Animal Science (Zoo and Wildlife Conservation)

Learn about the zoo industry and both UK and international wildlife management and combine scientific study with practical animal husbandry.

As a student at ARU in Writtle, you’ll explore a holistic approach to animal husbandry through modules on applied behaviour and welfare, breeding and animal health management.

We combine elements of practical animal management courses, with scientific study of topics such as conservation genetics and animal health.

You’ll be taught by subject-specialist staff, and benefit from campus facilities including dedicated canine and equine centres, a small animal unit and a working farm. You'll take part in animal handling practicals involving work with a range of domesticated and captive animal species, as well as laboratory classes.

Throughout your course, there’s the chance to join ‘behind the scenes’ trips and other experiences.

If you’re passionate about zoo animals and wildlife, and want to support their health and welfare, our Animal Science (Zoo and Wildlife Conservation) course is designed to give you the knowledge and skills to pursue a successful career.

There are a number of ways to study this course. As well as our 3-year full-time degree, you have the option of studying over:

• 1 year to gain a Certificate in Higher Education

• 1 year to top-up your existing qualification to a full BSc

• 8 years part-time, including a foundation year, to achieve a BSc

You can apply through UCAS (UK students) or directly to us (part-time and international students).

All BSc students study the same modules (with the addition of foundation year modules for those taking the 4-year course). Cert HE students study Year 1 BSc modules.

Year 1: Professional Skills for the Animal Industry, Animal Biology, Ethics of Animal Use, Introduction to Biochemistry, Animal Husbandry, Ecology and Evolution. Year 2: Research Methods, Commercial and Professional Skills for Animal Science, Behaviour, Animal Health Science, Management of Zoo Animal Collections, Nutritional Biochemistry, Reproduction and Development, Wildlife Conservation Skills. Year 3: Capstone Project, Applied Nutrition and Feeding, Genetics and Genomics, Applied Issues in Wildlife Conservation, Advanced Animal Health Science, Applied Behaviour and Animal Welfare, Developments in Zoo Management.

Students are assessed in a number of ways, including: - Practical assessments with companion and zoo animals, farm livestock and horses - Examinations – both multiple choice and essay questions - Presentations - Essays and technical reports - Assessed seminars - Case studies - Experimental work and laboratory reports - Poster presentations - Debates - Dissertation.