UK · Master's
University of Leeds
MSc Biodiversity & Conservation
University of Leeds
Course Overview
The University of Leeds is a Russell Group, QS top-90 university with a globally significant ecology and conservation research base — its Faculty of Biological Sciences and the School of Geography host long-running tropical-forest, climate and biodiversity research (including the RAINFOR Amazon network). The MSc Biodiversity & Conservation trains graduates in conservation biology, ecological monitoring, GIS and the policy and practice of protecting ecosystems. For Sri Lankan science graduates — a profile especially relevant given Sri Lanka's status as a global biodiversity hotspot — Leeds is a strong route into conservation careers.
The programme combines conservation theory and ecological methods with hands-on GIS, statistics and survey training, a residential field course, and a research dissertation often carried out with an external conservation partner. Leeds's tropical-ecology expertise resonates directly with Sri Lankan conservation challenges. The UK's 2-year Graduate Route lets graduates gain professional experience after completion before returning to high-demand roles at home.
Entry Requirements
Academic
- check_circle Bachelor's degree (UK 2:1 or equivalent) in biology, zoology, ecology, environmental science or a related field — Sri Lankan BSc degrees from Colombo, Peradeniya, Kelaniya, Ruhuna and Rajarata accepted.
- check_circle Relevant fieldwork or conservation experience strengthens the application.
- check_circle Personal statement on your conservation interests.
- check_circle Two references and certified transcripts.
English Proficiency
- check_circle IELTS Academic: 6.5 Overall (no band below 6.0).
- check_circle TOEFL iBT: 92 Overall.
- check_circle PTE Academic: 64 Overall.
- check_circle Waived if your bachelor's degree was taught and assessed entirely in English (most Sri Lankan English-medium graduates qualify with an MOI letter).
Estimated Cost of Study
| Expense Category | Amount (£) | Approx. LKR |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fee (12 months) | £29,500 | Rs. 11,800,000 |
| Living Expenses in Leeds (12 months) | £12,000 | Rs. 4,800,000 |
| Student Visa & IHS Fee | £1,800 | Rs. 720,000 |
| Field Course, Books & Travel | £1,500 | Rs. 600,000 |
| Total Programme Investment | £44,800 | Rs. 17,920,000 |
*LKR conversion based on current bank rates. Subject to change.
Career Outcomes & PR
MSc graduates are eligible for the 2-year UK Graduate Route. Leeds conservation graduates move into roles with conservation NGOs (WWF, RSPB, Fauna & Flora International), ecological consultancies, protected-area management, environmental agencies, and PhD study. Sri Lankan returnees route into the Department of Wildlife Conservation, the Forest Department, the Central Environmental Authority, conservation NGOs (IUCN Sri Lanka, WNPS), ecotourism and academic posts at the science faculties.
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