Applied Zoology

Applied Zoology

Overview

If you have a passion for exploring the incredible diversity of animal life and want to understand how humans influence wildlife, the Applied Zoology BA (Hons) degree is an excellent choice.

This programme offers an opportunity to dive deep into the structure, classification, behavior, health, nutrition, and conservation of various animal species. You will also acquire practical skills in animal husbandry and fieldwork, preparing you for real-world applications in labs, wildlife settings, and beyond.

Additionally, the course covers all aspects of animal biology, from understanding their physiology to studying their welfare, behavior, and ecology. A significant focus is placed on wild animal health, including the study of diseases affecting animals on a global scale and their impact on rescue and rehabilitation centres.

The programme is designed to equip you with versatile knowledge that can be applied in scientific, practical, and conservation-focused environments, empowering you to make a meaningful contribution to animal care and research.

Objectives

  1. Foundational knowledge in anatomy, physiology, behaviour, and ecology.
  2. Practical skills in animal handling, data collection, and research methods.
  3. Understanding challenges in animal populations and ecosystems.
  4. Effective communication of zoological concepts.
  5. Skills in conservation planning, wildlife management, and public engagement.
  6. Career preparation in animal care, conservation, education, or research.

Prerequisites

  1. A-levels (or equivalent) in relevant subjects like biology and science.
  2. Strong interest in animal welfare and conservation.
  3. Meeting the specific entry requirements of the chosen university.

Curriculum Outline

  1. Animal Biology
  2. Diversity
  3. Animal Behaviour
  4. Ecology
  5. Conservation Biology
  6. Wildlife Management
  7. Zoological Research Methods
  8. Science Communication
  9. Animal Welfare and Ethics
  10. Education and Public Engagement

Teaching Method

  1. Lectures
  2. Tutorials
  3. Group Work
  4. Workshops
  5. Independent study

Modules

  1. Vertebrate Biology
  2. Invertebrate Biology
  3. Ecology, Biodiversity and the Natural Environment
  4. Animal Health and Nutrition
  5. Key Skills in Zoology
  6. Welfare, Ethics, Law and Policy
  7. Field Skills and Field Course
  8. Ecosystems and Conservation Biology - including Field Course
  9. Biochemistry, Biotechnology and Genetics
  10. Animal Behaviour and Behavioural Ecology
  11. Global Environmental Challenges
  12. Professional Skills for Zoologists
  13. Anthrozoology
  14. Sustainability in Practice
  15. Honours Research Dissertation
  16. Recent Advances in Zoological Sciences
  17. Zoology Field Course (including International Option)
  18. Applied Conservation for Managed Populations
  19. Applied Management for Biodiversity

Assessment Methods

  1. Written examinations
  2. Coursework
  3. Practical assessment
  4. Presentation
  5. Research projects

Course Duration

The course duration of this programme may vary depending on the country and universities but in the UK, it takes about 04 years to complete.

Facilities

Typically, all the university's facilities in the UK are designed to provide students with a comprehensive learning experience and practical training opportunities. These facilities may include:

  1. Bioscience laboratories
  2. Animal welfare centres
  3. Zoological gardens
  4. Ecological reserves
  5. Aquariums
  6. Wildlife rehabilitation centres
  7. Fieldwork stations
  8. Veterinary clinics
  9. Research ponds
  10. Animal husbandry units
  11. Conservation research centres
  12. Seminar libraries
  13. Genetics research labs
  14. Behavioral ecology labs
  15. Wildlife health monitoring facilities
  16. Rescue shelters
  17. Experimental animal enclosures
  18. Pathology labs
  19. Biodiversity monitoring stations
  20. Environmental impact assessment units

Career Pathways

Mainly, the programme “ Applied Zoology - BA (Hons)” opens doors to a wide range of rewarding careers globally. But this programme from a UK university opens doors to advanced careers focused on improving the lives of individuals and communities, such as:

  1. Zoologist
  2. Wildlife Conservation Officer
  3. Conservation researcher
  4. Science Communicator
  5. Science writer
  6. Wildlife rehabilitator
  7. Zoo learning officer
  8. Environmental Educator
  9. Animal Welfare Officer
  10. Research Assistant (Conservation/Behaviour)
  11. Documentary Filmmaker (Wildlife)
  12. Community Engagement Officer (Conservation)
  13. Animal Technician
  14. And more

Fees and Fundings

  1. Tuition fees range in between £13,000 - £16,500 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. 5 GCSEs English, Mathematics, Numeracy and English at Grade 4/C
  2. Biology is preferred but not mandatory
  3. IELTS of 6.0 overall (with no band below 5.5) is required
  4. Strong communication and interpersonal skills

Field Work and Internships

Fieldwork:

This is a core component, often involving:

  1. Ecological surveys: Learning to assess and monitor animal populations in their natural habitats.
  2. Habitat assessments: Studying the environments animals live in.
  3. Species identification: Developing skills in recognizing and classifying various animal species.

Internships/Placements:

These provide valuable work experience and can significantly enhance employability. Opportunities may include:

  1. Working with conservation organisations: Assisting with projects aimed at protecting endangered species or habitats.  
  2. Collaborating with zoos and wildlife parks: Gaining experience in animal care, management, and education.
  3. Contributing to research projects: Assisting scientists with data collection and analysis.

Certifications

  1. Animal Handling Certification (Species-Specific)
  2. Wildlife First Aid Certification
  3. GIS (Geographic Information Systems) Certification
  4. Ecological Surveying Techniques Certification
  5. Protected Species Handling Licenses (e.g., Bat Licenses)
  6. Zookeeper Training Certification
  7. SCUBA Diving Certification (for Marine Zoology)
  8. Field Skills Certification (e.g., Navigation, Survival)
  9. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Training
  10. Data Analysis and Statistical Software Certification
  11. Project Management Certification (e.g., PRINCE2)
  12. Environmental Education Certification
  13. Laboratory Animal Technician Certification
  14. Animal Welfare Officer Certification
  15. Remote Sensing Certification
  16. Chemical Restraint of Animals Certification
  17. Habitat Management Certification
  18. Wildlife Rehabilitation Certification
  19. Scientific Diving Certification
  20. Animal Behaviour Analysis Certification

Intakes

Typically, in the UK, the intakes 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

"Today, she is the Animal Care Manager, overseeing a diverse range of species from farm animals to exotic creatures like Meerkats and Macaws. Her days are filled with activity, from hands-on animal encounters during open days to managing administrative tasks such as staff rotas, food deliveries, and business planning. Georgia's journey highlights the transformative power of education and passion, inspiring others to pursue their dreams in the world of animal care." Says - Georgia Sharpe, Applied Zoology - BSc (Hons)."

Frequently asked questions

This programme combines the scientific study of animals with practical applications in fields like conservation, wildlife management, animal welfare, and education. It emphasises hands-on experience and real-world skills.

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