Loss of biodiversity is an increasing concern at national, European and global levels. Our BSc Wildlife Conservation with Zoo Biology course is designed to provide you with a broad understanding of wildlife, biodiversity and conservation, while also offering more specialist training in zoo conservation and biology.

Throughout the course, you will build your knowledge through core modules covering topics such as conservation biology and conservation in zoos, while building practical skills through modules such as field biology and research skills. You can also choose to spend your second year studying with our partner Otterbein University in the USA, and in your final year, you will complete a research project based on a subject topic of your choice.

Learning Experience

We put fieldwork at the heart of your learning experience. You'll have plenty of opportunities to get involved in UK-based residential courses going to places such as Blencathra in Cumbria and the Isle of Cumbrae in Scotland. You will also have the chance to take specialist modules, where you will travel to tropical locations for fieldwork. In recent years students have been to locations such as Gambia and Brazil.

Small group, research-led teaching is another key course benefit. During your studies, you will spend time in our advanced Bodmer laboratories, and you might also have opportunities to engage with live research projects.

Study in the USA

This course includes the option to gain international experience by spending your second year studying at our partner Otterbein University in the USA. You will choose from a range of interesting modules and benefit from Otterbein's close links with local zoos and aquariums.

Industry Placement

On this course, you will have the option to take an industry placement year between years two and three. Although you will be responsible for securing your placement, our tutors will support you in finding a role, and monitor your progress throughout.

Industry placements are an excellent way to enhance your CV, gain hands-on work experience and build industry connections. We often find that placement students achieve higher final-year grades.

Year one

• Biodiversity
• Global Distribution Wildlife
• Field Biology
• Genes to Ecosystems
• Study Skills
• Introduction to Zoo Biology

Year two - University of Salford

• Conservation Biology
• Wildlife Behavioural Ecology
• Conservation in Zoos
• Research Skills

Choose one option from the following:

• Animal Welfare: Science and Practice
• Primate Behaviour and Conservation
• University Wide Language Programme

And one option from the following:

• Animal Evolution

• Ecology in Action

Year Two - Otterbein University, USA

Otterbein University

Year three

• Zoo and Exhibit Design

Choose one option from

• Final Year Project and Professional Skills (HANS)
• Final Year Project with Science Communication and Professional Skills

Plus one option from

• Animal Cognition and Social Complexity
• Environmental Geographical Information Systems
• University Wide Language Programme
• Tropical Ecology and Conservation

Add one option from

• Practical Ecology and Conservation
• Applied Freshwater Biology
• Veterinary and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases
• Tropical Ecology and Conservation
• University Wide Language Programme

The course is designed to help you to develop a range of personal and professional skills which will make you highly employable. These include building specialised wildlife conservation knowledge, as well as report writing, data interpretation, teamwork and project management skills.

Zoos hold an important role in the conservation of biodiversity, with many species now bred in captivity as part of national, regional and international breeding programmes. As a result, it is likely that zoos will increase their breeding, scientific and educational activities in the future. Equipped with this degree, you will be well-placed to pursue these career opportunities.

You have many opportunities to work in voluntary and government conservation organisations operating at local, national and international levels. Opportunities also exist for you to work in environmental consultancies, environmental education and in zoos. Previous students have gained employment in zoos, country parks, animal sanctuaries and environmental consultancies.