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ACADEMICS

We aim to become an internationally recognized M. Sc. program dedicated to training competent and capable biologists and conservation leaders in Mozambique. Our students acquire comprehensive knowledge of conservation science, which allows them to become successful researchers and managers of the country’s biological resources. We strive to impart dedication to conservation and sustainable development and teach our students to approach to conservation from a proactive, ethical perspective. 

 
If you are a Mozambican student with an undergraduate degree in the natural sciences, a love of fieldwork, and a passion for conservation, consider the Gorongosa Master’s in Conservation Biology Program. An international faculty of professors will introduce you to the latest conservation science and support you in the classroom, field, and in the development of your own thesis research. The master’s program runs for two years and is divided between course work and research and thesis writing. Your tenure as a master’s student will culminate with a public and private academic defense of your thesis work.
 
Because our courses are taught by invited faculty from institutions around the work, they run as short-term, intensive modules. Be prepared for an academic challenge as you stretch to learn new material, manage a demanding schedule, and generate high quality work.You will take 66 credits (30 hours of study per credit) of required courses and a minimum of 24 credits of optional courses.  The remaining 30 credits of the program are based on independent thesis research and writing

List of courses commonly offered in the master’s program

Required

  • Research and thesis I
  • Statistics and research design
  • Techniques in molecular biology
  • Plant biology and ecology
  • Introduction to conservation biology
  • GIS
  • Science communication
  • Integrated methods in conservation biology
  • Evolution
  • Bioinformatics
  • Politics of conservation and governance
  • Research and thesis II

Optional

  • Bird Ecology and Conservation 
  • Mammal ecology and conservation
  • Culture, land-use, and the environment
  • Conservation genetics
  • Perspectives and methods in conservation social science research
  • Entomology:  Insect biodiversity, ecology, and conservation of African ecosystems
  • Ecology and conservation of amphibians and reptiles
  • Conflict and Conservation
  • Economics of natural resources
  • Conservation, ecotourism, and rural development
  • Applied pollination biology
Mozambican Students attend a workshop in the E.O. Wilson Laboratory at Gorongosa National Park. Mozambique

Academics

We aim to become an internationally recognized M.Sc. program dedicated to training competent and capable biologists and conservation leaders in Mozambique. Our students acquire comprehensive knowledge of conservation science, which allows them to become successful researchers and managers of the country’s biological resources.  Learn More.  

Admissions

Registration for the Master in Conservation Biology in Gorongosa National Park closed on November 3, 2023. Thank you for your interest. 

 

 

Faculty

The Gorongosa Master’s in Conservation Biology faculty consists of a talented, knowledgeable team of professors who generously donate their time to teach intensive courses in the master’s curriculum. Faculty members also act as thesis advisors to students and help them in the design and development of their research. We are very grateful for our amazingly dedicated faculty from around the world! Learn More

Information for Faculty

Our incredible guest faculty make the Gorongosa Master’s in Conservation Biology Program possible. We are extremely grateful for your time and dedication to promoting conservation through education. Learn More. 

Our Consortium Partners

The Gorongosa Master’s in Conservation Biology Program is made possible through partnerships with three Mozambican institutions, the Universidade Lúrio, Universidade Zambeze, and the Instituto Superior Politécnico de Manica, in partnership with the Universidade de Lisboa. Our consortium partners help ensure our academic excellence and provide the institutional and administrative support necessary to run a master’s program housed in a national park. Learn more. 

Student Life

Students in the Gorongosa Master’s in Conservation Biology Program have the rare privilege of calling Gorongosa National Park their home for two years. Learn more. 

Student Research

Our students conduct their thesis research on an impressive variety of topics in Gorongosa National Park and its buffer zone. See here for a list of current research projects. 

Mission

Vision

To become recognized nationally and internationally as a master’s program that prepares professionals capable of contributing to conservation through biodiversity research and effective management.

Mission

To provide master’s students the highest quality education possible in conservation biology in Mozambique. Students will graduate with ample scientific knowledge and will be capable of conducting research and working in conservation management. Graduates will be critical thinkers, have high ethical standards, and a strong sense of compassion. These qualities will guide them in their work in conservation and sustainable development.

Learn More

Read Our Annual report