University of Queensland
Master of Conservation Biology
- Delivery: Face to Face
- Study Level: Postgraduate
- Duration: 12 months
- Course Type: Master's
Gain a comprehensive education in the ecosystems and evolutionary potential of the world's flora and fauna.
Course overview
Learn from some of the world’s leading conservation biology researchers and have access to UQ's renowned facilities, including those in the Centre for Biodiversity and Conservation Science and the Centre for Marine Science. Deepen your understanding of all aspects of biodiversity and conservation, environmental philosophy, national and international conservation policy and systematic conservation decision-making processes. In addition to advanced-level coursework, you'll complete a variety of fieldwork teaching at unique sites, such as subtropical rainforests, national parks and UQ’s research stations at Heron Island, Moreton Bay and Hidden Vale.
Discover how to use science to support conservation strategies and policies with a focus on the problems of restoring and maintaining viable populations of animal and plant species and natural and managed ecosystems. You'll graduate ready to confront complex conservation problems. This program is taught in an intensive mode that allows you to complete the equivalent of one-and-a-half academic years in just 12 months.
CSP Subsidised Fees Available
This program has a limited quota of Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP). The indicative CSP price is calculated based on first year fees for EFT. The actual fee may vary if there are choices in electives or majors.
Key facts
30th November, 2026
What you will study
Students must complete 24 units comprising:
- 22 units for MConsBiol Core Courses
- Two units from MConsBiol Program Elective Courses
Each course is valued at two units.
MConsBiol Core Courses
Complete 22 units comprising:
- Two units for all MConsSc Teaching Period 5 Core Course
- Eight units for all MConsBiol Semester Two Core Courses
- Six units for all MConsBiol Summer Semester and Teaching Period 2 Core Courses
- Six units for all MConsBiol Semester One Core Courses
MConsSc Teaching Period 5 Core Course
Complete two units for:
- Conservation in Context
MConsBiol Semester Two Core Courses
Complete eight units for all of the following:
- Conservation and Wildlife Biology
- Sampling Design and Analysis in Conservation Science
- Conservation Policy OR Strategies for Sustainable Systems Transition
- Environmental Philosophy
MConsBiol Summer Semester and Teaching Period 2 Core Courses
Complete six units for all of the following:
- Space Invaders: Invasive Species, Field Skills and GIS Mapping
- Marine Conservation
- Rainforest Conservation
MConsBiol Semester One Core Courses
Complete six units for all of the following:
- Conservation and Agriculture
- Environmental Problem Solving
- Geographical Information Systems
Entry requirements
To be eligible for entry, you'll need one of the following:
- A bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline (see below).
- A graduate certificate in conservation biology.
You must have a grade point average (GPA) of 5.0 on a 7-point scale in your previous qualification. The Master of Conservation Biology is a 24-unit program delivered in the regular University semesters as well as in shorter intensive teaching periods, to enable the program to be completed in 12 months.
Relevant disciplines for previous qualifications
Relevant disciplines include botany, conservation, ecology, environmental studies, evolution, mathematics or statistics, marine science and zoology.
Recognition of Prior Learning
Your previous studies can be acknowledged as credit towards your postgraduate studies, provided that they meet the relevant course requirements.
If you receive an offer of enrolment and you’ve undertaken prior learning, you may be eligible to apply for Recognition of Prior Learning. The procedure is governed by the university's Recognition of Prior Learning policy. Contact the university for more details.
Outcomes
Career outcomes
This postgraduate study can take you anywhere. Here are some of the careers you could be on your way to:
- Endangered Species Ecologist
- Biodiversity Educator
- National Parks and Wildlife Officer
- Natural Resources Manager
- Policy Developer
- Agribusiness Consultant
- Zoologist
- Bush Regeneration Consultant
- Ecotourism Manager
- Environment and Sustainability Consultant
Fees and CSP
Indicative annual fee in 2026: $10,495 (Commonwealth Supported Place)
All costs are calculated using current rates and are based on a study load of 16 units (normally eight courses) per year.
Student fees may vary in accordance with:
- The number of courses studied per term.
- The choice of major or specialisation.
- Choice of courses.
- Credit from previous study or work experience.
- Eligibility for government-funded loans.
You may also need to pay the student services and amenities fee.
Student fees shown are subject to change. Contact the university directly to confirm.
Commonwealth Supported Places
The Australian Government allocates a certain number of CSPs to the universities each year, which are then distributed to students based on merit.
If you're a Commonwealth Supported Student (CSS), you'll only need to pay a portion of your tuition fees. This is known as the student contribution amount – the balance once the government subsidy is applied. This means your costs are much lower.
Limited CSP spaces are offered to students enrolled in selected postgraduate courses.
Your student contribution amount is:
- Calculated per the course you're enrolled in.
- Dependent on the study areas they relate to.
- Reviewed and adjusted each year.
HECS-HELP loans are available to CSP students to pay the student contribution amount.