BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour and Wildlife Conservation

You will develop knowledge and understanding of:

The theory of how and why animals behave both individually and in social groups;
The legislative framework for wildlife conservation and conservation practice;
The diversity of living organisms, their structure and life processes;
The classification and identification of animals and their habitats;
Recent advances in behavioural and conservation science and the philosophical and ethical issues involved;
How to use the knowledge of the behaviour, ecology and biology of animals in order to effect the protection and conservation of species and their habitats.

A graduate of Animal Behaviour and Wildlife Conservation is qualified to seek employment opportunities within a range of careers. Whilst some may continue to higher degree studies (PGCE, MA, MSc, MPhil or PhD), many others enter into employment with organisations in both the public or voluntary sectors such as Natural England, The Wildlife Trusts and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds.

Those graduates with a strong behavioural interest often follow careers with zoos, aquaria, game parks and other animal collections where they can bring their expertise to bear on all aspects of species management.
The mix of field-based information collection/recording, practical activity and office-based work is unmatched in most other subject areas. A degree in the relevant area gives individuals a head-start in securing the interesting careers that others envy and will guarantee experiences that will last a lifetime.

96 UCAS points
A Levels - grades CCC / BCD to include a Science subject, preferably Biology.
BTEC L3 Extended Diploma or OCR Cambridge L3 Technical Extended Diploma - grades MMM (in Animal Management or Applied Science)
Access to HE Diploma: 45 Level 3 credits at Merit

Royal Society of Biology
"Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology for the purpose of meeting, in part, the academic and experience requirement of membership and Chartered Biologist (CBiol)."

Year 1 offers a thorough introduction to animal behaviour and the fundamentals of conservation. It also introduces key aspects of ecology, evolution and diversity, biogeography, physiology and ethology. A particular emphasis is placed on the techniques and the skills required for effective fieldwork.

Year 2 looks more closely at the theories behind the ways in which animals interact with each other and with their physical environments. A strong emphasis is put on developing research skills alongside experience of planning and undertaking data collection outside of the classroom. Aspects of conservation biology such as landscape ecology, conservation genetics and the role of captive populations are examined. Options for international field courses and work placements are available.
Year 3 offers an optional sandwich year or alternatively you could progress directly to your final year. This provides more detailed study of animal behaviour and its application in practical wildlife conservation in a range of settings from reserve design and landscape-scale conservation initiatives through to management of captive populations. Further opportunities for international field courses may be offered and you will also undertake and write up your own research project.