Animal & Conservation Biology

Animal & Conservation Biology

Overview

The Animal & Conservation Biology BSc (Hons) course teaches a comprehensive understanding of animal behaviour, ecology, and conservation. Throughout the course, students will learn how to apply the knowledge to secure wildlife and understand the effects of pollution and climate change on animals.

They will also learn how animals have evolved and adapted to diverse environments in terms of physiology, ecology, and behaviour.

Besides, they will learn about the biggest threats to animals, how to assess their habitats, and ways to protect them. Most importantly, students will gain practical experience through fieldwork, laboratory work, and research projects, preparing them for careers in wildlife conservation, zoology, and environmental management.

Objectives

  1. Deep understanding of animal behaviour and ecology.
  2. Gain practical skills in conservation and wildlife management.
  3. Apply knowledge to address real-world conservation challenges.

Prerequisites

  1. Strong academic background in Human Biology, Biology, Chemistry or Physics.
  2. Conservation: Environmental Science and Geography may be considered.
  3. Adult Literacy and Numeracy are also accepted.
  4. Commitment to Animal Conservation Science.
  5. Solid communication and interpersonal skills.
  6. Desire for positive impact.

Curriculum Outline

  1. Comparative Anatomy, Physiology and Behaviour
  2. Biomolecules, Cells and Microorganisms
  3. Biodiversity, Evolution and Genetics
  4. Ecology
  5. Statistics and Field Biology
  6. Applied Molecular Biology
  7. Brain and Behaviour
  8. Sex and Survival
  9. Landscape Ecology
  10. Animal Health and Welfare
  11. Conservation Biology
  12. Professional Skills for biologists
  13. Project in Animal Behaviour
  14. The Social Life of Animals
  15. Conservation Science in Practice
  16. Animal Behaviour and Conservation
  17. Control and Coordination of Behaviour
  18. Tropical Field Course
  19. Biodiversity in the Anthropocene
  20. Conservation and Genetics of Populations
  21. Coastal Ecology and Ecosystem Services

Teaching Method

  1. Lectures
  2. Seminars
  3. Tutorials
  4. Field studies
  5. Laboratory classes
  6. Independent study

Modules

  1. Foundation in Science
  2. Life on Earth
  3. Comparative anatomy and physiology
  4. Scientific enquiry
  5. Introductory Microbiology
  6. Cell biology
  7. Genes and Inheritance
  8. Ecology and Sustainability
  9. Practical Skills in Biodiversity and Ecology
  10. Physiology, Adaptation and Disease
  11. Animal Behaviour
  12. Option module
  13. Research Methods
  14. Habitat Assessment and GIS
  15. Ecology Field Studies
  16. Conservation Biology
  17. Terrestrial Field Ecology
  18. Option module
  19. Professional Practice
  20. Advances in Animal Behaviour
  21. Current Topics in Ecology
  22. Project

Assessment Methods

  1. Examination
  2. Assignments
  3. Practical assessments
  4. Peer and self-assessment
  5. Computer-based assessments
  6. Oral, audio-visual and poster presentation

Course Duration

This programme may vary depending on the institutions and countries, but the general standard options in the UK are:

  1. 04 years (full-time).

Facilities

  1. Well-equipped lecture halls
  2. Dedicated laboratory spaces
  3. Specialised labs for Histology, Molecular biology, Animal behaviour research, and Environmental analysis
  4. Research centres and institutes
  5. Well-stocked with scientific journals, textbooks, and reference materials
  6. Access to digital databases, e-books, and research papers.
  7. Learning management systems
  8. Computer labs and workstations
  9. Microscopes
  10. Laboratory equipment
  11. Field equipment
  12. Animal handling facilities
  13. Animal care facilities
  14. Greenhouses and outdoor spaces
  15. Student union and social spaces

Career Pathways

  1. Wildlife biologist
  2. Wildlife conservation
  3. Wildlife rehabilitator
  4. Zoo or aquarium curator
  5. Environmental law
  6. Environmental consultant
  7. Ecological consultant
  8. Research scientist
  9. Veterinary medicine
  10. Animal welfare officer
  11. Animal shelter worker
  12. Animal behaviourist
  13. Interpretive ranger
  14. Science communicator
  15. Environmental educator
  16. Laboratory technician
  17. Data analyst
  18. Biotechnology researcher
  19. International conservationist
  20. Wildlife forensics
  21. Conservation genetics
  22. Ecological restoration
  23. Sustainable development consultant
  24. University lecturer or professor
  25. Government agency worker
  26. Non-profit organisation worker
  27. Climate change adaptation and mitigation

Fees and Fundings

  1. Tuition fees are £20,310 per year and may vary depending on the institution.
  2. Scholarships, grants, and financial opportunities are available.
  3. Government loan aid is available.

Entry Requirements

  1. A-levels: BBD – BBB to include C in Biology
  2. Functional Skills Level 2 in English and Maths
  3. GCSE English, Maths and Science at C/4 or above
  4. IELTS 6.5 overall with 5.5 in all skills
  5. Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  6. A strong academic record

Field Work and Internships

  1. Participate in conservation projects, such as reforestation, habitat restoration, and species reintroduction.
  2. Internships with organisations like the World Wildlife Fund, the Nature Conservancy, or local wildlife trusts.
  3. Volunteer at local wildlife organisations or nature centres to gain experience.

Certifications

  1. Certified Wildlife Biologist (CWB)
  2. Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner (CERP)
  3. Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
  4. Data Analysis Certifications
  5. First Aid and CPR
  6. Wildlife Rehabilitation
  7. Boat Operator Certification
  8. Wildlife Handling Certification
  9. Ecotourism Management Certification

Intakes

Typically, it takes twice a year (fall and spring), but may vary like:

  1. Fall (September/October)
  2. Spring (January/February)
  3. Summer (May/June)

Student Testimony

"Couldn't get discretionary funding because the process is not ADHD friendly." Says - "Liv,  Animal & Conservation Biology BSc (Hons)."

Frequently asked questions

Animal & Conservation Biology is a multidisciplinary field that explores the biology, ecology, and conservation of animals and their habitats. It combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills to address challenges like habitat loss, climate change, and wildlife trafficking.