
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
- Foundational knowledge in anatomy, physiology, behaviour, and ecology.
- Practical skills in animal handling, data collection, and research methods.
- Understanding challenges in animal populations and ecosystems.
- Effective communication of zoological concepts.
- Skills in conservation planning, wildlife management, and public engagement.
- Career preparation in animal care, conservation, education, or research.
Prerequisites
- A-levels (or equivalent) in relevant subjects like biology and science.
- Strong interest in animal welfare and conservation.
- Meeting the specific entry requirements of the chosen university.
Curriculum Outline
- Animal Biology
- Diversity
- Animal Behaviour
- Ecology
- Conservation Biology
- Wildlife Management
- Zoological Research Methods
- Science Communication
- Animal Welfare and Ethics
- Education and Public Engagement
Teaching Method
- Lectures
- Tutorials
- Group Work
- Workshops
- Independent study
Modules
- Vertebrate Biology
- Invertebrate Biology
- Ecology, Biodiversity and the Natural Environment
- Animal Health and Nutrition
- Key Skills in Zoology
- Welfare, Ethics, Law and Policy
- Field Skills and Field Course
- Ecosystems and Conservation Biology - including Field Course
- Biochemistry, Biotechnology and Genetics
- Animal Behaviour and Behavioural Ecology
- Global Environmental Challenges
- Professional Skills for Zoologists
- Anthrozoology
- Sustainability in Practice
- Honours Research Dissertation
- Recent Advances in Zoological Sciences
- Zoology Field Course (including International Option)
- Applied Conservation for Managed Populations
- Applied Management for Biodiversity
Assessment Methods
- Written examinations
- Coursework
- Practical assessment
- Presentation
- 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:
- Bioscience laboratories
- Animal welfare centres
- Zoological gardens
- Ecological reserves
- Aquariums
- Wildlife rehabilitation centres
- Fieldwork stations
- Veterinary clinics
- Research ponds
- Animal husbandry units
- Conservation research centres
- Seminar libraries
- Genetics research labs
- Behavioral ecology labs
- Wildlife health monitoring facilities
- Rescue shelters
- Experimental animal enclosures
- Pathology labs
- Biodiversity monitoring stations
- 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:
- Zoologist
- Wildlife Conservation Officer
- Conservation researcher
- Science Communicator
- Science writer
- Wildlife rehabilitator
- Zoo learning officer
- Environmental Educator
- Animal Welfare Officer
- Research Assistant (Conservation/Behaviour)
- Documentary Filmmaker (Wildlife)
- Community Engagement Officer (Conservation)
- Animal Technician
- And more
Fees and Fundings
- Tuition fees range in between £13,000 - £16,500 per year and may vary depending on the institution.
- Scholarships, grants, and financial opportunities are available.
- Government loan aid is available.
Entry Requirements
- 5 GCSEs English, Mathematics, Numeracy and English at Grade 4/C
- Biology is preferred but not mandatory
- IELTS of 6.0 overall (with no band below 5.5) is required
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Field Work and Internships
Fieldwork:
This is a core component, often involving:
- Ecological surveys: Learning to assess and monitor animal populations in their natural habitats.
- Habitat assessments: Studying the environments animals live in.
- 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:
- Working with conservation organisations: Assisting with projects aimed at protecting endangered species or habitats.
- Collaborating with zoos and wildlife parks: Gaining experience in animal care, management, and education.
- Contributing to research projects: Assisting scientists with data collection and analysis.
Certifications
- Animal Handling Certification (Species-Specific)
- Wildlife First Aid Certification
- GIS (Geographic Information Systems) Certification
- Ecological Surveying Techniques Certification
- Protected Species Handling Licenses (e.g., Bat Licenses)
- Zookeeper Training Certification
- SCUBA Diving Certification (for Marine Zoology)
- Field Skills Certification (e.g., Navigation, Survival)
- Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Training
- Data Analysis and Statistical Software Certification
- Project Management Certification (e.g., PRINCE2)
- Environmental Education Certification
- Laboratory Animal Technician Certification
- Animal Welfare Officer Certification
- Remote Sensing Certification
- Chemical Restraint of Animals Certification
- Habitat Management Certification
- Wildlife Rehabilitation Certification
- Scientific Diving Certification
- Animal Behaviour Analysis Certification
Intakes
Typically, in the UK, the intakes takes twice a year (fall and spring), but may vary like:
- Fall (September/October)
- Spring (January/February)
- 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.