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Who is this course for?
This is an ideal programme for graduates of an animal based foundation degree or HND wishing to further their study to gain a full honours degree. Learners will be expected to have an interest in specific animal populations. The course concentrates on aspects of environmental surveying, visitor management and wildlife conservation. In addition, learners will also undertake research in an area of their interest. This qualification provides graduates with the potential for employment in a range of animal conservation professions and aims to develop management skills and knowledge, alongside research techniques and evaluative thinking.
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Course Description
This higher level programme develops academic knowledge in conjunction with management and practical skills within the field of animal conservation. Studies will be supported with the use of environmentally important local habitats. In addition, links with industry can be maintained through student led dissertation topics. Each year there is the opportunity to explore the animal conservation industry by participating in various optional day trips and/or an overnight study tour.
Access to excellent resources and facilities both on-site and in the surrounding areas. The Centre is set close to many areas of outstanding natural beauty; including Exmoor National Park, the Quantocks and Somerset Levels. Facilities at the College include the extensive Animal Management Centre, Rodway Farm and the College estate. The qualification has been designed in collaboration with industry ensuring that learners will develop the necessary skills and knowledge for employment.
During the programme learners will study five core modules and one optional module:
Modules include:
- Pollution and conservation; principles and techniques
- Visitor management and education
- Wildlife conservation and biodiversity
- Advanced ecological survey techniques
- Dissertation
- Current affairs (option)
- Aquatic conservation and management (option)
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Teaching and Assessment
The modules are either assessed via 100% coursework or a combination of coursework and formal examination. Coursework comprises written/practical reports, in-class tests, case studies, essays, viva’s oral presentations and posters. A dissertation allows independent research in a topic of interest, developed with staff on the programme.
Learners will attend college two days a week. Additional self-study outside of college hours is expected. It is recommended that learners allow an additional day in order to complete dissertation research.
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Career Progression
The course could help learners gain employment as a conservation officer or various roles within national or international conservation organisations or projects. Employment as an education officer or lecturer may also be an option. In addition, upon completion of the BSc (Hons) top-up, a Master’s Degree or PhD could be a progression route. Graduates could advance to an MSc in Ecology or Zoo/Primate Conservation.
In addition, graduates could gain employment within a variety of national or international countryside or conservation bodies, wildlife organisations and educational roles.
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Entry Requirements
A foundation degree or HND in a related subject, plus at least 4 GCSE’s at A* to C or 9 - 4 range including Maths, English and Science or level 2 equivalent.
Mature students with relevant experience are encouraged to apply -
Costs
£7,200 per annum
Additional Costs:
- PPE is required for practical’s: steel toe-capped boots or wellingtons plus blue overalls maybe needed. They can be obtained from agricultural stores.
- Waterproof clothing, sensible walking boots, binoculars and high visibility jackets maybe required for working in external environments.
- Text books will be recommended to support learning at the start of each module.