Master of Science [MS] (Wildlife Studies)

The Master of Science (M.Sc) in Wildlife Studies is a specialized 2-year full-time postgraduate program offered by Aligarh Muslim University, one of India's premier central universities. This course provides advanced knowledge in wildlife conservation, biodiversity management, ecology, and environmental sustainability. The program spans 4 semesters with a total intake of 10 seats. The total course fee is ₹17,960 for the entire 2-year duration (₹8,980 per year), making it highly affordable for postgraduate studies. The course is conducted in full-time on-campus mode, requiring regular attendance and participation in fieldwork, laboratory work, and research projects. M.Sc Wildlife Studies at AMU is popular among students passionate about wildlife conservation and environmental management, offering excellent opportunities for careers in conservation organizations, government agencies, and research institutions.

Admission Status and Registration Deadlines

Admission for the 2026-27 academic session is currently ongoing. The application deadline without late fee is April 5, 2026, and with late fee is April 12, 2026. The entrance examination for M.Sc Wildlife Studies is scheduled for April 19, 2026. Counselling and seat allotment will follow after the entrance test results are declared. The batch is expected to commence in June 2026. Interested candidates must apply online through the official AMU website (amucontrollerexams.com) before the deadline.

KEY POINTS

• Comprehensive curriculum covering wildlife ecology, conservation biology, biodiversity management, and environmental policy
• Extensive fieldwork and educational visits to wildlife sanctuaries, national parks, and research centers
• Well-equipped laboratories with modern equipment for wildlife research and analysis
• Experienced faculty members with research publications and field experience in wildlife conservation
• Strong emphasis on practical skills in wildlife survey, monitoring, and data analysis
• Opportunity to conduct research projects on endangered species and conservation strategies
• Access to research facilities and collaboration with wildlife organizations and NGOs
• Hostel facilities available for both male and female students

AMU M.Sc Wildlife Studies Fees

Fees Structure

• All fees are refundable as per university norms.
• The annual fee is ₹8,980 rupees.
• Hostel fees (if opted) are approximately ₹2,000 rupees per year.
• Mess charges are approximately ₹1,400 rupees per month.
• Physically handicapped students are exempt from tuition fees but must pay hostel and dining charges.
• EMI options may be available for self-financed students.
• Payment can be made online during counselling.

AMU M.Sc Wildlife Studies Admission 2026

Important Dates for M.Sc Wildlife Studies 2026-27

The dates mentioned above are tentative and subject to change.

Eligibility Criteria

• Bachelor's degree (B.Sc) in Zoology, Botany, Environmental Science, or related life sciences with minimum 50% aggregate marks
• For SC/ST candidates, minimum 45% aggregate marks is required
• English is a compulsory subject at graduation level
• No specific age limit for postgraduate admission

Admission Process

• Register and fill the online application form on amucontrollerexams.com
• Pay the application fee (₹850 rupees)
• Appear for the AMU M.Sc Wildlife Studies entrance examination on April 19, 2026
• Download admit card from the official website (no postal delivery)
• Secure minimum 20% marks in the entrance test to be eligible for counselling
• Participate in counselling and indicate course preferences
• Report for physical admission with original documents including migration certificate and character certificate
• Complete fee payment during admission

AMU M.Sc Wildlife Studies Scholarships 2026

Available Scholarships

• Scholarship applications are processed by the Dean of Students' Welfare office.
• Students must submit required documents and maintain minimum academic performance.
• Physically handicapped students are exempt from tuition fees but must pay hostel and dining charges.
• Multiple scholarship schemes from state and central government are available for eligible students.
• Application deadlines vary by scholarship type and are notified separately by the university.

AMU M.Sc Wildlife Studies Placement 2026

Placement Metrics

According to an external review site Ranking 2025, AMU ranks 118 out of 277 colleges in India and 3rd in state Uttar Pradesh for its M.Sc Wildlife Studies program.

• 47 out of 120 under India Today Science Ranking 2020.
• 61 out of 100 under Outlook Science Ranking 2024.
• 501-600 out of 801 under Times Higher Education Science Ranking 2020.

Read more on AMU Rankings here

AMU M.Sc Wildlife Studies FAQs

Ques. What is the difference between M.Sc Wildlife Studies and M.Sc Zoology at AMU?

Ans. M.Sc Wildlife Studies is a specialized program focused specifically on wildlife conservation, biodiversity management, and ecological sustainability. M.Sc Zoology, on the other hand, is a broader program covering general animal biology, physiology, genetics, and other zoological sciences. Wildlife Studies emphasizes field research, conservation strategies, and environmental policy, while Zoology provides comprehensive knowledge of animal diversity and biological processes. Wildlife Studies graduates are better prepared for careers in conservation organizations and environmental management, while Zoology graduates have more diverse career options in research, teaching, and pharmaceutical industries. The curriculum of Wildlife Studies includes more fieldwork and conservation-focused projects compared to Zoology.

Ques. What kind of fieldwork is involved in the M.Sc Wildlife Studies program?

Ans. Fieldwork is an integral component of the M.Sc Wildlife Studies program at AMU. Students undertake extensive field surveys in wildlife sanctuaries, national parks, and natural habitats to study animal behavior, population dynamics, and ecological relationships. The fieldwork includes wildlife census, species identification, habitat assessment, and data collection using modern equipment and techniques. Students also participate in conservation projects and research initiatives conducted by the university and partner organizations. Educational visits to renowned wildlife research centers and national parks are organized regularly. The fieldwork develops practical skills in wildlife monitoring, data analysis, and conservation management. Students typically spend several weeks in the field during each semester, gaining hands-on experience in wildlife research and conservation practices.

Ques. Can I pursue M.Sc Wildlife Studies if my bachelor's degree is in Botany instead of Zoology?

Ans. Yes, you can pursue M.Sc Wildlife Studies at AMU with a bachelor's degree in Botany, Environmental Science, or other related life sciences. The eligibility criteria specify that candidates should have a B.Sc degree in Zoology, Botany, Environmental Science, or related life sciences with minimum 50% aggregate marks. Botany is considered a related life science as it provides understanding of plant ecology, biodiversity, and environmental systems which are essential for wildlife conservation. However, you may need to study some additional zoology concepts during the program to complement your botanical knowledge. The entrance examination tests general knowledge of ecology, conservation, and environmental science, which is applicable to candidates from various life science backgrounds. Many successful students have pursued this program with Botany as their undergraduate major.

Ques. What are the career prospects after M.Sc Wildlife Studies from AMU?

Ans. M.Sc Wildlife Studies graduates from AMU have excellent career prospects in the conservation and environmental sectors. Primary career paths include wildlife conservation officer in national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, environmental consultant for government and private organizations, research scientist in wildlife research institutions, and forest officer through UPSC examination. Many graduates work with NGOs focused on wildlife conservation and environmental protection. Government agencies like the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change actively recruit M.Sc Wildlife Studies graduates. Some graduates pursue Ph.D in Wildlife Sciences or Environmental Management for research careers. The average starting salary for entry-level positions is around ₹25,000-₹40,000 rupees per month, with opportunities for higher packages in specialized roles. The program provides strong foundation for both government and private sector careers in wildlife and environmental management.

Ques. What research opportunities are available for M.Sc Wildlife Studies students?

Ans. M.Sc Wildlife Studies students at AMU have excellent research opportunities through the university's research facilities and collaborations with wildlife organizations. Students can conduct research projects on endangered species, habitat conservation, wildlife population dynamics, and human-wildlife conflict mitigation. The university has partnerships with national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and conservation NGOs that provide research sites and mentorship. Students can access the university's research laboratories equipped with modern equipment for wildlife research and data analysis. Faculty members guide students in designing and executing research projects that contribute to conservation knowledge. The final year project is a significant research component where students work on original research topics under faculty supervision. Many research findings from M.Sc students have been published in peer-reviewed journals, contributing to wildlife conservation literature.

Ques. Is hostel accommodation available for M.Sc Wildlife Studies students?

Ans. Hostel accommodation is not guaranteed but is allocated based on availability and university policies. Students are normally allocated a Hall of Residence at the time of admission, but actual hostel accommodation is provided subject to availability of seats in the hostel. The university maintains 20 halls of residence with various facilities including reading rooms, common rooms, and indoor/outdoor games. Hostel fees are approximately ₹2,000 rupees per year, and mess charges are around ₹1,400 rupees per month. Students who do not get hostel accommodation can arrange private accommodation in the city. The university has a strict anti-ragging policy and maintains a safe and disciplined hostel environment. Female students have separate hostels with additional security measures and support services. Hostel life provides good opportunities for networking with students from other programs and building professional relationships.