FdSc Management of Aquatics & Conservation of Oceans
Course Details
-
Department
Animal Management -
Qualification
Level 5 -
Course Type
Full Time -
Length
2 Years -
Location(s)
York
Course at a glance
Dive into the future of ocean conservation and aquatics management with our forward-thinking FdSc Management of Aquatics and Conservation of Oceans programme. Designed for those with an appreciation for aquatic life and a desire to make a real impact in the fight to preserve our oceans, this programme offers a unique blend of skills tailored to propel you into a career in aquatic conservation and aquatic care.
UCAS Code
D327
Awarding Body: Askham Bryan College
Centre Code
A70
What you will learn
As aquatic species face unprecedented threats, there’s never been a more crucial time to join the ranks of those dedicated to their preservation. Our programme uniquely bridges the gap between in-situ (in the natural environment) and ex-situ (in artificial settings) conservation efforts, delving into the ethical considerations of aquatic life care, from public aquariums to zoo-based aquatic systems.
At the heart of our curriculum is the goal to advance knowledge in captive breeding and uphold exemplary husbandry standards, critical components in the rapidly evolving industry of aquatic life management. As global awareness shifts towards ocean conservation, this programme will give you the opportunity to build expertise to lead initiatives that make a lasting difference.
University Centre Askham Bryan is not just a place of learning; it’s a gateway to hands-on experience in real-world conservation and species management. Our campus boasts its own BIAZA accredited Askham Bryan Wildlife and Conservation Park, offering students access to a high spec living collection of aquatic species. Here, theory meets practice, as you’re invited to engage directly with our conservation efforts, gaining practical skills and insights that extend far beyond the classroom.
Through this programme, you could emerge not just with a qualification, but with a mission, to contribute to the vital conservation of one of our planet’s most precious resources.
This course is 2-years full time (part-time study may also be available – contact he@askham-bryan.ac.uk for more information about part-time study).
Year 1 Modules
- Diversity of Life
- Academic Writing and Research
- Aquatic Health and Husbandry
- Applied Aquatic Ecology
- Anthroecology
Elective Modules (elect one)
- River and Ocean Systems
- Exotic Animal Behaviour
*We cannot guarantee placement on your preferred elective if the module does not meet the minimum enrolment requirements or is oversubscribed due to resource limitations*.
Year 2 Modules
- Independent Research Project
- Collections Management
- Advanced Aquatic Systems
- Introduction to Conservation Genetics
- Ocean Sustainability and Future for Industry
Elective Modules (elect one)
- Principles of Animal Training
- Management of Habitats and Protected Areas
- Conservation Education
*We cannot guarantee placement on your preferred elective if the module does not meet the minimum enrolment requirements or is oversubscribed due to resource limitations*.
Programme Specification
Programme Specification FdSc Management of Aquatics and Conservation of Oceans 2025
Key Information
Applicants should have achieved:Â
- 64 UCAS Points (2025/26 entry)
- 5 GCSE’s including Maths English and Science at Grade C/4 or above. Equivalent qualifications may be accepted in lieu of GCSE’s. Applicants must have successfully completed a full Level 3 study and/or have significant industry experience.Â
Some students may be asked to attend an interview. Â
Applicants who believe they may be eligible for Accreditation of Prior Certificated and/or Experiential Learning (APCL/APEL) will be considered on an individual basis.Â
If you have any queries in relation to entry qualifications, then please contact the University Centre directly.
On successful completion, students may wish to consider progressing onto one of the University Centre’s top-up courses, (BSc Zoo Management, BSc Animal Conservation or BSc Animal Management) allowing students to graduate with a BSc or BSc(Hons) degree.
Students studying the course may enter a wide variety of roles in the industry. This includes an aquarist, zoo keeper, scientific researcher, wildlife manager, lecturer, animal trainer or working on the field of conservation education.
UK, Isle of Man and Channel Isles Students on BSc Honours Degree/ BSc Top up/ Foundation Degree/ Extended Foundation Degree – £9,000
Please note that the fee status of each applicant will be assessed prior to any offer being made (Home Fee or Overseas/International Fee). Where required further information may be requested ensure the correct fee status is allocated. For further information about on studying in the UK and fee status, please visit UKCISA
Non-Home (Overseas Students) on Honours Degree/ Foundation Degree/ Extended Foundation Degree – £14,000
This programme requires students to undertake 300 hours of work placement, with 150 completed each academic year. Work placement is completed with an external provider which is arranged by the student.
All work placements are subject to a health and safety check by the college to ensure that placements are suitable and safe. Support can be made available via the module tutor to help locate a suitable placement.
If you are already working in the sector, it may be possible to APEL (Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning) this element of the course. Evidence of such employment will be needed, outlining duties etc for consideration at the APL panel, where applications will be considered on an individual basis. If you have any queries in relation to this, then please contact the University Centre team directly.
University Centre Askham Bryan fosters diverse talents and skills through a range of engaging assessment methods tailored to hone industry standard subject skills, as well as transferable skills and graduate attributes. From traditional coursework to time-constrained assessments that sharpen quick thinking, with each assessment opportunity you can showcase your abilities.
Engage in online assessments blending technology with information for adaptable problem-solving. Whilst presentations amplify your voice, and scholarly viva-voce discussions deepen understanding. Practical assessments bridge theory with real-world application, helping to shape your subject expertise.
With our varied approach, learning isn’t just about meeting standards—it’s about discovering your potential within an educational landscape.
In addition to tuition fees and accommodation if applicable. Students will need to budget for some extra costs as part of this course, which you will need to pay for yourself.
Below is a link to a list with approximate additional course cost to help with your budgeting.
International Trip Opportunities
Our students get great opportunities for study trips abroad to experience some amazing places such as Borneo, South Africa, Bangkok, Tenerife and even sunny South Wales.
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