MSc Palaeobiology
- MSc
Overview
Why Palaeobiology?
The MSc in Palaeobiology is a research-focused course taught by experts in the field. You will learn cutting-edge research techniques and apply them to current questions in evolution, palaeontology and the history of life. These include computational skills in data handling, phylogenetics, macroevolution, functional analysis and 3D digital modelling. You will learn how to analyse problems quantitatively and design experimental approaches to resolving questions in macroevolution and the study of both ancient and living organisms.
In addition, you will develop a wide range of professional skills, including research planning, problem-solving and communication. You will learn to present palaeontological data through talks, visual displays and formal written reports.
You will carry out a novel research project supervised by an expert researcher in the field. A key aspect of the programme is preparing your research project for publication, and many previous students' projects have been published in international scientific journals.
Find out more about the programme, student experience and graduate destinations in our Palaeobiology MSc blog.
Why Bristol?
Bristol is ranked fifth in the UK and joint 18th globally in 'Earth and Marine Sciences' (QS University World Rankings 2026).
As a Palaeobiology MSc student, you will join a large and vibrant group of researchers from around the world. We explore all aspects of the history of the biosphere. From macroevolution to mass extinctions, we learn from the deep past to inform our predictions of the future. We draw on a wide range of expertise, from using microfossils to explore how climate change affects ecosystems, to applying biomechanical approaches to study feeding and locomotion in extinct vertebrates.
We have a suite of modern research facilities, including microscopy, photography and computing labs, a CT scanner, wet laboratory spaces, and specialised fossil preparation equipment.
Programme structure
The first part of the programme consists of lectures, practical classes, tutorials and visiting speakers, designed to provide a strong foundation in the theory and latest methodology of the subject.
The final part of the programme consists of a research project leading to a written thesis. You will gain project-specific training in professional skills and research methods and learn to prepare your research for publication in an academic journal.
Visit our programme catalogue for full details of the structure and unit content for our MSc in Palaeobiology.
Entry requirements
You will typically need an upper second-class honours degree or an international equivalent in any Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics subject (including Anthropology and Archaeology).
Other degree subjects may be considered on a case-by-case basis if you can demonstrate relevant work experience in laboratories or museums; or roles within the Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics fields (including fieldwork, university or industry roles).
We will consider your application if your interim grades are currently slightly lower than the programme's entry requirements and may make you an aspirational offer. This offer would be at the standard level, so you would need to achieve the standard entry requirements by the end of your degree.
We will also consider your application if your final overall achieved grade is slightly lower than the programme's entry requirement.
If your achieved grade is lower than our entry requirements, your application may be more likely to receive an offer if you have additional relevant work experience or qualifications. If you have at least one of the following, please include your CV (curriculum vitae / résumé) when you apply, showing:
- evidence of relevant work experience in laboratory work, museum roles, STEM university, industry or fieldwork roles (minimum one week full-time paid or internship). Online STEM courses may also be accepted
- a relevant postgraduate qualification.
See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.
Read the programme admissions statement for important information on entry requirements, the application process and supporting documents required.
If English is not your first language, you will need to reach the requirements outlined in our profile level E.
Further information about English language requirements and profile levels.
Fees and funding
- Home: full-time
- £14,300 per year
- Home: part-time (two years)
- £7,150 per year
- Overseas: full-time
- £31,400 per year
Fees are subject to an annual review. For programmes that last longer than one year, please budget for up to an 8% increase in fees each year.
More about tuition fees, living costs and financial support.
Bench fees
£550. Further information about bench fees can be found on our webpages. Confirmation of bench fees will be stated in the offer letter sent to applicants.
Alumni discount
University of Bristol students and graduates can benefit from a 25% reduction in tuition fees for postgraduate study. Check your eligibility for an alumni discount.
Funding and scholarships
Further information on funding for prospective UK and international postgraduate students.
Career prospects
The degree is research-based and many of our graduates go on to academic careers, usually starting with a PhD, with graduates holding academic positions around the world. The MSc is focused on equipping you with the latest quantitative and analytical techniques highly sought after by PhD supervisors globally. The training in professional skills, including writing scientific papers, is also highly regarded.
The range of technical and transferrable skills provide a strong preparation for a wide range of careers. Some graduates from the programme hold senior positions as curators and collection managers in national and regional museums around the world. Others have gone on to work in science policy (for example at the UK Met Office), science media (for example at New Scientist), education, data science or industry.
Contact us
- Contact
- Enquiries Team
- Phone
- +44 (0) 117 394 1649
- choosebristol-pg@bristol.ac.uk
- Faculties
- Schools