Master in Resource Conservation Biology

The application deadline for the Oct 2027 intake is Oct 31, 2026; tuition comes to 25,150 ZAR per year.

The Master in Resource Conservation Biology is a one-year program at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg in South Africa. It's for students who have completed a Bachelor's degree and want to learn about conservation biology. The program is taught in English and includes a research project and elective courses.

The curriculum covers topics like biodiversity, statistical research, and ecosystem processes. Students take six elective courses, including ones like Conserving Biodiversity and Sustaining Populations & Resources. They also complete a research report based on investigations over six months.

Graduates can work as Conservation Biologists, Environmental Consultants, or Sustainability Leaders. They can also find jobs as Research Scientists or Wildlife Managers. Employers include government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private companies that focus on environmental conservation.

The University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, known as Wits, is a prominent research-intensive university founded in 1922 and located in one of Africa’s most vibrant cities. With a student body exceeding 42,000 and a diverse international community, Wits offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across humanities, sciences, engineering, health sciences, and business. Its urban campus provides access to cultural institutions, industry partners, and public sector organizations for experiential learning.

Wits is recognized for rigorous research and strong professional programs, offering 322 distinct programs that combine theoretical depth with practical training. The university’s academic environment supports innovation through research centers, clinical training partnerships, and industry collaborations that help students build professional networks. International students benefit from dedicated support services, orientation programs, and resources to assist with visas, accommodations, and academic advising, helping them integrate into campus life and pursue career ambitions.

Campus life at Wits is dynamic, with active student societies, sporting opportunities, and cultural events that reflect Johannesburg’s diversity. Graduates join a broad alumni network and often find career pathways in South Africa and abroad. Prospective students should explore program-specific entry requirements, funding and scholarship options, and early engagement with faculty to tailor their study plans to research interests or professional objectives.