• Question from:Laura

Hi there,

I have a geography degree (2:1) from St Andrews University (which included modules in environmental management and biogeography) and have been working for a renewable energy developer in ediniburgh in environmental impact assessment for 3 years. While at uni I travelled to Africa and spent some time as a volunteer worker on a wildlife reserve, an amazing experience. Whilst living in edinburgh I have also volunteered with friends of the earth, the marine conservation society, and am currently a volunteer at Edinburgh Zoo.

I am keen to move more into ecology and biodiversity as the loss of species and habitats that has become so evident greatly saddens me. I have been studying for a distance learning diploma in zoology which I hope to complete soon. I have also applied and gained places at several universities to study for a masters degree commencing in September/October. I am now trying to decide between courses which is proving difficult! and was wondering if you had any advice.

I have a place at Lancaster University to study Conservation Science, which includes modules in conservation biology and population ecology but also field identification skills and wildlife monitoring. I also have a place on a course a plymouth university entitled Zoo Conservation Biology which is more geared to a career in zoos including modules in animal nutrition, welfare and behaviour as well as conservation biology.

I am not quite sure which direction to head in, I prefer animals to be in their natural habitats, and working to protect habitats so this is possible would be very rewarding. However I do enjoy working at the zoo and recognize the important work they do in promoting awareness of biodiversity loss and in species protection through breeding programmes and in situ conservation projects. On which path would I be able to be of most use in the conservation of biodiversity?

I am aware that ultimately this really comes down to me knowing what I would like to do but if you have any thoughts or advice then I would be most interested to hear them, .

Many thanks for your time.

Laura.

Photo
  • University of Exeter
  • Posts: 577

I think you have hit the nail on the head - this does come down to you knowing what you'd like to do.

However, for what it's worth - and particularly if you are still vague about exactly what career path you might want to take, I would probably lean towards the course at Lancaster. I do not see how this choice, coupled with your volunteer experience in Edinburgh would limit future work in zoos if you wanted to take that route. Conversely I think that an MSc in zoo conservation would probably be less useful if you chose to do something in the natural environment.

Photo
  • QMUL, London
  • Posts: 1,022

I'd agree. You can usually go quite a long way outside your original area of training, but it's probably easier to go from wild stuff to zoos than the inverse. There are however definately more people seeking that kind of resear4ch than those willing to work in zoos, so the competition will be stiffer, but your experience in a zoo will help you get back into that area later on if you wish.

Do also consider the number of teaching hours, general quality of the institutions, levels of people finding employment afterwards and so on which can help you decide. Oh, and good luck!