Animal Science
Animal science with zoo and wildlife conservation applies the principles of biology, behaviour, ecology, and animal management to the specific challenges of maintaining animal populations in captivity and supporting the conservation of species in their natural habitats. Zoos and wildlife organisations are increasingly important institutions in a world of accelerating biodiversity loss, serving as refuges for endangered species, centres for scientific research, and vehicles for public education about conservation. The professionals who work within them need a sound understanding of animal biology alongside the practical skills of animal husbandry, welfare assessment, and conservation science.
At Anglia Ruskin you will study this three-year full-time programme, developing knowledge of animal anatomy, physiology, behaviour, ecology, and nutrition alongside the specialist skills required in zoo and wildlife management. You will examine animal welfare science, conservation genetics, population biology, and the ethical frameworks that govern the keeping of wild animals in captivity. The programme connects classroom learning to practical experience, giving you grounding in the realities of animal care and management.
The broad animal science foundation ensures you develop transferable knowledge that goes beyond any single species or setting.
Graduates of this programme pursue careers in zoos and safari parks as zookeepers, animal care specialists, curators, and conservation programme coordinators. Wildlife conservation organisations, nature reserves, government wildlife agencies, and animal welfare charities also employ graduates with this combination of skills. The research methods training the degree provides is valuable for those who wish to contribute to wildlife monitoring, species recovery programmes, or scientific research on captive or wild populations.
Many graduates continue to postgraduate study in conservation biology, animal behaviour, wildlife management, or veterinary science, deepening the specialism the undergraduate degree introduces.