Course Overview
This course is delivered at University Centre Somerset, for more information please visit www.somerset.ac.uk
This programme explores the interconnectedness between animals and their environment through theoretical and practical competencies, 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 habitat management and conservation strategies. Being able to develop ecosystems to increase biodiversity and design environments to enrich an animal’s wellbeing are key skills at a national and international level. Ecological techniques relevant to monitoring species and their habitats are also undertaken.
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 Steart Marshes, the first WWT working wetland.
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.
Topics may include:
- Management of Captive Animals
- Animal Health Diagnostics
- Enclosure and Enrichment Design
- Evolution and Adaptation
- Field and Behavioural Monitoring Techniques
- Introduction to Ecological Principles and Habitats
- Ecological Monitoring and Habitat Management
- Animal Behavioural Management.
Assessment Methods
The modules are assessed through a combination of coursework and Time Constrained Essays. Coursework could include written/practical reports, case studies, essays, oral presentations, posters or a project (Level 5) and dissertation (Level 6) both of which allow independent research in a topic of interest, developed with staff on the programme.
Progression Options
Successful completion of this degree could help learners gain employment within an animal establishment, zoological collection, wildlife organisation, conservation body or ecological consultancy. 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 Wildlife/Zoo Conservation or Ecology.
Entry Requirements
Typically, entrants will possess:
- A minimum of 80 UCAS points from a full Level 3 qualification
- Five GCSEs including English language, maths and science at grade 4 and above, or recognised equivalent
- Applicants with English as their second language must have a minimum IELTS level 6 or equivalent.
Additional Equipment Required
- PPE is required for practicals on the animal unit: steel toe-capped boots or wellingtons plus blue overalls are needed. They can be obtained from agricultural stores
- Waterproof clothing, sensible walking boots and high visibility jackets may be required for working in external environments
- Optional trips and visits offered will incur additional cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can apply directly on any of the UCS College Group websites, whether you wish to study at Bridgwater College, Cannington College, Strode College, or Taunton College. Simply use our “Find a Course” feature and follow the on-screen instructions – be sure to have your important information to hand.
We aim to offer a careers service that is accessible to everyone. We will seek to equip all our students with the skills and knowledge that will enable them to operate confidently, effectively, and independently in life and work. All students have the opportunity to meet with a Careers Advisor for 1:1 career support.
The Student Experience Team can mentor and signpost students who are struggling with a range of issues that are negatively impacting their day-to-day life. The Student Experience Team works closely with the Safeguarding & Lifestyle Teams to promote proactive wellbeing enrichment sessions. The team can refer on to counselling when appropriate.
We provide top-quality workshops and teaching areas across our Colleges for subjects such as art, design and media, hair and beauty, catering, automotive engineering and construction. You can review our campus facilities by navigating to the “College Life” section of our websites.
For us, the success of our students always comes first. By investing in our built environment, we are investing in your future.
All of our students will have a personal tutor to support them with their academic progress and personal development. The tutorial programme consists of 1:1 support, group tutorials and guest speakers, plus targeted online resources which complement the UCS College Group Advantage scheme.
The Safeguarding Team can offer advice and guidance on anything that may be affecting your young person and their studies – no problem is too big or too small!
Please email our Safeguarding team at staysafe@ucscollegegroup.ac.uk. If you query is urgent, please come to the College Reception and ask to speak to a Safeguarding Officer.
If you cannot find an answer to your question in this FAQ section, you can ask us a question by visiting our Contact Us page.
