least 2 years' relevant work experience in the conservation sector, or a postgraduate diploma or professional qualification in a related subject. Category 2 PVG course (PVG Scheme membership needed for specific optional modules). English language for international applicants whose first language is not English: IELTS Academic overall 6.5 with no element below 6.0 (university-wide postgraduate requirement for online study from overseas), or an alternative qualification meeting CEFR B2 in all four components.

Domestic applicants: GBP 5,820 for the whole programme (2026/27). Scotland-domiciled, Masters degree (6 modules plus dissertation, 180 credits). Source

International applicants: GBP 17,170 for the whole programme (2026/27). International students on-campus (term-time address in Scotland), Masters degree (180 credits). Source

Intake: September and January

Duration: Full-time: 1 year; part-time: 2-3 years

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