FDA Foundation Degree in Animal Management (FdSc) Foundation degree at Derby College Group

The primary aim of this module is to give students the underpinning knowledge required to undertake practical animal husbandry tasks competently and confidently. A range of species will be utilised in this predominantly practical module.

An understanding of how biological systems work is an essential part of students' exploration of the animals with which they will be working. This basic knowledge will enable students to correctly interpret biological evidence in order to make sound scientific decisions about the management of animals.

This module aims to develop an understanding of animal welfare science with an emphasis on the importance of animal health. The roles of disease and disease prevention will be explored. Students will have the opportunity to create and implement a welfare assessment in order to evaluate the suitability of management strategies and suggest improvements.

A detailed understanding of the structure, function and homeostatic mechanisms of the animal body will enable students to apply an understanding of environmental requirements and carry out the effective monitoring of animal health and successful animal management. In this module, students will develop an understanding of the structure and function of animal organ systems, animal support and movement, and the homeostatic mechanisms required to maintain animal health.

Throughout this module, students will have the opportunity to negotiate and perform activities which will enable them to achieve work-related understanding and skills while being supported by their work placement supervisors and module supervisor. Students will produce evidence of carrying out different activities and will recognise the scope of what they have achieved by regularly reflecting on their performance.

This module will introduce students to the study skills required to be successful in higher education. They will be advised on a range of strategies to manage their own time and how to carry out independent learning.

This module aims to develop students' understanding of the nutritional requirements of a variety of species and factors which need to be taken into consideration when designing feeding regimes. An understanding of the chemical composition of nutrients will be required as well as an appreciation of techniques used to analyse animal feed.

This module aims to develop students' understanding of the natural history and anatomy of exotic mammalian species, with an emphasis on morphological and physiological adaptations and characteristics which enable them to thrive within their natural habitats and the implications this has for their husbandry in a captive environment.

Students will consider the key concepts of planning and managing breeding programmes, as well as gaining an in-depth understanding of the principles of heredity, and the application of advanced breeding technologies, including genetic manipulation techniques.

When working with domestic animals, it is essential to have a firm understanding of the biological basis of their behaviours. This module will provide the student with the historical background to ethology and the genetics and evolution of behaviour, including the process of domestication. It will also address the biological control of behaviour and the implications of this for animal welfare.

This module develops the skills learnt in the first year work experience module. It will allow students to reflect on the work they have already carried out and identify areas where further development is required. While doing this, they will reflect on their own practice and complete a professional development plan (PDP). To support this, students will be guided on how to plan for their career, hear from a range of visiting speakers and explore the role professional bodies can play in supportin

This unit will enhance students' understanding and use of the methodologies employed when carrying out research. It will develop students' knowledge of the range of information sources and will equip them with the skills to plan, conduct, interpret and present data from research projects, supported by statistical analysis. By completing this module, students will gain vital preparation to assist them in undertaking their own research in their future studies or careers.