FdSc Animal Management Full-time

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)£9,790

LocationPartner centre

Course summary

If you’re passionate about working with animals, this course is a great place to start. You'll gain the knowledge and experience needed for a range of animal-related careers.

You’ll learn from professionals in the animal industry. The course covers:

Animal care and health
Conservation
Biological sciences
Academic and research skills.

You’ll gain hands-on experience with work placements. You'll undertake your placement in places like zoos, farms, and animal centres. You’ll work alongside professionals and build the skills and confidence employers want.

Study takes place at East Durham College’s Houghall Campus. It has excellent facilities, including:

A small animal care centre
Dog grooming studio
Kennel unit
Dog agility area
Veterinary nursing training space
Agricultural and equine centres
Science labs
Horticultural facilities.

After completing the two-year foundation degree, you can top up to a full honours degree(opens in new tab). This involves 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.

After graduation, you could work for a range of potential employers. These might include zoos, the RSPCA, or overseas wildlife conservation organisations. You could also work for 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. You'll also take part in lectures, discussions, case studies and workshops. You’ll also be encouraged to build your 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. This 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. Please contact 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 bring it with you when you visit the University. You'll need it to access buildings and facilities.

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

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. It's important you keep 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£9,790

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. These are to buy uniforms and safety equipment. You can buy these 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. This 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
Apply now

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 you're offered a place, we’ll contact you in writing if anything important changes.

For more information, view our programme specifications. These include course content, learning outcomes, and the skills you'll gain.