Bioscience and Health Policy
The Master of Science in Bioscience and Health Policy with a focus on Biodiversity & Conservation is a 22 month full time program designed to prepare students for careers at the intersection of biological sciences, conservation, and health policy. The curriculum emphasizes the integration of ecological principles, policy analysis, biodiversity management, and evidence based decision making, equipping learners to assess and implement strategies that address environmental and public health challenges. Students engage in both theoretical and applied learning through coursework, research projects, and case studies, gaining skills to analyze complex ecosystems, evaluate conservation programs, and influence policy decisions that promote sustainability and health outcomes.
Throughout the program, students work closely with faculty and peers to develop expertise in conservation planning, environmental risk assessment, health policy evaluation, and interdisciplinary research methods. The 22 month structure provides time to combine rigorous academic study with applied fieldwork, laboratory experiments, and policy analysis projects. Graduates gain the knowledge and practical experience necessary to design, implement, and evaluate initiatives that protect biodiversity, enhance public health, and support sustainable environmental policies. By integrating science, policy, and management, the program equips students for leadership roles in conservation, research, and policy development.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Bioscience and Health Policy
- Degree Type: Master of Science
- Duration: 22 months
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 15 February 2026
- Location: Rice University, United States
- Field of Study: Biodiversity & Conservation
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1: Foundations in Bioscience and Policy
• Principles of Biodiversity and Conservation
• Health Policy and Environmental Impacts
• Quantitative Research Methods
• Data Analysis for Policy and Conservation
Semester 2: Applied Conservation and Policy Methods
• Ecosystem Services and Resource Management
• Policy Evaluation and Regulatory Frameworks
• Risk Assessment in Health and Biodiversity
• Applied Research Project
Semester 3: Advanced Topics in Biodiversity and Health
• Conservation Strategies and Program Design
• Environmental Health and Policy Integration
• Climate Change and Ecological Risk
• Elective in Biodiversity or Policy Studies
Semester 4: Research Integration and Capstone
• Independent Research / Thesis
• Applied Conservation and Policy Project
• Advanced Data Modeling and Analysis
• Elective in Environmental or Health Policy
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers that require a combination of scientific knowledge, policy expertise, and analytical skills. Potential positions include Conservation Scientist, Environmental Policy Analyst, Health and Biodiversity Consultant, Research Associate, and Program Evaluator within governmental agencies, NGOs, international organizations, research institutions, and consulting firms. The program equips students to design and implement evidence based conservation and health initiatives, analyze complex ecological and policy data, and provide actionable recommendations to improve biodiversity management and public health outcomes. Graduates are also well positioned to pursue doctoral studies or leadership roles in interdisciplinary research and policy development.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students seeking an interdisciplinary, research focused education that integrates biodiversity conservation, health policy, applied research methods, and evidence based decision making. Its 22 month on campus format allows students to engage deeply with faculty, participate in fieldwork, and collaborate on applied projects. The curriculum emphasizes practical application of scientific knowledge to policy and conservation challenges, preparing graduates to address environmental and public health issues, develop innovative solutions, and contribute to sustainability initiatives at local, national, and global levels.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: 713-348-7423
Email: admission@rice.edu
Address: Office of Admission – MS 17, 109 Lovett Hall, 6100 Main Street, Houston, TX 77005, United States
