Certificate of Higher Education Zoological Management and Conservation

This is a skills-based module which aims to support and enhance the development of subject-based, generic and practical key skills. It integrates many areas of study, such as the development of professional standards of academic writing and communication, biology, research and analytical skills. Students will acquire real-world knowledge and skills that reinforce the understanding of academic subjects. These will include subjects such as, practical animal husbandry, academic reading and referencing and practical ecology and conservation. Work experience will provide an opportunity for the practical application of theory learned in taught sessions across the programme. A reflective review will be produced, to document skills development and reflect on professional skills needed in industry, observed during work experience which will consist of a minimum of 60 hours within the animal management and conservation sector. An introduction to research and key analytical skills will develop knowledge of scientific study within the natural sciences and conservation sector. You will carry out data collection and analysis of the results.

50% Assignment 1,250 words or equivalent

50% Portfolio 1,250 words or equivalent

This module will cover the biological principles that underpin the study of animal management and the fundamental processes of living organisms. Practical sessions will enable students to gain knowledge of animal physiology and an understanding of the reproductive and skeletal adaptations throughout the animal kingdom. The module will allow learners to develop knowledge of the key biological requirements that should be considered when managing captive animal populations.

60% Portfolio 3,000 words or equivalent

40% Unseen, closed book exam 2 hours (2,000 words equivalent)

This module examines the key issues relating to the welfare, health and husbandry of captive animals; how animal health and welfare can be both psychological and physical. Through the use of lectures, discussion forums, critiques of welfare documentaries, welfare auditing workshops, guest speakers and visits to UK zoos students will learn about the husbandry practices commonly used in modern zoo animal management.

50% Presentation 10 mins + 5 mins Q&A (2,500 words equivalent)

50% Assignment 2,500 words or equivalent

This module will provide a framework for understanding and interpreting animal behaviour patterns across a range of species. Students will develop a detailed understanding of how behaviour develops throughout an animal’s lifetime and the impact of that behaviour on their survival and reproductive success. Through practical activities concepts of animal behaviour study will be taught and practiced enabling students to successfully record and interpret behaviour.

100% Assignment 2,500 words or equivalent

This module will look at systematics and the theory of evolution as applied to the study of diversity within the animal kingdom. It will provide the underpinning knowledge and skills required to accurately and scientifically identify, name and classify a range of animal species. Practical skills in specimen collection and recording will also be learnt, as this practice plays a vital role for zoos that breed and manage animals for conservation programmes.

100 % Portfolio 2,500 words or equivalent

Through the millions of visitors who visit them, zoos and aquariums can help people engage with the natural world and make use of that contact to achieve conservation goals. Conservation relies on the collaborations between zoos and aquariums and many partners both in and outside the conservation world. Through a series of lectures, workshops and site visits, students will examine the many different facets of a zoo and aquariums in the 21st century and the roles of those working in the industry.

100% Assignment 2,500 words or equivalent