Animal Management, Ecology & Conservation

From captive animal health, behaviour and welfare to wildlife conservation and habitat management, students gain industry-relevant skills in both managed and natural environments.

Make a difference to animals and the environment

At our Cannington Campus, students learn within our state-of-the-art Animal Management Centre, home to more than 300 animal species and an extensive collection of traditional and exotic animals. From mammals and birds to reptiles and amphibians, students gain valuable hands-on experience alongside their theoretical learning.

Students benefit from access to:

  • Practical learning in animal health, behaviour, welfare, husbandry, and enrichment
  • On-campus conservation areas designed to develop fieldwork and habitat management skills
  • Off-site ecological training opportunities at locations including Steart Marshes
  • Opportunities for wildlife observation, field studies, and conservation research in real-world environments.
Photo of Green Iguana sitting on wooden log.
Person interacting with a lemur.

Rodway Farm

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Animal Management Centre

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Helpful information

Apprenticeships

If you’re ready to kickstart your career and gain hands-on experience while you study, an apprenticeship at Somerset College could be the perfect next step. We’re proud to be one of the UK’s leading providers of Further Education apprenticeships.

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Accommodation

With priority access given to students studying a land-based course, a specialist subject, or a Higher Education programme, our halls of residence at Taunton and Cannington provide a welcoming home.

Term Dates

Planning ahead? Our academic calendar includes key term dates, bank holidays,
scheduled breaks, and Somerset school holiday alignment, so you can stay informed and
organised throughout the year.

🎓 University-level study on your doorstep

Attend our upcoming Open Events to discuss our courses, chat with academic staff, and get your questions answered. Explore our comprehensive range of Degrees, Higher Apprenticeships, and professional programmes.

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“The working environment at UCS is fantastic and gives you loads of first-hand experience. I work part time as a zookeeper, and it’s been great to have new knowledge and experiences to use in the industry. In the future I would love to be a head keeper in a zoo.”

Sam, Animal Management, Ecology & Conservation BSc graduate
Sam, BSc Animal Management, Ecology & Conservation