FdSc Conservation Science and Animal Management Foundation degree at East Coast College

This module provides you with a foundational understanding of animal anatomy, physiology, and cellular biology, which are essential for careers in animal science, research, and related biological fields. By exploring the structure and function of major organ systems and mechanisms such as homeostasis, you develop the scientific knowledge required to maintain animal health and welfare.

Behavioural ecology in its broadest sense is the study of adaptations, and the selective pressures that yield them, in different ecological environments. Some adaptations are behavioural and sometimes behaviour drives the evolution of new adaptations by creating new selective environments. This module will focus particularly on behaviours and other adaptations that arise as a consequence of interacting with others. There is a strong interest in social evolution, and the selective conditions that

This module provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles and practices involved in the identification and management of wild animal populations. You will develop skills in accurately identifying species and understanding their ecological roles, which is essential for effective conservation and management strategies. The module explores the challenges posed by wildlife, including human-wildlife conflict, and examines approaches to conserving populations in natural and managed environme

This module introduces you to the fundamental principles of animal health and disease, providing essential knowledge for careers in animal care and management. You will explore common pathogens and the role of nutrition in maintaining good health, alongside the causes, transmission, prevention, and treatment of common animal diseases. Emphasis will be placed on recognising clinical signs and understanding how environmental and management factors influence disease occurrence.

This module supports you in developing essential skills for higher education and career success, including communication, independent learning, teamwork, and personal development planning. It emphasises a proactive, self-managed approach to learning and performance, both academically and in the workplace. You will gain vocational experience, reflect on your activities, and identify ways to enhance current and future employability.

Effective breeding programs and the correct management of breeding animals are essential for the success of captive breeding and species reintroduction initiatives. This module builds on genetic principles, applying these fundamentals to the genetic management of small populations. It also explores reproductive technologies critical for managing breeding stock effectively.

This module builds on the concepts delivered in the Level 4 module on Behavioural Ecology and enables you to analyse how a good knowledge of animal behaviour can be used to enhance welfare of captive animals and assist in training and husbandry regimes. You will analyse case studies and receive expert guidance from zoo staff on training and enrichment methods.

Emphasis in this module is placed on current zoo husbandry techniques, modern enclosure design, good management practice, and co-ordination of collections and breeding programmes for endangered species. The module includes the management of health, nutrition and breeding programmes for exotic zoo species and will encompass other key topics such as handling, welfare, behaviour, training, record keeping, enclosure design, legislation and the global community in a zoo context.

With an ever-increasing population there is more pressure on rural environments and the species that inhabit them. In order for wildlife conservation to be effective, both at home and abroad, it is essential people understand the functions of different environments and the impact their actions have on different species. This module provides you with an understanding of the development of environmental education and the different methods of delivering it to all sectors of society.

The ability to plan, manage, carry out, analyse and report on a project is an essential skill and this module enables you to develop skills of independent enquiry, undertaking a sustained investigation into a topic of relevance to their academic and professional development. It gives you the opportunity to develop planning and analytical skills, safe and accurate collection of data and information, precise and appropriate processing of data and information, report writing, presentational and com