FdSc Animal Management

Study a variety of animal-related topics. Learn about the fundamentals of animal husbandry and health, introduction to animal biological sciences, conservation, and academic skill development. Work with animals in a range of contexts from farm life to wildlife.

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Start date/study mode:

UCAS codeDN32

Duration2 years

Fee (UK)£9,535

LocationPartner centre

Course summary

If you’re passionate about working with animals, the FdSc Animal Management course is a fantastic way to get started. This hands-on, career-focused degree is designed to equip you with the essential knowledge and practical experience you’ll need to work in a wide range of animal-related jobs.

Delivered by professionals from the animal industry, the course covers everything from animal husbandry and health to conservation, biological sciences, and developing your academic and research skills. It’s all about combining theory with practice, so you’ll not only learn the ‘why’ behind animal care, but also how to apply that knowledge in real-life situations.

Work placements are built into the course, giving you the chance to gain valuable, hands-on experience in settings like zoos, farms, and animal centres. You’ll learn alongside animal carers, conservationists, and other professionals, helping you build the skills and confidence employers are looking for.

You’ll be based at East Durham College’s Houghall Campus, which offers excellent facilities, including a purpose-built small animal care centre; dog grooming studio and kennel unit; dog agility area; veterinary nursing training space; agricultural and equine centres; science labs; and horticultural facilities.

After completing the two-year foundation degree, you can top up to a full honours degree with just one more year of study. Career opportunities may include:

Animal collection manager
Zookeeper
Animal scientist
Research officer
Education manager
Animal welfare manager
Animal trainer or handler.

You could work for a range of potential employers such as zoos, the RSPCA, overseas wildlife conservation organisations, recreation services, the police, local authorities, and schools.

How you'll learn

You'll be taught at Houghall Campus(opens in new tab) at East Durham College.

Teaching methods include practical sessions at the college and in industry settings, lectures, discussions, case studies and workshops. You'll also be encouraged to develop independent study skills.

Assessment methods include evaluation of work experience, reports, presentations, and practical tests.

Library support

You can access library support through both your college library and University Library Services.

You can:

Visit your college library buildings and borrow print books
Visit University library buildings and borrow print books
Use online library services and resources at both the University and your college
Find support from the University Partnership Liaison Team, University Library Services, and your college library.

Read more about what you can access on the University Library Services website(opens in new tab).

Entry requirements

Our typical offer is:

64 UCAS Tariff points from Level 3 or equivalent qualifications, which must include at least one biology unit at level 3
A minimum of five GCSE subjects at grade 4 including English, maths, and science (preferably biology) or equivalent Level 2 qualifications.

If you have no formal qualifications, you may qualify through substantial, relevant work-based experience. You may be asked to attend an interview and present a portfolio of evidence.

Any queries about the course should be made directly to the course team by contacting either:

Rebecca Sweet, Course Leader: rebecca.sweet@eastdurham.ac.uk

James Mulvany, Programme Leader: james.mulvany@eastdurham.ac.uk

Enrolment information

You'll enrol as a student at both your chosen college and the University. You'll apply for a campus card, which is your University ID, library, and Students' Union card. Remember to carry it with you when you visit the University campus as you'll need it to access some buildings and facilities.

As a University student, you'll automatically become a member of the Students' Union(opens in new tab). You'll be able to access benefits such as student discounts (you can apply for a TOTUM card via the TOTUM website(opens in new tab)).

For further information on enrolment and becoming a new student, see our welcome page. Here, you'll find details on applying for your campus card and how to update your personal details (as it's important you keep both the University and your college informed of any changes in your personal circumstances).

During your studying, there are processes in place that allow you to raise issues with both the college and the University.

Please note, this course is not available to international students.

Fees and finance support

UK£9,535

You'll pay your fees directly to the University. Learn how to apply for your student finance and find out more about financial support.

There'll be around £100 in additional costs to purchase uniforms and safety equipment which you can buy directly from the college.

There's an opportunity to join the college on an optional Project Wild Gambia(opens in new tab) trip in year 2 which would cost approximately £1,250 (excluding flights). This is subject to change each year.

Check your fee status(opens in new tab).

See all course tuition fees.

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Start date/study mode:

UK students

Full-time September 2026
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Disclaimer

We want to make sure you have clear and accurate information about our courses. Our website always shows the latest updates. If you’ve applied and been offered a place, we’ll contact you in writing if anything important changes.

View our programme specifications(opens in new tab) for further information about what the course covers, learning outcomes and the skills you'll gain when you graduate.