Certificate of Higher Education Zoological Management and Conservation

Course Overview

SGS College partners with Bristol Zoological Society, with the Bristol Zoo Project serving as our campus. Studying within the grounds of an active conservation zoo brings the course to life, giving you a unique learning environment and direct access to real conservation work.

You will study in collaboration with Bristol Zoological Society’s Higher Education and Conservation Science Department, with BZS staff forming a key part of the teaching team. Many of these professionals are actively working in the field and managing conservation projects across more than 15 countries worldwide, giving you valuable insight into real-world conservation challenges.

Our SGS teaching team also bring extensive industry experience from areas including zoos, wildlife ecology and conservation, science communication, and education. This expertise is embedded throughout the course, ensuring your learning reflects current professional practice in the zoological and conservation sectors.

Learning and Teaching

You will learn through a variety of engaging teaching methods, including:

·        Lectures and interactive workshops

·        Practical sessions and field-site visits

·        Study trips, including UK residential and international opportunities

·        Guest lectures from industry experts

·        Talks from zoo professionals such as keepers and veterinarians

·        Live online sessions with conservation specialists from around the world

This diverse learning approach helps you build both theoretical knowledge and practical skills relevant to careers in conservation and zoo management.

Assessment

Assessment methods are designed to reflect the wide range of skills required in the industry. These include:

·        Written coursework

·        Presentations

·        Portfolio development

·        Practical workbook completion

·        Management plan development

·        Independent research projects

The course includes one exam, at Level4 only.

Work Experience and Practical Skills

Work experience placements form a key part of Level4 (CertHE) Zoological Management and Conservation. These placements allow you to develop essential hands-on skills for working in the zoo and wildlife sector while applying your academic learning in real-world settings. This practical experience helps strengthen your employability after graduation.

After completing the first year, you can graduate with a Certificate of Higher Education (CertHE) in Zoological Management and Conservation, or progress to Year 2 of the Foundation Degree (FdSc). On successful completion of the FdSc, you can then continue to the Level 6 top-up year, which leads to the award of a BSc (Hons).

Flexible Study Options

Part-time study routes are available.

For further information, please contact the Higher Education Admissions team at HEadmissions@sgscol.ac.uk.

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