MSc in Biodiversity & Conservation (Research)

Purpose

The primary purpose of the MSc dissertation is to provide students with specialised advanced education and training while meeting the requirements of a specific research component so that students can master the required experimental and technological skills and necessary fieldwork competencies such as innovation, decision-making, strategic thinking and organisational skills. A dissertation-based Master of Science degree consists of a comprehensive study of a specialized area in the field of specialisation, reported on and submitted in the form of a dissertation at the end of the programme. The degree demands a high level of intellectual and theoretical knowledge and insight into problems related to the field of study and of critical reasoning, formulation, analysis and evaluation of a specific problem in the field of study.

Admission Requirements

The minimum admission requirement for a master programme is a qualification at NQF Level 8, an honours qualification, a four-year 480 NQF credit bachelor’s qualification (with a minimum of 96 credits at NQF Level 8), or a postgraduate diploma, in the same or a relevant field of study or discipline. The relevant field of study or discipline is determined by the relevant Faculty Board, approved by the Senate Higher Degrees Committee and ratified by Senate. Admission requirements are department specific and approved by the Executive Dean. Admission to a master programme is not automatic even if the applicant is in possession of an appropriate preceding qualification. A department may, subject to approval by the Executive Dean, require a student to successfully complete certain specified components before the master’s degree can be awarded. Students applying for master’s degree studies in general need to have obtained their previous relevant degree with an average mark of at least 65% or equivalent. In exceptional cases a student with a mark between 60% and 64% may apply to be accepted for study provided a motivation from the Supervisor and the Head of Department where the study is to be conducted is submitted to the Executive Dean of the Faculty of Science for approval.

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