Overview

The Conservation Biology programme at the University of South Florida provides students with the essential analytical tools required to address the global crisis of biodiversity loss. This Master of Science degree focuses on applying rigorous scientific principles to solve real-world environmental challenges across diverse habitats.

Students engage deeply with the primary drivers of ecological decline, including habitat degradation, climate change, and over-exploitation. The curriculum is designed to foster expertise in monitoring native and invasive species while developing the communication skills necessary to present findings to both scientific peers and the general public.

Research is a central pillar of the experience, with students expected to conduct original investigations of publication quality.

Why Conservation Biology at the University of South Florida?

The programme is strategically located at the St. Petersburg campus, offering students unparalleled access to a vibrant scientific community. This proximity facilitates strong professional partnerships with major organisations such as the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the United States Geological Survey.

Learners benefit from the expertise of faculty members who specialise in zoology, marine science, and conservation genetics. The institution provides a collaborative atmosphere where students can work alongside the College of Marine Science, enhancing the interdisciplinary nature of their biological research and technical training.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 16666 per year
National fee: USD 16666 per year
Local fee: USD 7840 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum focuses on the scientific application of biology to preserve natural habitats and manage diverse species. Modules may include:

Conservation Biology
Animal Behaviour
New Species Discovery
Conservation Genetics
Threatened and Invasive Species
Biomedical Science
Marine Science
Zoology

Careers with Conservation Biology

Graduates are prepared for diverse professional roles within governmental environmental agencies, wildlife parks, and zoos. The programme provides a robust foundation for those seeking to influence conservation initiatives through private organisations or sustainable development businesses.

Many alumni pursue successful careers in environmental consulting firms, providing expert guidance on biodiversity management. Additionally, the rigorous research training serves as an excellent gateway for individuals aiming to enter academic institutions for further teaching or high-level scientific research roles.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Conservation Biology Theory
Quantitative Analytical Methods
Florida Ecosystems
Seminar in Ecology
Biodiversity
Directed Independent Research

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-08-26 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-06-01 00:00:00
Starting 2027-01-13 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-15 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

110

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Tampa, United States

Disciplines

Biology Biodiversity & Conservation View 852 other Masters in Biology in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

110

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

A bachelor’s degree with a “B” average or better and a previous graduate degree with a “B” average or better. In cases where an applicant has a bachelor’s and a graduate degree at the time of admission, the credentials and GPA of the graduate degree will be the determining factor for admission.
The equivalent bachelors and/or graduate degrees from a foreign institution. Bachelor’s degrees from institutions in the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) are considered equivalent based on the Bologna Accord. For applicants with a 3-year Bachelor’s Degree with less than 120 hours, from Non-Bologna Accord Institutions, a transcript evaluation from a NACES member is required to confirm equivalency.
Applicants from countries where English is not the official language, and who have not earned at least a bachelor’s degree in the U.S., must also demonstrate proficiency in the English language.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

16666 USD / year

≈ 16666 USD / year
Out-of-State

16666 USD / year

≈ 16666 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

7840 USD / year

≈ 7840 USD / year

Living costs

Tampa

United States

1122 - 1951 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Conservation Biology.

Available Scholarships

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About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Tampa

Financing

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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