Introduction

The Masters of Science in Biodiversity Conservation was established in 2005 in response to the urgent need for qualified conservationists to guide Cambodia towards sustainable development, address existing knowledge gaps, and uphold the nation’s commitments to conserving its biodiversity.

The Masters programme is jointly delivered by Fauna & Flora International and the Royal University of Phnom Penh, with assistance from a diverse range of academics and professionals around the world. Donors include the Darwin Initiative (UK), the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation (US), US Fish and Wildlife Service and the Zoological Parks and Gardens Board of Victoria (Australia).

The programme is designed to provide students with essential knowledge, skills and experience in conservation biology and in the management and sustainable use of natural resources. This includes:

• A firm grounding in contemporary ecological and conservation management theory, and knowledge of project management and strategic planning
• Real life and transferable experience in designing and undertaking field research, data analysis and interpretation, reporting and presentation
• Outstanding opportunities to conduct original research and conservation projects with government agencies, non-government organisations (NGOs) and overseas universities and institutions.

Students completing the Masters are ideally equipped to enter the fast-growing sectors of biodiversity conservation and natural resource management in Cambodia and Southeast Asia. The skills and knowledge provided are especially relevant to the work of government environmental and development departments, consultancy firms and contractors, non-governmental organisations, international agencies, and donors.

On completion of the programme, students with outstanding potential are also eligible for employment with the Centre for Biodiversity Conservation at the Royal University of Phnom Penh.