Course summary

This programme explores the interconnectedness between animals and their environment through theoretical and practical competences, related to both research and industry settings. It is a broad-based programme that investigates the diverse relationships between captive or wild animal situations in relation to a range of management and conservation strategies. Being able to develop ecosystems or environments that monitor biodiversity or enrich an animal’s wellbeing is key knowledge that is examined at a national and international level to give a global perspective. The programme is delivered by teaching staff with a wide range of industry and research experience at University Centre Somerset’s Cannington campus. There are a range of facilities available to further support academic studies, such as an extensive animal collection and access to local environments such as the UK’s largest wetland habitat, Steart Marshes (WWT). As part of your degree you will be required to undertake work experience in the first year in an industry-related business. In addition, a variety of optional visits to external organisations aid the development of existing skill sets. The modules studied may include: • Psychology of Animals • British Wildlife • Animal Health Diagnostics • Evolution and Behavioural Ecology • Field and Behavioural Monitoring Techniques • Enclosure and Enrichment Design • Ecological Principles and Habitat Management • Wildlife Conservation and Environmental Surveying. You will be equipped with a range of skills securely underpinned by fundamental principles and theories of animal management/conservation with a clear application to industry and research. Enabling you to progress to the workplace and/or higher study, with access to an excellent range of facilities to support your learning and progression to the workplace and/or higher level studies/research. You will have a support network that includes 1:1 and group tutorials for personal progress and an academic development programme for transferable skills at every level of study. Induction programmes and introductory coursework will provide upskilling and formative feedback on the academic standards reached. Career Progression This degree could help learners gain employment within an animal establishment, zoological collection, wildlife organisation or conservation body. In addition, upon successful completion of the BSc (Hons), progression to a Masters Degree or PhD could be an option. Graduates could progress to an MSc in Animal Behaviour or Primate/Wildlife/Zoo Conservation or Countryside Management.