STUDY

Undergraduate

BSc (Hons) Zoo Science and Management (with Foundation Year)*

Institution code: S82
UCAS code: D301
Start date: September 2027
Duration: Four years full-time, four and a half to nine years part-time
Location: Ipswich
Typical Offer: 80 UCAS tariff points (or above), CDD (A-Level), MMP (BTEC), Pass (T Level)
Institution code: S82
UCAS code: D301
Start date: September 2027
Duration: Four years full-time, four and a half to nine years part-time
Location: Ipswich
Typical Offer: 80 UCAS tariff points (or above), CDD (A-Level), MMP (BTEC), Pass (T Level)
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* Subject to validation

Overview

The BSc (Hons) Zoo Science and Management (with Foundation Year) course at the University of Suffolk is run in partnership with Colchester Zoological Society and combines academic study with real-world, industry-focused learning at one of the UK’s leading zoological institutes.

The Foundation year is designed to give you the best possible preparation for the BSc (Hons) Zoo Science and Management. You will receive training in core scientific skills, fundamental theory in biology and practical skills in the lab and field. Designed for aspiring zoo professionals, this unique degree provides a strong scientific background in zoology and wildlife conservation and equips you with the skills required for a range of careers in modern zoological institutions. 

During the course, you will study animal behaviour, welfare, and husbandry and gain practical experience within a working zoo.  You will also have opportunities to contribute to conservation projects in both the UK and abroad, applying your knowledge to real-world conservation challenges.  Unlike traditional animal management courses, this degree also provides students with training in conservation education, zoological research, collection planning, zoo business and management — areas that are increasingly sought after by employers within the sector. The last year of study will be based at Colchester Zoological Society.

If you are passionate about protecting biodiversity, advancing animal welfare, and contributing to global zoo conservation efforts, this course is for you!

Why Choose This Course?

  • Exclusive Industry Partnership: Learn directly from zoo professionals and expert academic lecturers.
  • Hands-on Experience: Put theory into practice with direct access to cutting-edge research and professional zoological facilities.
  • Beyond the Science: Gain highly sought-after skills in zoo business, public engagement, conservation education, advocacy and zoological management.

 

 

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH Colchester Zoological Society

The University of Suffolk has an international profile while being committed to our region. We are proudly modern and innovative and we believe in transformative education. We are on the rise with a focus on student satisfaction, graduate prospects, spending on academic services and student facilities.

1st

for Lecturers and Teaching Quality

(Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2026)
4th

for Career Prospects (Winner for East of England)

(Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2026)
1st

for International

(Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2026)

Course Modules

Downloadable information regarding all University of Suffolk courses, including Key Facts, Course Aims, Course Structure and Assessment, is available in the Definitive Course Record.  

Student with chimpanzee

WHY SUFFOLK

1st University of the Year

WhatUni Student Choice Awards 2025

2nd Teaching Satisfaction

Guardian University Guide 2026

2nd Student Experience

Good University Guide
Student with giraffe
Students research ‘bioacoustics’ (wildlife sound) at Colchester Zoo
Student with monkeys
Students studying monkeys at Colchester Zoo

Entry Requirements

Career Opportunities

This programme will equip you with the knowledge, skills and experience required to enter zoo, wildlife and conservation careers

  • Zoo/animal keeper
  • Conservation educators
  • Research officers
  • Animal welfare officer
  • Species recovery or reintroduction project officer
  • Wildlife researcher
  • Ecological consultant or surveyor
  • Environmental protection or sustainability officer
  • Conservation programme coordinator
  • Media, marketing, or communications roles in conservation organisations
  • Wildlife policy advisor
  • NGO project manager or coordinator
  • Fundraising or development officer (conservation NGOs or zoos)
  • Wildlife licensing or compliance Officer (e.g., DEFRA, Natural England)

 

Our Careers, Employability and Enterprise Team are here to support you, not only whilst you complete your studies, but after you graduate and beyond.

To find out more about our range of services and support, please visit our Careers, Employability and Enterprise page.

Your Course Team

Dr Mark Bowler

Mark is Course Leader in Wildlife, Ecology and Conservation Science. He works on wildlife distributions and the effects of human activity on animal populations.

Hei Sung

Hei is a lecturer in wildlife and conservation at the School of Health, Sciences and Society, joining in August 2023.

h.sung@uos.ac.uk

Dr David Collins

David is an evolutionary ecologist who specialises in social biology and ageing

d.collins4@uos.ac.uk

Richard Farrar

Richard teaches and leads a number of modules on the School’s undergraduate programmes including BSc Nutrition and Human Health.

David Bowers

David is Senior Lecturer in Life Sciences (Maths) and a mathematician, statistician and learning developer.

Fees and Funding

UK Full-time Tuition Fee

£10,050*

per year
UK Part-time Tuition Fees

£2,512.50*

per 30 credit module
International Full-time Tuition Fee

£16,500

per year

*Please note, the University reserves the right to increase its fees in line with changes to legislation, regulation and any government guidance or decisions. **Please contact Student Centre for further information on part-time fees.

The decision to study a degree is an investment into your future, there are various means of support available to you in order to help fund your tuition fees and living costs. You can apply for funding from the Spring before your course starts.

UK Fees and Finance UK Bursaries and Scholarships International Fees and Scholarships

How to Apply

To study this course on a full-time basis, you can apply through UCAS or if you are an International applicant, you can use our dedicated International application form, use the Further Information link below.

Apply Now Further Information on Applying

Related Courses

Plant cell under microscope
BSc (Hons) Wildlife, Ecology and Conservation Science (with Foundation year)

If you share our passion for understanding and conserving nature and wildlife, this course is ideal for you, and opens the door to many established and emerging careers. 

Close-up of a leaf
BSc (Hons) Wildlife, Ecology and Conservation Science

If you share our passion for understanding and conserving nature and wildlife, this course is ideal for you, and opens the door to many established and emerging careers.

BSc (Hons) Zoo Science and Management

This three year course runs in partnership with the Colchester Zoological Society.

Destination Suffolk