Applied Zoo Biology (Taught)

What makes UCS special?
As a UCS student you will benefit from lecturers with a wealth of industry experience that comes from working with BIAZA and EAZA research committees/ working groups and a wide range of zoos. UCS is also supporting member of the ABTC and staff are members of the Fellowship of Animal Behaviour Clinicians. Our teaching staff have experience and expertise in all areas of animal work including veterinary nursing, health and welfare, research, zoo industry and husbandry and animal behaviour and training.

UCS has an unrivalled collection of animals and species in its purpose-built Animal Health and Welfare Research Centre and was one of the first colleges in the country to be awarded a zoo licence and is part of The National Zoo Academy. The centre offers a wide variety of habitat styles and management systems to maximise the student learning potential and experience.

Why choose this degree?

• Taught by industry experts who are research active and have strong national and international links

• Benefit from one of the largest collections of animals in our BIAZA-member Animal Health and Welfare Research Centre (AHWRC)

• Possibility to undertake a six-month industry placement and research project

What will I learn?
Practical application of species’ biology will be evaluated and developed alongside of methods that can be utilised to critique current welfare and husbandry standards, and build an evidence base for animal management. The roles of the modern zoo are considered in line with the World Zoo and Aquarium Conservation Strategy with future trends identified and discussed.

Key concepts in population management and conservation biology are applied to modern zoo theory and practice with the use of industry specific software (for example ZIMS) integrated into the delivery of such information.

You will explore how visitors engage with, and learn from, the numerous opportunities provided within the zoo. We draw on the principles of interpretation, exhibit design and recreational learning theory, while considering the cultural and social context of the zoo and the visitor’s motivations and expectations. Methods of delivering the zoo message will be examined, with evaluation of the effectiveness and impact of provision a key theme of the course.

Each year students can undertake a six‑month placement in industry where they gain valuable practical experience alongside of completing an industry‑endorsed research project

How will I be assessed
Our assessments mirror the challenges you may face in your career, combining academic depth with practical application:

• A research dissertation that addresses real‑world animal science problems

• Field‑based assignments that allow you to showcase your subject‑specific skills to employers

• A range of presentation types and written assignments that develop key graduate skills such as communication expertise, synthesis of sources and discussion of evidence.

Where can I go from here?
Career pathways include zoo or conservation research, environmental education or zoo management. Alternatively you may choose to study a doctorate or a career in lecturing.

Course Modules

• Research project and research methods

• Evidence‑based husbandry

• Contemporary issues in zoo biology

• Visitor studies and interpretation