Master's Programme in Ethology, 120 ECTS

Ethology is the branch of biological sciences that examines the behaviour of animals. The Master’s programme provides a broad insight into the complete subject. You will study how animals communicate and solve conflicts, the social structure of animal communities, pair formation and reproduction in animals, and how competition and co-operation can be developed. The evolution and function of behaviour are discussed, as are how behaviour is formed during the life of the individual and how learning and experience influence inherited patterns of behaviour for further adaptation to the environment in which the individual lives. A knowledge of ethology is important in many fields of biology, including ecology, evolutionary biology and conservation biology. It also has applications outside of the scientific sphere. Ethology is needed within all areas in which humans use animals to secure their existence or for pleasure. One important requirement for ethology arises when the requirements of ethical treatment of animals arises and the animals’ well-being is to be ensured. The programme includes lectures, seminars and practical studies in the natural world, either in a laboratory or at our research station. The following courses are compulsory within the programme: Ethology II (7.5 hp), Ethics and Animal Welfare (7.5 hp), Human Ethology (7.5 hp), and a degree project in ethology for 30-60 hp. In addition, selected and freely selected courses for a minimum of 37.5 hp are included. The programme requires previous knowledge of ethology corresponding to the Bachelor course Ethology I (15 hp). (This course can be read within the framework of the Master’s programme.) The Master’s Programme in Ethology aims to provide the background required for continued work within those parts of society in which aspects of animal behaviour are important. In addition to fundamental research at a university, ethologists work in such fields as domestic animals, conservation biology, zoos, the pharmaceuticals industry, and animal welfare.