Biodiversity and Ecology

Specific Admission Requirements
The number of places available and the eligibility criteria for candidates are announced by the Graduate School. Documents that must be attached to the application include:

• Bachelor’s degree from a recognized University.
• Previous University education in a suitable subject (academic background) and transcripts of grades of relevant degrees.
• Letters of recommendation.
• Personal interview and/or written examination (at the Department’s discretion).

The Department may also consider additional criteria and quality indicators for the selection of candidates, including: (a) publications in scientific journals, (b) participation in seminars, symposia, research programs, (c) presentations at conferences, (d) knowledge of foreign languages, and (e) professional experience.

English Language Knowledge
To be considered for postgraduate studies, the applicant is required to have certification for “Very Good Knowledge” of English at level B2-C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Acceptable certificates that prove Very Good Knowledge of English are listed on the Graduate School website and on the table of Matching results of international examinations with the CEFR. The University of Cyprus Language Centre Certificate for the knowledge of English language (level B2+) is also accepted.

Applicants who have acquired their University degrees from English-taught Schools are not required to provide proof of English language proficiency.

Profile of Programme
The Master’s Degree in Biodiversity and Ecology aims at providing students with high quality education of international standing, so that that they can develop a deep understanding of their science and a versatile thinking, something critical for their professional career in the modern environment.
The Program entails theoretical coursework as well as a laboratory-based or a literature-based dissertation.
Graduates may continue their studies in postgraduate programmes in Cyprus or abroad, or find employment including in education, aquaculture, organic farming, environmental impact studies, environmental management, biodiversity conservation and similar.

Key Learning Outcomes
Education of new scientists at the postgraduate level, that are competitive in the European and international realm.

Upon successful completion of their studies, graduates will be able:

1. to apply their knowledge in practice,
2. to transfer their knowledge of biology to students and to the society in general,
3. to satisfy professional requirements for career fields such as biomedicine, laboratory testing, environmental studies, biotechnology, sustainable use of biological resources etc.,
4. to adapt to technological advancements and new knowledge in the field,
5. to work independently or in groups at an international and/or interdisciplinary level,
6. generate new ideas and scientific knowledge,
7. respect diversity, multiculturalism and the natural environment,
8. demonstrate social, professional and moral responsibility and sensitivity to gender issues,
9. view themselves as well as others critically,
10. promote free, inductive and deductive thinking

Occupational Profiles of Graduates with Examples
The graduates of the MSc in Biodiversity and Ecology Program can be employed as specialized personnel in both the private and the public sectors. Developing fields that require an increasing demand for specialized personnel trained in biodiversity and ecology include organic farming, aquaculture, environmental assessments, environmental impact studies, management of protected areas/species, implementation of national and international conventions and strategies on biodiversity related issues, etc. Finally, employment in the education sector is also a possibility.