MSc Plant Diversity

Full-time 12 months

Part-time study may be available

www.reading.ac.uk/biologicalsciences

This programme will be of interest to those wishing to make a career in plant ecology, evolutionary biology, conservation or plant identification and vegetation survey, or wishing for a substantial preparation for a research degree in the area. It is run in association with the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, and the Natural History Museum, London. Specialisations are available in:

• Taxonomy and Evolution

• Biodiversity and Conservation

• Vegetation Survey and Assessment.

Programme content

There are two terms of formal teaching by lectures, tutorials and practical work, followed by an intensive molecular course, examinations and a field programme. A research project is undertaken from May to September. In appropriate cases this may be supervised in association with staff from the outside institutions. The range of options available in the first two terms is constantly revised, but currently includes, among others:

• Diversity and Identification of Plants

• Vegetation Survey and Assessment

• Global Biodiversity and Conservation

• Professional and Research Skills

• Critical Discussion of Botanical Literature

• GIS for Wildlife Managers

In the Easter vacation students can choose between a short intensive course in molecular systematics and a field course in Spain.

Careers

The course has a strong focus on providing training in areas where there are substantial skill gaps in the UK, namely the intersections

of field botany, taxonomy and biodiversity informatics. Employers of recent graduates include the Royal Horticultural Society, the Royal

Botanic Gardens, Kew, specialist ecological consultancies and nature conservation organisations.