Primate Conservation – (M.Sc.)

Contents

Course length

Full-time: MSc: 12 months, PGDip: 8 months
Part-time: MSc: 24 months, PGDip: 16 months, PGCert: 8 months

The course runs for one year (two semesters) for full-time students and for two years (four semesters) for part-time students. The break periods (winter, spring and summer) are used to work on the final research project.

If you register on the MSc in Primate Conservation you will take the six taught modules mentioned below and the final research project. If you register on the PGDip in Primate Conservation you will take six taught modules but not the final research project. A PGCert in Primate Conservation is awarded upon successful completion of three taught modules.

Taught modules:

* Primate Diversity, Biogeography and Status reviews the variety of primate species, together with their distribution, ecology and conservation status. Taken in the first semester by all students, this module emphasises the differences between primate species and factors that make them more or less vulnerable to extinction. Methods of rainforest biodiversity assessment are explored. Successful conservation projects are highlighted and future options discussed.


* People-Primate Interactions provides an overview of the many ways that humans and wildlife (both primates and other animals) interact and impact on each other in primate habitat countries. This module examines examples of conflict between humans and wildlife in relation to crop raiding, hunting, biomedical research, tourism, and the design and management of national parks and wildlife reserves. The course introduces students to the diverse attitudes of different cultures or different levels of society towards primates, and to the way that these attitudes will influence primate conservation initiatives. As an example, the course looks at cross-cultural contrasts in the way primates are perceived and treated, and the problems of promoting primate conservation if these are ignored.


* Primate Conservation - Research Methods gives students a basic understanding of how to conduct a field study of primates in the wild, in captivity, or in a museum. The focus of this module is on the primates themselves rather than the humans who play a role in their environment. Methods dealing with humans (such as interviews and education) will be covered in other modules. Instruction is given on the best ways to collect and analyse data for different kinds of research or investigation suitable for the final project, giving students opportunities to compare the methods they intend to use and to learn of their strengths and weaknesses. The course covers planning, data collection, analysis and interpretation of results relevant to research on primate conservation, including training in programmes such as SPSS, DISTANCE, Ranges and ArcView. Extended visits to one or more collaborating institutions are undertaken to learn practical techniques such as museum studies, behavioural observation techniques and botanical sampling in situ. The major aim of this course is for each student to write a research proposal suitable for submission to an appropriate funding agency.


* Genetics and Population Management leads to an advanced understanding of the genetic and demographic management of both small captive populations and those that have become isolated in the wild. The principles of molecular and population genetics are placed in a practical context, and students will learn about the latest techniques of DNA sequencing and the use of micro-satellites and random sequencing techniques to assess genetic relationships between individuals, populations and species. The course explores the relevance of genetics to primate conservation, including its use in studbooks and the management of metapopulations.


* Captive Management and Rehabilitation reviews good practice in the management and welfare of captive primates, and the implications for the survival of declining populations in the wild. Emphasis is given to the effects of the captive environment on behavioural traits (stereotypy, genetic selection) and breeding success; veterinary care, housing and enclosure design, display, and environmental enrichment are also considered. The role of cryogenics and the pros and cons of reintroduction and rehabilitation into the wild are covered in detail.


* Environmental Education reviews the knowledge base required for effective conservation action. This module centres on practical ways of conveying information about environmental decline and how primates can be used to promote public understanding. Environmental education issues are explored with particular reference to primates, and educational philosophies and the effectiveness of different strategies and media are considered. This course gives students access to a variety of techniques for the presentation and dissemination of information about conservation issues, including traditional media and, particularly, digital technology and methods. Students are introduced to productive ways of planning, conducting and evaluating educational projects by means of case studies.



NB As courses are reviewed regularly, the module list you choose from may vary from that shown here.

Students are encouraged to build on their strengths and interests throughout the course, culminating in the production of a Final Research Project that has a tangible outcome of use to the broader public and conservation community. All projects are accompanied by a written component to integrate and explain the work and this may sometimes be in the form of a traditional thesis. Students will be encouraged to produce work that has a lasting impact. Examples include the production of a film or exhibition, one or more articles/chapters for publication, a broadcasting project, an education handbook, web-based materials or design of a practical project relating to primate conservation (e.g. eco-tourism, habitat management or conservation education).