– In the final semester, students focus on developing their Master thesis at a partner institution of their choice. This semester aims to prepare students to lead and execute independent research in Global Change, Biodiversity Conservation, and Environmental Management.
– Students will have the opportunity to collaborate with associated partners or other institutions, leveraging various resources and expertise. The research topics and plans must be approved by the Academic and Management Board of the master program, ensuring alignment with academic standards and relevance. This semester emphasizes the application of learned skills and knowledge to real-world problems, culminating in a substantial piece of independent research.
– The third semester, hosted at the University of Lisbon (ULisboa), emphasizes the practical application of knowledge gained in previous semesters. Students will focus on equipping themselves with the tools and methodologies necessary to effectively tackle contemporary ecological issues. This semester is designed to provide a comprehensive foundation in ecological and conservation-based environmental management within the context of global change.
– Students will delve into innovative approaches for managing socio-ecological systems and explore sustainable solutions that balance biodiversity conservation with economic and social needs. The interdisciplinary curriculum includes one field course and six modules, covering critical areas such as sustainability, environmental governance, bioeconomy, and environmental assessment. By translating theory into actionable strategies, students will develop advanced management skills essential for making a significant impact in environmental management and conservation.
– The second semester at Bangor University (BU) builds on the understanding developed during the first semester to deepen students’ knowledge of both fundamental and applied subjects necessary for the conservation of individuals, species, and ecosystems.
– Students will gain a state-of-the-art understanding and experience of the social sciences underpinning conservation. The semester offers a unique opportunity to consolidate knowledge and translate it into practical conservation practices. Combining natural, social, and applied sciences with hands-on experience, students will investigate the intricate world of biodiversity, studying patterns, threats, and strategies employed to safeguard fragile ecosystems.
– The first semester at URJC provides a comprehensive foundation, both conceptually and practically. The modules offer training in global change drivers and their ecological and evolutionary impacts. Students will explore biodiversity conservation techniques and develop skills such as effective communication, time management, problem-solving, and leadership.
– The semester emphasizes key skills in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific writing and communication. This bridges various competences from diverse backgrounds, ensuring students have the necessary skills and knowledge for the following semesters. The semester concludes with an intensive field course, allowing practical application of acquired knowledge and skills.
– Held between the first and second year, the 3-week summer school at Universidad Autónoma de Tlaxcala (UATx) offers an immersive experience in a megadiverse region of Mexico. Students will gain firsthand insights into environmental challenges and explore successful conservation and restoration projects. The program emphasizes community engagement through scientific outreach and the social dimensions of science with local communities.
– This intensive experience will provide essential in situ skills in ecology, conservation, and social science, enriching their understanding of ecological challenges and conservation practices in diverse ecosystems. It is a vital component for preparing students to implement effective conservation and management practices in their future careers. Engage in hands-on experiences in Central Mexico, exploring ecology and conservation in three key ecosystems. Work directly with local communities and participate in field practices and workshops to address environmental challenges in a highly degraded region.
The Universidad Autónoma de Tlaxcala (UATx) is a leading Mexican institution known for its high faculty-to-student ratio and personalized attention across 88 programs. It excels in research with centers like the Tlaxcala Center for Behavioral Biology (CTBC) – La Malinche Scientific Station (ECLM), focusing on Ecology and Biodiversity Conservation. The CTBC-ECLM emphasizes student engagement with rural communities and offers master’s and PhD programs in Biological Sciences, integrating a humanistic, competency-based model.
Bangor University, named Welsh University of the Year in 2024, is renowned for academic excellence, with over 75% of its research rated world-leading or internationally excellent. The School of Environment and Natural Resources (SENS) excels in environmental sciences, ecology, and engineering, supported by the Henfaes Research Centre and Treborth Botanic Garden. Bangor is globally recognized for its research impact and high teaching quality, earning a Gold rating in the UK Teaching Excellence Framework.
Universidade de Lisboa is Portugal’s largest and most prestigious university, with 18 schools, 100+ research units, and 50,000 students. Ranked among the top 200 globally and 101-150 in Ecology, it has a seven-century academic tradition. ULisboa excels in science, technology, arts, and humanities, attracting over 9,000 international students yearly. The Faculty of Sciences’ Departments of Animal Biology and Geology are noted for Ecology, Conservation Biology, and Marine Biology, offering diverse programs and fostering international collaboration.
Universidad Rey Juan Carlos (URJC) is a young public university in Madrid, quickly becoming the second largest by enrollment. Its Biodiversity and Conservation Area is a leader in ecology and global change, ranking among the top 100-150 globally and second nationally, with strong scientific output. It fosters international collaboration and offers top-tier research facilities, including modern labs and 3000 m² of greenhouses for controlled experiments.