Zoo and Aquarium Conservation Biology

Entry requirements

Months of entry

September

Course content

Are you passionate about animal conservation and welfare and keen to shape the zoos and aquariums of the future? Our unique programme is the first of its kind in the world. Study factors affecting animal husbandry and breeding programmes within the context of international zoo management and collaboration. Our partnership with Paignton Zoo gives you access to their connections, research and expertise – so you’re primed to make a difference.

Key features:

• Gain behind-the-scenes access to zoos and insight from industry professionals, in a programme delivered in partnership with Paignton Zoo, part of Wild Planet Trust. During the taught programme, typically two days per week are spent at Paignton or on field trips to local zoos, aquariums, and conservation organisations.
• Learn from specialist academics at Plymouth who conduct the fundamental and applied research that underpins conservation work and advances in animal welfare and husbandry.
• Develop the research skills required to make evidence-based recommendations on enclosure design and husbandry that safeguard health and welfare and encourage expression of natural behaviour.
• Be inspired by a wide range of practical opportunities to help you develop scientific, professional and technical skills as a zoo biologist. This includes a 4-month independent research project to expand on an area of your own interest.
• Follow the taught programme with an optional 6-12 month industry placement in a zoo or aquarium. Applications for these opportunities are open to students who have achieved a merit or higher within their first semester. This placement provides an opportunity to further develop your expertise in context.
• Graduates work in zoos and aquariums as researchers, curators, educators and keepers. Many go on to PhD study or work in further education. Other employers include the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria, and national and international conservation and welfare organisations.

• Understand how to manage small populations for conservation, considering genetics and social structure within a particular zoological collection right up to the level of global species breeding programmes. Learn industry-specialist software used by studbook coordinators to conduct demographic and genetic analysis.
• Understand the particular challenges and skills required to work with aquarium species, with specialist teaching delivered by local aquariums, industry professionals and in our own animal facilities.
• Understand the role of zoos and aquariums in the protection of species through not only breeding programmes, but research, advocacy initiatives and habitat-level conservation. Use tools developed for conservation practitioners to propose, monitor and manage conservation projects.
• Understand the financial, ethical and legal framework in which zoos and aquariums operate as businesses. Develop business skills such as budgeting and proposal-writing to pitch your own ideas for contemporary zoo design and management.
• Develop your communication skills to reach different stakeholders, via website design, persuasive essay-writing, funding pitches, scientific reports and business plans.

Information for international students