HND Animal Behaviour and Wildlife Conservation

1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the behaviour of animals in their natural and captive environments

2. Use the knowledge of the behaviour, ecology and biology of animals in order to effect the protection and conservation of species and their habitats

3. Survey species and habitats successfully using the appropriate methods and practical skills in preparation for subsequent employment

4. Understand the nature and extent of the practice of wildlife conservation and the wildlife conservation industry, allowing you to become an effective practitioner and advocate.

5. Plan and execute wildlife-oriented studies with consideration for the unique ethical and welfare aspects of working with animals

As a diplomate of HND Animal Behaviour and Wildlife Conservation you will have experience of a diverse mix of field-based information collection/recording, practical activity and office-based work that is unmatched in most other subject areas. As a result many diplomates use their behavioural and conservation skills and knowledge to enter into employment with wildlife conservation organizations in both the public or voluntary sectors. Examples range from statutory bodies such as Natural England through to general Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) such as The Wildlife Trusts and species-specific NGOs such as Butterfly Conservation and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds. Opportunities for employment extend beyond the UK as many organisations based in the UK or in other countries work overseas in areas from the tropics to the polar regions

HND qualifications are widely-recognised in the scientific establishment as vocational courses which prepare students for vocational employment.
This course is designed to progress seamlessly to the appropriate BSc (Hons) degree.
Where you have a stronger and specific interest in animal behaviour and captive environments you will be able to seek out additional career options with zoos, aquaria, game parks and other animal collections. Here you can bring your expertise to bear on all aspects of species management.

32 UCAS Points
EE from A Levels to include at least one Science subject, preferably Biology
BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Applied Science or Animal Management with PP
Access to HE Diploma (60 credits) with 45 credits at Level 3 and 18 of these Level 3 credits must be in Science

The course develops from descriptive and skills-based study in the first year through to interpretative and evaluative work in the final year. The overall aim is to prepare you for the world of employment through providing sound basic knowledge which can be applied to the characteristic situations encountered in animal-based work. The two most distinctive features of the course are;

(1) A focus on study outside of the classroom through fieldwork and the encouragement of independent study and work experience; and,
(2) An equal emphasis on behaviour and conservation allowing the investigation of the effects of one aspect on the other. We strongly believe in this link and encourage you to consider how to apply your behavioural knowledge to improve wildlife conservation.