STUDY

Undergraduate

BSc (Hons) Zoo Science and Management*

Course options:	Professional Placement
Institution code:	S82
UCAS code:	D300
Start date:	September 2027
Duration:	Three years full-time, four and a half to nine years part-time
Location:	Ipswich
Typical Offer:	112 UCAS tariff points or above, BBC (A-Level), DMM (BTEC), Merit (T Level)

Course options:	Professional Placement
Institution code:	S82
UCAS code:	D300
Start date:	September 2027

Duration:	Three years full-time, four and a half to nine years part-time
Location:	Ipswich
Typical Offer:	112 UCAS tariff points or above, BBC (A-Level), DMM (BTEC), Merit (T Level)

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Overview

Study at University, Learn in a Zoo.

The BSc (Hons) Zoo Science and Management 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.

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 you 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

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.

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

112 UCAS Points (or above)

BBC (A-Level)
DMM (BTEC)
Merit (T Level)
Pass in Access to HE Diploma.

How to Apply Entry Requirements Explained

A science related subject* is required at grade C or above (or equivalent). *Suitable science related subjects include: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Botany, Zoology, Psychology, Environmental Studies, Geology, Geography, Human Biology, Engineering and Electronics, Mathematics and Further Mathematics. Please note Physical Education and Sports Science do not count as science related subjects, and General Studies will not be considered.

All applicants are required to hold GCSE English and Maths at Grade C/4 or above (or Level 2 equivalents).

IELTS 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components) where English is not the student's first language. You can read more about our English language requirements here.

Applicants whose first language is not English, but who have been living in the UK for 2 years or more will be expected to hold GCSE English at Grade C or above, (grade 4-9 for the new GCSEs) or the relevant Level 2 equivalent (if applicable).

Please select your country of permanent residence from the list below, specific requirements for your country will then be shown.

International Home

GO TO COUNTRY PAGE

Transferring Credit

If you have previously studied at higher education level before you may be able to transfer credits to a related course at the University of Suffolk and reduce the period of study time necessary to achieve your degree.

Further information on Recognition of Prior Learning

Students aged 21 or over at the start of their course are regarded as mature students. The University of Suffolk offers a flexible admissions policy for mature students, which takes into account life and work experience.

Applying as a mature student

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

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

Facilities and Resources

Whatever you choose to study, you will learn in state-of-the-art surroundings. We have invested across the University to create an environment showcasing the latest teaching facilities enabling you to achieve great things.

Every teaching room has state-of-the-art AV equipment enhancing students learning experience and spread across the open study areas there are approximately 50 iMacs. The dual function technology allows students to choose between Microsoft Windows and Apple Mac software, allowing students to utilise the technology that best supports their chosen field of study.

The Waterfront Building supports flexible learning with open study on all floors, where students can access networked computers.

Lecture Theatre in the Waterfront building

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

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) Wildlife, Ecology and Conservation Science (with Foundation Year)

This degree will give you the opportunity to study zoology, ecology, environmental and conservation science, in one of the UK’s renowned wildlife hotspots.

BSc (Hons) Zoo Science and Management (with Foundation year)

A course that works in partnership with Colchester Zoological Society

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STUDY

BSc (Hons) Zoo Science and Management*