MBiol, BSc Ecology and Conservation Biology (Integrated Masters)

Year 4

(Award available for year: Master of Biology & Bach of Sc)

Learning outcomes

On completion of the year/programme students should have provided evidence of being able:
- to demonstrate in-depth, specialist knowledge of concepts and information at the forefront of Ecology and Conservation
Biology acquired through research-based teaching, reading the scientific literature and attending research seminars;
- to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of research principles and methodologies applicable to Ecology and
Conservation Biology developed through research-based teaching including experimental planning, execution and analysis
of results and the development of detailed research plans for project work including the development of a grant application
style report;
- to critically evaluate current issues and research literature in Ecology and Conservation Biology evidenced through critical review of the
research literature and hypothesis driven articulation of ideas based on the integration of concepts underpinning current
research reports including in the context of the students own work;
- to demonstrate advanced data analysis, interpretation and problem-solving skills demonstrated through a range of
activities including the data generated during research work;
- to proactively plan, implement and execute a research project demonstrated through the articulation of a detailed project
proposal written in the form a hypothesis driven grant proposal to underpin the final project;
- to demonstrate an enhanced ability to communicate research data and ideas in writing and verbally evidenced through the
production of written reports during the programme and a major written dissertation presenting in a coherent and articulate
manner the outcomes of the final research project together with oral and poster presentations related to this project work;
- to take a proactive and self-reflective role in working and to develop professional relationships with others demonstrated
through regular reporting of progress during the project work, reflection in preparation for personal tutorials, maintaining
individual progress records and living CV through Leeds for Life and showing interpersonal skills in interactions with other students and staff both within the research laboratory environment and in taught sessions.

Transferable (key) skills

Undergraduate Masters students will have had the opportunity to acquire the following abilities as defined in the modules specified for the programme:
- the skills necessary to undertake a higher research degree and/or for employment in a higher capacity in industry or area of professional practice;
- evaluating their own achievement and that of others;
- self direction and effective decision making in complex and unpredictable situations;
- independent learning and the ability to work in a way which ensures continuing professional development;
- critically to engage in the development of professional/disciplinary boundaries and norms.

Assessment

Achievement for the degree of Undergraduate Master will be assessed by a variety of methods in accordance with the
learning outcomes of the modules specified for the year/programme and will involve the achievement of the students in:
- evidencing an ability to conduct independent in-depth enquiry within Ecology and Conservation Biology;
- demonstrating the ability to apply breadth and/or depth of knowledge to complex areas in Ecology and Conservationl Biology;
- drawing on a range of perspectives within Ecology and Conservation Biology;
- evaluating and criticising received opinion;
- make reasoned judgements whilst understanding the limitations on judgements made in the absence of complete data.