Animal Care & Zoology

UCAS code: CC94

Here's what University of the West of Scotland says about its Animal Care & Zoology course.

Overview

Get ready to pursue a career in the animal care and welfare or zoological sciences with UWS’s BSc (Hons) Animal Care and Zoology degree.

This degree will give you a grounding in the biological sciences before progressing to more advanced topics in the animal care and zoological fields. You will also develop the skills and knowledge to run a business in the animal care sector.

There is a focus on practical work using modern techniques, fostering transferable skills and developing research and problem-solving abilities.

Our team of experts will prepare you for a rewarding career in a broad range of biological, animal care and zoological sciences.

Course Highlights

• This programme offers a unique combination of animal care and welfare, traditional zoology and business modules • A focus on practical and field work, including a residential field trip, is a feature of this programme. • Training from industry professionals will demonstrate how you can apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations • An emphasis is placed on interactive learning and assessment, including case studies and technical skills development. • Work-based learning allows you to apply your knowledge in a real-world setting and develop the skills sought after by employers.

Careers

By undertaking the BSc (Hons) Animal Care and Zoology degree you will develop skills enabling a rewarding career working with animals both within Scotland or overseas. Graduates can find roles in veterinary clinics, animal welfare organisations, zoos, wildlife conservation projects, environmental consultancies, research and also in animal-related businesses such as pet services or agriculture. Progression into taught or research-focussed postgraduate study is also possible, including MSc, MRes and PhD degrees.

Work-based learning is incorporated into the degree in a third-year module and an optional year-long sandwich placement. This opportunity can help to provide relevant skills and experience that will boost your employment prospects upon graduation.

Year 1

A general introduction to various biological disciplines, from cell and molecular aspects to ecological and environmental topics. You will be introduced to the role of an animal care professional and research animal-specific topics. Additionally, you will receive an introduction to the University’s Virtual Learning Environment.

Year 2

Studies focus on more specialised areas of animal science and zoology including animal nutrition and behaviour and vertebrate physiology, as well as business creation.

Year 3

You will deepen your knowledge of animal care and zoology with core modules in animal husbandry, practical animal care, conservation and wildlife biology, in addition to a module on running a business. You can also choose to take part in a work-related learning module in a relevant area of interest. You will also complete practical training with an industry partner and a residential field trip.

Year 4

You will study specialist animal care and zoology areas such as animal health and zoonosis, animal welfare and legislation and behavioural ecology. A critical part of the Year 4 curriculum is a supervised project where you participate in research in a subject area of your choice.

You will be taught through a combination of lectures, laboratories, tutorials and workshops.

You will also have the opportunity to take part in group work and independent learning to develop your transferable skills such as research, presentation, communication and working as part of a team.

This degree is assessed using a variety of assessment methods including: • Written examinations • Coursework • Practical assessment