Animal Management (Zoo and Wildlife) (Top Up)

If you have a real passion for working with animals and specialising in zoo and wildlife, you will discover a wide choice of occupations in the thriving and varied zoo and wildlife management sector. By building on the skills and knowledge developed during your HND or foundation degree studies, you will be in an excellent position to either pursue a new career, consider self-employment or progress in your existing role.

This one-year top-up course consists of five modules designed to reflect the diverse nature of zoo and wildlife management. These will be delivered through engaging lectures and practical studies in our laboratories and on-site animal unit.

Your learning will be supported by our highly qualified teaching team who have a wealth of academic and professional experience in many specialist areas. Guest speakers will also ensure that you receive the most up-to-date professional experience and knowledge. This will be enhanced further through field trips (mandatory and voluntary) to enable you to apply theory to practice.

Delivered at our Broomfield Hall campus, the course includes 15 hours of taught material each week with a minimum of 15 hours of expected self-study.

This course is regulated by OfS and the qualification is awarded by the University of Derby. Upon completion, you will achieve a Bachelor of Science degree from the University.

All students benefit from access to the UDO online platform, the Derby College Learning Resources Centre, the University of Derby library, and the College’s Moodle pages.

The programme will run with a minimum of six students.

Modules are:

Animal Interactions, Law and Ethics (20 credits)

This module aims to develop students’ understanding of the psychology of the human-animal bond and how human actions can conflict with animal welfare and rights. Students will analyse the difficulties faced when considering ethical dilemmas involving animals. Finally, students will consider how and why laws involving animals have changed and evaluate the impacts that policies and legislations have on animal welfare.

Recent Developments in Animal Welfare Science (20 credits)

The module will explore how to read and critique scientific papers and apply statistical principles in animal welfare research; by the end of the module students will be able to critically look at the structure and content of scientific papers. Appraisal of recent scientific developments pertinent to a welfare issue will be assessed.

Wild Animal Veterinary Sciences (20 credits)

This module aims to explore the care and management of animals in captivity in terms of the care they receive from animal caregivers/keepers and veterinary teams. Looking at the spread of disease and the care of vulnerable animals in particular, this module will build on critical analysis skills by using real life case studies for students to discuss and debate.

Setting up a Successful Animal Business Enterprise (20 credits)

Nearly 50% of the workforce in the land-based sector is self-employed. The aim of this module is to provide students with the knowledge and practical skills required to set up and run a small business enterprise in the animal industry.

Independent Animal Research Project (40 credits)

Students will conduct an in-depth investigation into a specific aspect of their course of study. This research may be developed from elements of the course, linked to the student’s individual interests or to areas where they may wish to seek future employment. Completion of this unit will enhance students’ understanding of the techniques used in the formulation of research projects, typical research methodologies and formats of presentation.

While on the course, you will be assessed using a variety of methods including assignments, practical work, reports, group presentations and poster presentations. All formative and summative assessment methods have been designed to focus on skills specific to the industry while incorporating key transferable skills.