Access to HE Diploma (Land Based Studies)

Required qualifications

You will need to have previously achieved GCSE English at Grade A-C (4-9) or equivalent (Level 2 Functional Skills*) and GCSE maths at Grade A-C (4-9) or equivalent (Level 2 Functional Skills*).

If you do not have Level 2 qualifications in maths and English you may be able to study one of these alongside your Access to HE course. This will be discussed as part of the Information, Advice and Guidance process.

*Some Universities will only accept GCSEs to meet their entry requirements. They may also require you to have additional GCSEs at Grade A-C (4-9), including a science for some pathways. All applicants are advised to check entry requirements for their chosen degree programme.

What skills will I develop?

You will study four modules, each of which is broken down into smaller units:

Animal Biology – This module will develop your understanding of the physiology of animals. You will begin at a microscopic level by examining aspects of cell biology, and progress to the relationship between the structure and function of organs and tissues as well as the organisation of the animal body. This will include aspects of dietary systems, respiration, locomotion and reproduction. You will also gain a basic understanding of genetics and inheritance.

Health and Husbandry – This module will help to develop your practical husbandry skills whilst working with a range of different species, including zoo animals and exotics, domestic species and farm livestock. In addition, the unit allows for a close examination of how to maintain the health of captive animals including understanding the biology of common pathogens and diseases, the processes of recognising and monitoring good and ill health, and the role of a first aider in maintaining the health of animals.

Animal Behaviour – This module will develop your understanding of animal behaviour, including the recognition of behaviour patterns and forms of communication. In addition, this module introduces relevant UK laws that impact on animal welfare, aspects of ecology and investigating how animals interact with their natural habitats.

Academic Study Skills – This module is designed to help you develop the study skills required for university including research skills, different methods of presenting work and supports you in applying for university to gain the best outcome.

Careers

The course could lead you to a number of Higher Education routes, such as a HND/Foundation Degree/Degree in:

• Animal Science
• Zoology
• Animal Behaviour
• Wildlife Conservation/Ecology
• Zoo Animal Management
• Animal Management
• Animal Welfare

If you are looking to go into a career in animal behaviour, welfare, zoo management or wildlife conservation, then the Access to HE course is a great way to start that journey and #CreateYourCareer.

Work experience

Work experience is not an expectation of this programme.

English and maths

It is expected that you will already have achieved maths and English Language at GCSE grade 4/C (or equivalent).

Other important information

You will typically spend three days per week in college and additional coursework will be completed in your spare time. You will need to purchase practical PPE, including a set of overalls and steel toe cap work boots. Please note that all facial piercings and jewellery will need to be removed when working on the animal unit.