Overview of the programme
A Master of Science (MSc) in Animal Ecology is a graduate degree that studies the Animals and their Environment and the Ecosystem Processes. The programme is a two-year programme with course work and Thesis Research during the first and second year of study respectively. Students cover this programme through several topics including data analysis, Population Ecology, Community ecology, Ecological Techniques, Evolutionary Ecology, Physical environment, wildlife behaviors and remote sensing among others. During the second year of study, students undertake supervised research project for their Thesis.
Rationale of the programme
Conservation of natural resources is becoming increasingly important due to unprecedented change in climate and human population. Therefore, training on Animal ecology is important in understanding the dynamics to generate solutions for present and future. Secondly, animals鈥� behavior are changing daily as human development increases. This requires up to date information and hence the importance of the course. Kenya needs ecological studies for conservation purposes of our resources and agricultural purposes. Knowledge in Animal Ecology is very important as it helps us to have a deeper understanding of what is happening around a certain species. Incorporating science on board will help a lot in unravelling some of the mysteries surrounding animal behaviors and physiology. The country requires both the domestic and wild fauna for its growth and animal ecologists play a significant role in their existence. Kenya is rich in Wildlife resources and their habitats and Scientist are needed. Ecology is at the heart of conservation needs. The review of M.Sc. (Animal Ecology) programme was carried out in consultation with stakeholders who included potential employers, former graduates of the program, current students. With the many environmental, agricultural and biodiversity problems facing the world, including Kenya today there is a need to train individuals who can solve them using sustainable methods. This was strongly endorsed by stakeholder. The MSc (Animal Ecology) programme at 吃瓜头条 will equip graduates with skills to investigate the impact of humans on the environment, biodiversity and natural resources. The graduates will also be equipped with the relevant skills and knowledge to be able to apply ecological principles in solving many problems related to environmental degradation, natural resource management, climate change and conservation of biodiversity. Further, the graduates will have the potential to contribute in the achievement Development Goals and the economic and social pillars of the Kenya vision 2030.
Objectives of the programme
The programme aims at training graduates through transformative learning approaches to become professionals with adequate knowledge and skills in animal ecology, to be able to devise sustainable solutions to real world challenges through cutting-edge research and innovation for societal development.
Mode of delivery of the programme
The programme is delivered through both face-to-face as a regular programme and in a blended method as a Continuing Education Programme (CEP) A variety of approaches including lectures, tutorials, discussions, assignments, student presentations, laboratory and field-based practical lessons, and Thesis Research Project taken after the course work.
Admission requirements for the programme
The common regulations for all Masters鈥� degrees in the University shall apply. The general regulations for master鈥檚 degrees in the School of Pure and Applied Sciences shall apply. The following shall be eligible for registration in the Master of Science (Animal Ecology):
Career opportunities for the programme
Graduates holding M. Sc. in Animal Physiology can pursue careers in a wide range of opportunities: