BSc (Hons) Zoological Management & Conservation - (Level 6 | Top-up)

The module aims to allow students to develop and demonstrate practical communication skills, and understand how these skills should be applied in zoos and aquariums. Many communication channels are available, and there are varied reasons for using them: promotion, information dissemination, or behaviour change to encourage wildlife-friendly outcomes. Students will learn to critically analyse a variety of on-site communications (interpretation panels, talks, demonstrations etc.), marketing methods (the use of websites, social media, print media, etc.), and will briefly explore the more complex field of using communication as a campaigning tool. The module will address the theoretical underpinning of various communication techniques, the practical skills in planning, creating and delivering appropriate materials to a range of audiences and the methods for evaluating the success of such ventures.

100% Coursework: individual, presentation

This module aims to develop your knowledge of the various ways in which organisations holding animal populations are involved in field conservation projects. It will examine current conservation issues and the efforts and impacts that such organisations can demonstrate in the conservation arena, including but not limited to: understanding conservation prioritisation, assessing reintroduction sites, integrating in situ and ex situ conservation measures, working with stakeholders and developing species management and conservation action plans. The key focus of the module is to develop a core knowledge base surrounding the in-situ conservation activities of organisations that hold animal populations. 

Coursework: individual, presentation 50%

Coursework: Exam 50%

Mammals as a group are very well represented in ex situ collections. Despite the challenges posed by unique features of this taxon’s biology, behaviour and ecology, mammals are also by far the most translocated group of animals. In this module you will examine the process of conservation translocations, via reintroduction and restocking, for a variety of mammal species. You will focus on the biological characteristics of mammals, considering aspects of their behaviour and the, often complex, social structures that can heavily influence the translocation process. Site visits and interaction with industry specialists will enable you to learn the process of training and preparing animals for release, including soft and hard release methods and techniques for post-release monitoring. Capture, mark and handling techniques will be critically assessed. You will also review the role rescue and rehabilitation centres play in supporting wild populations, in order to successfully rehabilitate and return mammals to the wild. Real-world case studies will be utilised throughout to allow opportunities for you to problem-solve and critically review active projects.

Coursework: 100%

This module aims to provide students with an advanced understanding of the techniques and processes performed by ex situ bird collection staff that play a role in either in situ conservation programmes or rescue and rehabilitation activities. Focus will be given to the rearing and release methods for a range of bird species, and interaction with subject specialists will provide opportunities to assess and learn from both past and currently active projects. You will develop knowledge and understanding of the release methods utilised to support reintroductions and learn how to effectively monitor post release, in order to assess the transition from captivity to the wild. Visits to release sites, a rescue and rehabilitation centre, and captive bird collections, will demonstrate a range of management techniques, including housing, rearing, handling and releasing both captive bred and wild-caught birds.

Coursework: 100%

This module aims to provide you with advanced knowledge of ex situ management practices to support in situ conservation for ectothermic animals. You will critically assess methods of rearing and preparing young for release and will critically evaluate taxon-specific supportive measures, including threat mitigation techniques and post-release monitoring. The role of zoos and other ex situ breeding facilities, along with the role of in situ conservation projects in supporting wild populations, will also be studied. You will learn the techniques for handling and restraining captive ectothermic animals, and critically evaluate their effectiveness in practice. A wide range of terrestrial, marine and freshwater species will be covered and you will be assessed through the production of a proposal for an ex situ conservation breeding plan. A range of lecture topics and guest speakers, plus the embedded field trip will prepare you for this assessment. 

Coursework: 100%

The research project gives an opportunity to conduct an original project on a relevant zoological/ conservation topic, in considerable depth. The focus will be negotiated in your area of interest but could take the form of a traditional dissertation, literature review or a reflective report (e.g., to accompany campaign materials or interpretation signs). It will enable you to demonstrate critical thinking, as well as proficiency in important skills such as initiative, effective communication, problem solving and time management. Improvement of these skills will be supported by sessions on key elements of project development. This module is undertaken on a relatively self-directed basis with supervisory meetings with an appropriate specialist. It is a progression from Level 5 studies and is complemented by taught modules at Level 6. The ability to complete this type of self-directed, critical, and rigorous investigation satisfactorily is generally considered to be a hallmark of graduate competence.

Coursework: Individual, presentation 25%

Coursework: Individual, dissertation/major project (6000 words or equivalent) 75%