BSc (Hons) Animal Management Degree Sparsholt College Hampshire

BSc (Hons) Animal Management Degree

The aim of the degree course is to provide education to students who wish to expand their knowledge of animal management systems and who are interested in developing research techniques in aspects of animal welfare and behavior, animal collections management, and wildlife management.

The course is based on a firm science foundation including the key biological sciences, biochemistry, and vertebrate anatomy and physiology.

Previous students have progressed into careers in the industry including some in zoological collections, animal charities and conservation. Other students have continued in education to the postgraduate level.

Teaching and Learning

The strong science foundation in year one is built on with the study of nutrition in a variety of species, as well as animal health. The Population Biology, Ethology, and Applied Animal Behaviour and Welfare units introduce research skills and provide opportunities for exploring specific topic areas of personal interest. Units covering veterinary science, animal trade and conservation biology provide insight into the diversity of the life sciences jobs market.

The programme’s strong data analysis theme prepares you for research projects in the final year. Employment areas, such as Animal Health Inspector or Field Researcher, as well as opportunities for higher-level study will be explored through coursework, field trips and a broad range of guest speakers. Visits off-site provide experience of an array of animal management industries and support in-class learning, showing theory put into practice. In year three, you will choose, design, and conduct an independent research project leading to completion of a dissertation.

Practical animal handling skills, husbandry techniques, and important management skills are interwoven throughout the whole three years of the course. The section has strong links with the BIAZA, as well as links with local and national conservation organisations.

Assessment Methods and Research Opportunities

Assessment is mostly coursework-based, comprising practical portfolios, laboratory reports, seminars, and essays. Many units were also assessed through an examination.

Students have opportunities to conduct research throughout the courses including a behavioral observation project in the second year. Work placements offer opportunities for students to gather data for the dissertation project which is submitted in the final year.

Recent dissertations have included studies on the diets of the Malayan Tapir, how kennel size affects stress in dogs in a boarding environment, as well as enrichment studies in a variety of species including Aladabra tortoises, harbour seals and lions.

Sparsholt actively submits student work to outside symposia, giving you the opportunity to present your work to the wider world.