Evolution: From the Galapagos to the 21st Century (MRes)

You’ll need a 2:1 degree.

Find the equivalent international qualifications for your country. 

English language requirements

If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need all of the following scores as a minimum:

We accept other English language tests. Find out which English language tests we accept.

Recognition of professional experience

If you don't have the exact entry requirements, but you have significant work experience in this sector we’ll assess your relevant professional experience, your subject knowledge and your aptitude for learning.

Your application will be considered on individual merit and you may be asked to attend an interview.

Got a question?

Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.

Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000

On the full-time master’s course you’ll study for a full 12 months. 

You’ll study the taught part of the course from September to May (semesters 1 and 2). This is made up of 3 compulsory modules and a module we’ll ask you to choose from a list of options.  

The Galapagos field course takes place in September. Written exams take place at the end of semesters 1 and 2. 

You’ll work on an extended research-based project throughout the year and submit your dissertation in August.

Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.

Learning

The learning activities for this course include: 

• lectures 
• workshops 
• practical classes 
• coursework 
• an extended research project 

Assessment

We’ll assess you through: 

• tutorials 
• practical work 
• projects 
• presentations 
• written exams 
• a dissertation 

Dissertation

You'll carry out a major piece of original research on a topic of your choice, in agreement with your supervisor, and write up your work in a dissertation. 

You’ll spend 1,100 hours of independent study writing your research proposal, collecting and analysing data, and writing your dissertation. 

You’ll have regular support meetings with your supervisor throughout the year. 

Academic Support

We'll assign you a personal academic tutor, and you'll have access to a senior tutor.

With this degree you’ll be well placed for a career in a range of industries, such as: 

• biotechnology 
• pharmaceutical 
• agricultural 

You’ll also be in an ideal position to continue your research at PhD level. 

Careers services at Southampton

We're a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022). Our Careers and Employability Service will support you throughout your time as a student and for up to 5 years after graduation. This support includes:

• work experience schemes
• CV/resume and interview skills workshops
• networking events
• careers fairs attended by top employers
• a wealth of volunteering opportunities
• study abroad and summer school opportunities

We have a thriving entrepreneurship culture. You'll be able to take advantage of:

• our dedicated start-up incubator, Futureworlds
• a wide variety of enterprise events run throughout the year
• our partnership in the world’s number 1 business incubator, SETsquared

Tuition fees

Fees for a year's study:

• UK students pay £14,600.
• EU and international students pay £28,000.

Check fees for other versions of this course.

What your fees pay for

Your tuition fee covers the full cost of tuition and any exams.

Find out how to pay your tuition fees.

Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. Explore:

• accommodation costs

• living costs

• budgeting advice

10% alumni discount

If you’re a graduate of the University of Southampton you get a 10% discount on your postgraduate tuition fees.

Postgraduate Master’s Loans (UK nationals only)

This can help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate master's course. Find out if you're eligible.

Funding your postgraduate studies

A variety of additional funding options may be available to help you pay for your master’s study. Both from the University and other organisations.

Funding for EU and international students

Find out about funding you could get as an international student.

1. Use the 'apply for this course' button on this page to take you to our online application form.
2. Search for the course you want to apply for.
3. Complete the application form and upload any supporting documents.
4. Submit your application.

Application deadlines

UK students

Make sure we receive your application at least 4 weeks before the start of the course. This gives us time to consider your application, if there are still places available.

International students

Make sure we receive your application at least 6 weeks before the start of the course.

This gives us time to consider your application, if there are still places available. It will also give you time to apply for a visa if we offer you a place.

Supporting information

When you apply you’ll need to submit a personal statement explaining why you want to take the course. 

You’ll need to include information about: 

• your knowledge of the subject area
• why you want to study a postgraduate qualification in this course
• how you intend to use your qualification

You'll also need to send 2 academic references. 

Please include the required paperwork showing your first degree and your IELTS English language test score (if you are a non-native English speaker) with your application. Without these, your application may be delayed.

What happens after you apply

You'll be able to track your application through our online Applicant Record System.

We'll assess your application on the strength of your:

• academic achievements
• relevant professional experience
• personal statement
• academic references

We will aim to send you a decision 6-8 weeks after you have submitted your application.

If we offer you a place, you will need to accept the offer within 30 working days. If you do not meet this deadline, we will offer your place to another applicant.

Unfortunately, due to the volume of applications we receive, we may not be able to give you specific feedback on your application if you are unsuccessful.

We may invite you to an interview, which will take place by phone if you live abroad. You'll get an email from the admissions tutor if we'd like to talk to you before offering you a place.

Equality and diversity

We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.

Got a question?

Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.

Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000