Ecology Biodiversity

Study mode:On campus Study type:Full-time Languages: English
Local:$ 336 / Year(s) Foreign:$ 1.45 k / Year(s) Deadline: Jun 1, 2025
301–350 place StudyQA ranking:3851 Duration:4 years

The Master of Science in Ecology and Biodiversity at the University of Malaya offers a comprehensive academic program designed to equip students with an in-depth understanding of ecological principles and biodiversity conservation. This program is tailored for students passionate about environmental issues, conservation biology, and sustainable management of natural resources. Throughout the course, students will engage with a multidisciplinary curriculum that covers fundamental ecological theories, field research methodologies, species identification, habitat assessment, and the latest advancements in biodiversity conservation. The program emphasizes practical skills through extensive fieldwork, laboratory experiments, and research projects, enabling students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world environmental challenges. Graduates will be prepared to contribute effectively to environmental management agencies, research institutions, conservation organizations, and governmental bodies focused on preserving biodiversity and promoting ecological sustainability. The curriculum is delivered by experienced faculty members who are experts in their respective fields, ensuring high-quality education rooted in the latest scientific research. Students will have access to state-of-the-art laboratories, research facilities, and field sites across Malaysia, providing an immersive learning environment. The program also encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, integrating aspects of ecology, genetics, climate change, and policy development. By the end of the course, students will have developed strong research capabilities, critical thinking skills, and a professional network valuable for future career advancement in ecological and biodiversity fields. With Malaysia’s rich biodiversity, the program offers unique opportunities for students to study endemic species and ecosystems, making their research highly relevant and impactful. Graduates will be well-equipped to address global environmental challenges, advocate for sustainable practices, and contribute to biodiversity conservation initiatives, both locally and internationally. The Master of Science in Ecology and Biodiversity at the University of Malaya is an ideal choice for aspiring ecologists seeking a rigorous, research-driven education that combines academic excellence with practical experience in one of Southeast Asia’s most ecologically diverse regions.

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE ECOLOGY BIODIVERSITY SESSION 2016/2017
(125 CREDITS)

1. UNIVERSITY COURSES (23 CREDITS) 
Please refer to programme structure for Bachelor of Science
2. DEPARTMENT CORE COURSES (102 CREDITS)

(I) COMPULSORY COURSES ( 62 CREDITS)[TJ]

Level 1 (10 credits)
Compulsory Courses (10 credits)

Course Code

Course Name

Pre-Requisites

Credits

SHES 1200 Life Processes  

2

SHES 1201 Cell Biology  

2

SHES 1202 Biology of Organisms  

2

SHES 1203 Population Biology  

2

SHES 1270 Biology Practical Only for ISB students

2*

Level 2 (35 credits)
Compulsory Courses (18 credits)
Choose ONE module, A or B
 

(A) BOTANY (18 credit hours)

 

SHEE 2301 Systematic Botany Pass SHES 1200/1201/1202/1203/1270

3*

SHEE 2302 Fundamental Mycology Pass SHES 1202

3*

SHEE 2303 Lower Plants Pass SHES 1200/1201/1202/1203/1270

3*

SHEE 2304 Higher Plants Pass SHES 1200/1201/1202/1203/1270

3*

SHEE 2305 Plant Structure and Function Pass SHES 1200/1201/1202/1203/1270

3*

SHEE 2306 Physiology and Molecular Biology of Plants Pass SHES 1202/1203/1270

3*

(B) ZOOLOGY (18 credit hours)

SHEE 2311 Systematic Zoology Pass SHES 1200/1201/1202/1203/1270

3*

SHEE 2312 Protozoa and Invertebrata I Pass SHES 1200/1201/1202/1203/1270

3*

SHEE 2313 Invertebrata II Pass SHES 1200/1201/1202/1203/1270

3*

SHEE 2314 Vertebrata I Pass SHES 1202

3*

SHEE 2315 Vertebrata II Pass SHES 1200/1201/1202/1203/1270

3*

SHEE 2316 Animal Physiology Pass SHES 1200/1201/1202/1203/1270

3*

Compulsory Courses (17 credits)

(C) ECOLOGY (17 credit hours)

SHEE 2121 Population and Community Ecology Pass SHES 1200/1201/1202/1203/1270, SXEX 1101

3*

SHEE 2122 Terrestrial Ecology Pass SHES 1202/1203/1270

3*

SHEE 2123 Aquatic Ecology Pass SHES 1200/1201/1202/1203/1270

3*

SHEE 2124 Behavioural Ecology and Ethology Pass SHES 1200/1201/1202/1203/1270

3*

SHEE 2125 Quantitative Ecology Pass SHES 1200/1201/1202/1203/1270

3*

SHEE 2126 Molecular Genetics and Ecology  

2*

Level 3 (37 credits)
Compulsory course ( 7 credits)
SHEE 3198 Industrial Training in Ecology and Biodiversity Completed 4 normal semesters and 45 credits of core courses

5*

SHEE 3101 Biodiversity Governance Pass SHES 1202

2

(II) ELECTIVE COURSES OF DEPARTMENT (15 CREDITS) [EJ]

Choose ONE module: D or E
 

(D) APPLIED BOTANY (15 credits)

 

SHEE 3301 Economic Botany Pass SHEE 2304

3*

SHEE 3302 Plant Diseases Pass SHES 1202

3*

SHEE 3303 Applied Mycology Pass SHES 1201

3*

SHEE 3304 Applied Phycology Pass SHES 1202

3*

SHEE 3305 Ecology and Management of Weeds Pass SHES 1200, 1202, 1203; SXEX 1101

3*

(E) APPLIED ZOOLOGY (15 credits)

SHEE 3310 Parasitology Pass SHES 1200/1201/1202/1203/1270, SHEE 2311, 2312, 2313

3*

SHEE 3311 Economic Entomology  

3*

SHEE 3312 Integrated Pest Management Pass SHES 1200/1201/1202/1203/1270

3*

SHEE 3313 Ecotoxicology  

3*

SHEE 3314 Urban Zoology  

3*

ELECTIVE COURSES OF DEPARTMENT (15 CREDITS) [EJ]
Choose only ONE module: F or G, and one course from non-selected module

(F) CONSERVATION (12 credits)

SHEE 3321 Conservation Biology Pass SHES 1202

3*

SHEE 3322 Biogeography, Biodiversity and Conservation Pass SHES 1202, 1203, 1270

3*

SHEE 3323 Soil Ecology and Management Pass SHEE 2122

3*

SHEE 3324 Curatorial Techniques in Biology Pass SHEE 2303/2304 and SHEE 2314/2315

3*

(G) AQUATIC ECOLOGY AND MANAGEMENT (12 credits)

SHEE 3330 Ecology of Coral Reefs Pass SHES 1200/1201/1202/1203/1270

3*

SHEE 3331 Wetlands Ecology and Management Pass SHES 1200/1201/1202/1203/1270

3*

SHEE 3332 Fisheries Ecology and Management  

3*

SHEE 3333 Aquaculture Pass SHES 1200/1201/1202/1203/1270

3*

Level 4 (10 credits)
SEMESTER 7
SHEE 3188 Research Project in Ecology and Biodiversity Pass all Level 1 and Level 2 courses

10* +

Students to fulfil their minimum total credit hours for graduating by taking any offered Year 3 courses, compulsory or elective

(I) ELECTIVE COURSES OF FACULTY ( 10 CREDITS) [EF]
*Courses Offered by Other Institute/Department of Specialisation 
(Please refer to courses offered by other institutes or departments within the Faculty of Science)

Program requirements for the Bachelor of Ecology and Biodiversity at the University of Malaya typically include a combination of core courses, electives, laboratory work, and a final project or dissertation. Prospective students must possess a minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) as specified by the university, often around 2.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. Applicants are expected to have completed SPM or equivalent qualifications with good credits in relevant science subjects such as Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics.

Foundation in Biology and Environmental Science is essential, enabling students to grasp fundamental ecological concepts, biodiversity conservation, and environmental management. English language proficiency is also required, with applicants needing to meet the university’s standards, usually through tests like TOEFL or IELTS if applicable. The program emphasizes hands-on laboratory and fieldwork experience, necessitating active participation in practical sessions, field excursions, and research activities. Students are expected to complete a series of prerequisite courses in biology, ecology, environmental science, chemistry, and mathematics during their first years.

Additionally, the program may encourage or require participation in workshops, seminars, and internships to enhance practical skills and industry exposure. Capstone research projects or dissertations are integral, demanding students to undertake independent research under faculty supervision, demonstrating their ability to analyze ecological data, evaluate biodiversity trends, and propose conservation strategies. Admission may also consider relevant extracurricular activities, previous research experience, and commitment to biodiversity conservation.

Graduates should fulfill specific credit requirements, typically around 120-140 credit hours, spread over the duration of the program (usually 3-4 years). These credits include coursework, research, and practical training components. Successful completion of all coursework, research projects, and internships, along with meeting the minimum attendance and participation standards, is mandatory for graduation. The program aims to produce graduates with comprehensive knowledge of ecological systems, biodiversity conservation, research skills, and the ability to apply scientific principles to real-world environmental challenges.


Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

  • ✔️ Flexible study schedule
  • ✔️ Experienced teachers
  • ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Ecology and Biodiversity program at the University of Malaya offers various financing options to support students throughout their studies. Tuition fees for local students are structured according to the university’s fee schedule, which is periodically reviewed and adjusted. For international students, the fees are typically higher, reflecting the additional costs associated with overseas study. The program provides several scholarships and financial aid opportunities aimed at outstanding students, including merit-based scholarships, research grants, and tuition fee waivers. These scholarships are open to both local and international students, with eligibility criteria that often include academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and financial need.

The university also collaborates with government agencies, private sector partners, and non-governmental organizations to offer external funding options. These external grants often require applicants to demonstrate research potential or specific financial circumstances. Additionally, students may have opportunities to earn part-time income within the university, such as tutoring or research assistantships, which can help offset living expenses and educational costs.

Prospective students are advised to apply early for scholarships and to contact the university’s financial aid office for detailed information about available funding sources, application procedures, and deadlines. The university’s plan encourages inclusivity and aims to ensure that financial barriers do not prevent talented students from pursuing studies in Ecology and Biodiversity. Furthermore, the university provides guidance and counseling on financial planning and management throughout the course of study.

Overall, financing studies at the University of Malaya’s Ecology and Biodiversity program involves a combination of tuition fees, scholarships, external funding, and part-time opportunities, designed to make the program accessible to a diverse student body.

The Bachelor of Science in Ecology and Biodiversity at the University of Malaya is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for careers in environmental conservation, research, and management. This program emphasizes the study of ecosystems, species interactions, and the sustainability of natural resources. Students will gain a thorough understanding of biological diversity at various levels, including genetic, species, and ecosystem diversity, alongside practical skills in fieldwork, data analysis, and scientific research methods.

The curriculum incorporates coursework in ecology, conservation biology, taxonomy, environmental science, and landscape management. Students are also encouraged to participate in internships, field expeditions, and collaborative projects with local conservation agencies, enhancing their practical experience. Faculty members are renowned experts in the field of biodiversity and ecology, providing mentorship and guidance on research initiatives that contribute to national and global biodiversity conservation efforts.

Research plays a crucial role in the program, with students having opportunities to work on ongoing projects related to habitat preservation, endemic species, and the impacts of climate change. The university's facilities, including laboratories, greenhouses, and research stations, support a hands-on learning approach. Graduates of this program are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue careers as ecologists, environmental consultants, biodiversity managers, and researchers.

Furthermore, the program aims to instill a strong sense of environmental responsibility and ethical considerations in students, fostering a new generation of professionals dedicated to sustainable development and biodiversity preservation. The interdisciplinary nature of the curriculum integrates biology, environmental policy, and social sciences, preparing graduates for leadership roles in managing Malaysia’s rich and diverse ecosystems. Opportunities for postgraduate studies are also available at the university, enabling students to further specialize or engage in advanced research in ecology and biodiversity.

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