What makes this course unique?
If you’re curious about the zoo industry and the science behind it, we’ll equip you with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to tackle some of the most pressing challenges within the multifaceted zoo industry, encompassing animal husbandry, design, environmental management, veterinary sciences, human and animal psychology and conservation science.
This course opens doors to diverse career paths such as wildlife conservation biologist, zoo research officer or education manager, aquarist, population manager and zoo curator.


Qualification: Level 5
Level of Study: Undergraduate
Duration: 2 years full-time
UCAS Code: CD34
Institution Code: S34
What you’ll learn
You will gain a deep understanding of animal welfare and behaviour, the animal industry and wildlife management. Topics such as animal nutrition, health and behaviour are paired with practical skills such as laboratory techniques and
current industry IT software. Use our extensive facilities to carry out innovative research as part of your course on a wide range of projects.
Modules
YEAR ONE – SOLID FOUNDATIONS
- Academic Skills
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Principles of Biology
- Industrial Experience
- Exotic Animal Management
- Zoo History and Culture
YEAR TWO – GET JOB READY
- Animal Health
- Applied Industrial Research
- Population Biology
- Industrial Development
- Zoo Industry Ethics and Legislation
- Zoo Animal Nutrition
- Exotic Animal Behaviour, Welfare and
- Husbandry (optional)*
- Aquarium Design and Husbandry (optional)*
*Subject to demand
How you’ll be assessed
Our assessments mirror the challenges you may face in your career, combining academic depth with practical application:
- Field‑based assignments allow you to showcase your subject‑specific skills to employers
- A range of presentation types and written assignments that develop key graduate skills such as communication expertise, synthesis of sources and discussion of evidence.
How you’ll be taught
Contact time: Three days per week plus independent study time.
Entry requirements
A Level: Two A Level passes, including one at grade C or above one of which should be in a science
BTEC Ext. Diploma: MMP
City & Guilds Advanced Technical Ext. Diploma (1080): MMP in an appropriate pathway
BTEC National Diploma: MM
City & Guilds Advanced Technical Extended Diploma (720): MMM in an appropriate pathway
T Levels: Pass in a relevant subject
Access to HE: A satisfactory pass in a relevant Access course with 74 tariff points, with 24 credits at merit or above including 12 credits in science based units
International Baccalaureate: Appropriate IB Certificates considered
Plus GCSEs in Maths and English at grade 4/C or above or Level 2 Functional Skills in Maths and English.
Access to Higher Education
Thinking about studying a degree but want to build your academic skills first? Our one‑year Access to HE courses can help you get there offering a great platform for mature learners to gain the skills and qualifications needed to continue onto land-based or veterinary sciences degrees in the future.