The Wild Animal Initiative, in partnership with Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) and the University of Edinburgh, is pleased to announce the Advance Wild Animal Welfare Scholarships for the academic year 2025.
The University of Edinburgh, founded in 1582, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world. Located in Scotland’s capital, it has a long history of excellence in teaching, research, and innovation. The university played a key role in the Scottish Enlightenment and has produced many notable alumni, including Charles Darwin, Alexander Graham Bell, and several Nobel Prize winners. Today, it continues to be a global leader in education and research across a wide range of disciplines.
Table of Briefs
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Advance Wild Animal Welfare Scholarship |
| Offered by | Wild Animal Initiative (WAI), SRUC, and University of Edinburgh |
| Eligible Programmes | MSc in Applied Animal Behaviour and Animal Welfare; MSc in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law |
| Number of Scholarships | 2 Scholarships |
| Target Audience | Students with experience or strong interest in wild animal welfare/ecology |
| Official Website | www.wildanimalinitiative.org |
Background
The Wild Animal Initiative (WAI), in partnership with Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) and the University of Edinburgh, has launched two scholarships designed to support future leaders in wild animal welfare. The initiative recognizes the urgent need to advance scientific understanding and evidence-based strategies to improve the lives of wild animals globally.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Advance Wild Animal Welfare Scholarship, applicants must:
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Have a strong interest or background in ecology, animal behaviour, or wild animal welfare.
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Be admitted to or applying for either of the two eligible MSc programmes at the University of Edinburgh/SRUC.
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Demonstrate a commitment to improving the lives of wild animals through academic or professional experience.
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Meet the academic and English language requirements for the chosen MSc programme.
Benefits
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Number of Awards: 2 (one for each MSc programme)
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Host Institutions: Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) and the University of Edinburgh
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Scholarship Coverage: While the exact financial coverage is not detailed, the award is designed to support educational expenses for the duration of the master’s programme.
Application Process
Here’s how to apply:
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Apply to the MSc Programme
Submit your application for either:-
MSc Applied Animal Behaviour and Animal Welfare
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MSc International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law
via the University of Edinburgh application portal.
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Prepare Supporting Documents
These may include:-
Academic transcripts
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Letters of recommendation
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A statement of purpose (with emphasis on your interest in wild animal welfare)
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Submit Scholarship Application
While specific scholarship application steps are not provided in detail, it’s advised to check the WAI website or the relevant MSc programme page for application instructions or contact details. -
Notification
Successful applicants will be notified directly after the evaluation process. Ensure your contact information is up to date when applying.
Important Dates
Application Deadlines: 2nd June 2025.
Conclusion
The Advance Wild Animal Welfare Scholarship is more than financial aid—it’s an investment in the future of compassionate, evidence-based solutions for wildlife. If you’re ready to commit your skills and studies to protecting and improving wild animal lives, this could be the opportunity that launches your career and contribution to a better world.