Applicants to the Master of Conservation Leadership will have a minimum average of at least 77% (B+) in the last completed degree and at least three years working experience in the field of conservation post honours bachelor’s degree. Preference will be given to applicants with some experience in leadership or management roles. Applicants must submit a statement of interest. A letter of recommendation from a current employer or a conservation professional emphasizing the applicant's leadership potential is also required. Students are admitted in the Summer. Alternate admission may be offered to applicants who do not meet the admission requirements but have completed more than 5 years of relevant work experience. The Program office should be consulted for further admission information and deadlines.

The Master of Conservation Leadership is comprised of 4.0 credits organized into four units: Foundations, Leadership and Communication, Innovation in Conservation, and Addressing a Conservation or Organizational Challenge. Each unit is comprised of a residency component and online modules, with the exception of Unit 4, which is dedicated to the final learning portfolio.