Wildlife Conservation with Zoo Biology with Foundation Year

Wildlife conservation with zoo biology addresses the twin challenges of protecting endangered species in wild habitats and managing animals in captive settings in ways that support broader conservation goals. Human activity has driven catastrophic declines in biodiversity across the world, and effective conservation requires people who understand both the ecology of wild populations and the biology and welfare of animals in captivity. Zoos have an increasingly important role in species conservation, including breeding programmes for critically endangered species, public education and scientific research, and this degree prepares you to work effectively in both settings.

At the University of Salford, the four-year full-time programme includes a foundation year, giving you additional preparation before beginning the full degree. You will study the ecology and behaviour of wild animal populations, the principles of conservation biology, population genetics, habitat management and the policy frameworks governing wildlife protection. The zoo biology component develops your understanding of animal management in captivity, including nutrition, health, reproductive biology and welfare, and the ways in which captive populations can contribute to species survival.

The degree includes a sandwich year, a year abroad and a work placement, giving you substantial practical experience in conservation and zoo settings before graduation.

Salford's location in Greater Manchester, close to Chester Zoo, one of the UK's most significant conservation zoos, enriches the professional context of the degree and the practical opportunities available to students.

Graduates work in zoos and wildlife parks, nature reserves, conservation organisations, government agencies, environmental consultancies, national parks and international conservation NGOs. Postgraduate study in conservation biology, wildlife management, zoo management or ecology is a natural next step for those who want to develop research expertise.