Marine Top Predator
Bangor , United Kingdom
MSc Marine Top Predator Ecology
Prifysgol Bangor University
Marine Biology & Ocean Sciences
Program Overview: MSc Marine Top Predator Ecology
The MSc Marine Top Predator Ecology at Bangor University is a one-year, full-time program consisting of two taught semesters and an independent research project. It focuses on the ecology and conservation of marine top predators such as marine mammals, seabirds, and sharks, combining specialist field and quantitative research skills with oceanographic knowledge.
This multi-disciplinary program brings together expertise in marine top predator ecology and oceanography within the School of Ocean Sciences. You will be trained in key quantitative approaches and introduced to contemporary methods in top predator monitoring and research, enabling you to document species abundance, distribution, and behaviour in relation to their physical habitat.
Teaching takes place primarily in the dedicated Masters Suite at the Menai Bridge site, with practical fieldwork based around the rich marine environments of North Wales. You will have the opportunity to sail on the RV Prince Madog research vessel and use state-of-the-art oceanographic and ecological field data acquisition systems.
Key Program Highlights
- Hands-on fieldwork studying marine mammals, seabirds, and sharks in the rich coastal waters of North Wales
- Access to the RV Prince Madog research vessel and state-of-the-art oceanographic equipment
- Training in advanced quantitative skills including R programming, GIS, species distribution modelling, and mark-recapture analysis
- Independent summer research project embedded within active research groups at the School of Ocean Sciences
Curriculum & Modules
The MSc Marine Top Predator Ecology curriculum combines specialist modules on predator ecology with fundamental oceanographic and ecological modules. Two taught semesters build your field and analytical expertise before you undertake an independent research dissertation from late May to September.
Introduces conceptual, field, and analytical knowledge for multi-disciplinary research on seabird and marine mammal ecology in coastal and shelf-seas. Covers photo identification surveys, mark-recapture modelling, population ecology, and spatial ecology using R.
Focuses on movement ecology, biologging, and conservation management of marine top predators. Includes line-transect approaches, cetacean identification, distance sampling, density surface modelling, and species distribution modelling in R.
Provides foundational understanding of the physical marine environment, including tidal dynamics, water column structure, and shelf-sea processes that influence top predator distribution and prey availability.
Covers advanced quantitative approaches in marine ecology, including ecological modelling, statistical analysis, and data visualisation techniques essential for marine research and conservation.
Explores the diverse marine habitats around the School of Ocean Sciences, utilising the research vessel and small boats to study coastal and open-water ecosystems and their biodiversity.
Elective Opportunities
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the MSc Marine Top Predator Ecology should have a strong academic background in biological or oceanographic sciences. The program has limited capacity, so early application through Uni4Edu is strongly recommended to secure your place.
Academic Requirements
- Undergraduate DegreeMinimum 2:1 BSc (Honours) or equivalent in biological or oceanographic sciences
- Personal StatementMust demonstrate clear interest in advanced quantitative approaches and modelling in animal ecology and/or oceanography
- IT SkillsGood range of IT skills including word-processing, spreadsheets, presentation software, email, and internet proficiency
- Coding ExperiencePrevious experience of R, Python, MATLAB, ArcGIS, or QGIS preferred but not required
- Professional ApplicantsApplicants with equivalent professional qualifications or relevant practical experience will be considered on an individual basis
English Language Requirements
- IELTSOverall 7.0 with no element below 6.5
- Pre-sessional EnglishAvailable at Bangor University for those who do not meet the minimum English language requirement
- Other TestsContact Uni4Edu for the full range of accepted English language proficiency tests
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
Bangor University offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to support international postgraduate students. Over GBP 1,000,000 in bursaries and scholarships are available for new and returning students each year. Contact Uni4Edu for guidance on funding options that may apply to your circumstances.
Bangor University International Scholarship
Up to GBP 3,000 for postgraduate studentsA partial funding scholarship available to all international applicants on taught postgraduate courses. No separate application is required — all applicants are automatically considered based on criteria including academic performance, personal statement, and references.
Bangor Merit Scholarship
Up to GBP 10,000Awarded to high-achieving students demonstrating outstanding academic excellence. Available to both undergraduate and postgraduate recipients, with amounts varying based on individual merit and academic profile.
Commonwealth Shared Scholarships
Full funding (tuition, living allowance, travel)Jointly funded by Bangor University and the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission, these scholarships support students from eligible Commonwealth countries pursuing taught masters programmes. Contact Uni4Edu for eligibility details and application guidance.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
The MSc Marine Top Predator Ecology provides sound scientific knowledge of the marine environment and places strong emphasis on the key skills highly regarded by employers. Graduates can pursue careers across a wide range of disciplines in the UK and internationally, working in industry, universities, NGOs, and public sector organisations.
Potential Career Roles
Typical Employers
Rankings & Recognition
Bangor University is recognised nationally and internationally for its academic quality and research strength, particularly in environmental and ocean sciences. The university has been delivering academic excellence for over 135 years and continues to rank among leading institutions for marine and environmental disciplines.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Agriculture & Forestry | QS World University Rankings by Subject | Top 150 |
| Environmental Sciences | QS World University Rankings by Subject | Top 350 |
| Biology | QS World University Rankings by Subject | Top 650 |
| Psychology | QS World University Rankings by Subject | Top 350 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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