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

You’ll need a 2:1 degree.

We may also consider 2:2 degrees when discussed with the course lead.

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.

If you don’t meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.

Pre-masters

If you don’t meet the academic requirements, you can complete a pre-master's programme through our partnership with OnCampus. Learn more about the programmes available.

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 this full-time Master’s course, you’ll study for 12 months. 

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

You’ll also study the taught part of the course from September to May (semesters 1 and 2). This comprises 2 compulsory modules and a module you’ll select from a list of options.

We assess modules using various methods. These modules give you the chance to learn about pioneering methods and topics within modern evolutionary biology.

The Galapagos field course takes place in August. 

Written exams take place at the end of semesters 1 and 2. 

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

Learning

The learning activities for this course depend on your module choices, but they will likely include: 

• lectures 
• workshops 
• coursework 
• an extended research project 

Assessment

We’ll assess you through: 

• projects (depending on module choice)
• presentations 
• written exams (depending on module choice)
• 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.

An important factor of this MRes is skills development. You’ll learn how to take measurements confidently, understand your uncertainty, and analyse the impact of your measurements on our knowledge of the biological world, specifically the evolution of life.

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

• lab research
• biotechnology 
• agriculture
• science communication and education
• data analytics
• environmental consultancy

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

We're a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022). Our Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise team 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

Alumni are eligible for a 10% discount. This includes former study abroad and exchange students.

Fees for a year's study:

• UK students pay £16,800.
• EU and international students pay £33,900.

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. The fee you pay will remain the same each year from when you start studying this course. This includes if you suspend and return.

Find out how to pay your tuition fees.

Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. There may also be extra costs for retake and professional exams.

Explore:

• accommodation costs
• living costs
• budgeting advice
• fees, charges and expenses regulations

10% alumni discount

If you’re a graduate of the University of Southampton, you could be eligible for 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 blue 'apply for this course' button on this page to take you to our postgraduate admissions system.
2. Create an account which gives you access to your own application portal. . 
3. Search for the course you want to apply for.
4. Complete the application form and upload any supporting documents.
5. Pay the £50 application assessment fee, (there are some exemptions, check terms and conditions).
6. Submit your application.

For further details of our admission process, read our step by step guide to postgraduate taught applications.

Application deadlines

• International students who require an ATAS: Tuesday 29 July 2025, midday UK time
• International students who do not require an ATAS: Tuesday 26 August 2025, midday UK time
• UK students: Tuesday 9 September 2025, midday UK time

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 submit two 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.

Unfortunately, due to number 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