Professional Certificate in Reptile Zoology

Module 1: Zoo Keeping

1. The Nature and Scope of Zoos 
2. Occupational Health and Safety in Zoos 
3. Captive Husbandry -Nutrition and Feeding 
4. Captive Husbandry – Health 
5. Captive Husbandry –Reproduction and Captive Breeding
6. Captive Husbandry -Behaviour
7. Human-Animal Interactions 
8. Enclosure Design and Maintenance 
9. Research Project – Environmental Enrichment

A thorough and comprehensive introduction to working with animals in captivity, such as zoos, safari parks or wildlife sanctuaries, will help you gain the knowledge and skills you need to start your career in captive animal management. Learn about the zookeeping industry from current zoology experts, from the basics of how a zoo operates and enclose design, to the reproduction, animal health and behaviour within captive husbandry.

Module 2: Herpetology 

1. Introduction to Herpetology 
2. Class Reptilia (Reptiles) 
3. Reptile Biology 
4. Class Amphibia (Amphibians) 
5. Amphibian Biology 
6. Ecology of Reptiles 
7. Ecology of Amphibians 
8. Conservation Issues 
9. Keeping Reptiles and Amphibians 

Herpetology is the study of reptiles and amphibians. In this course, you will learn about reptile and amphibian biology, behaviour and classification. You will gain a greater understanding of relevant conservation issues affecting these fascinating creatures. You will also develop an ability to understand the biological and ecological characteristics of reptiles and amphibians as well as how to care for them and how to keep them at home.

Module 3: Primatology

1. Introduction to Primates 
2. The Strepsirhines 
3. The Haplorhines 
4. Primate Diet and Nutrition
5. Primate Health and Physical Condition
6. Primate Behaviour in Nature
7. Primate Behaviours in Captivity 
8. Primate Breeding
9. Managing Primates in Captivity
10. Primate Conservation

You'll learn everything you need to know about primates, their nature, physiology, taxonomy, evolution, diet and nutrition, particularly in a nature park environment and explore their health challenges. You’ll also learn about their behaviour in the wild, their psychological wellbeing in captivity and the essentials of breeding programs and conservation efforts for individual breeds. Managing primates in captivity is also a key component, providing practical knowledge for those working in zoological settings.

Module 4: Vertebrate Zoology

1. Vertebrate Taxonomy and Diversity
2. Fishes: Fish Diversity 
3. Ectotherms –Amphibians and Reptiles 
4. Birds 
5. Overview of Mammals
6. Marsupials Taxonomy
7. Mammalian Glires and Insectivora 
8. Carnivores 
9. Hoofed Mammals (Ungulata) 
10. Primates and other Archonta
11. Research Project 

This module delves into the fascinating world of vertebrate zoology, offering a comprehensive overview of vertebrate taxonomy and diversity. You will explore the rich variety of fishes, the unique characteristics of ectotherms such as amphibians and reptiles, and the intriguing world of birds. The module also covers an extensive range of mammals, from marsupials and the small yet diverse groups of Glires (rodents and lagomorphs) and Insectivora, to the complex behaviors of carnivores and the adaptive strategies of hoofed mammals (Ungulata), with a special focus on primates and other Archonta. A research project component allows you to apply your knowledge, exploring a specific area of interest within vertebrate zoology in depth. Through this module, you'll gain a deep understanding of the physiological and ecological aspects of vertebrates, preparing you for advanced studies or careers in zoological, conservation, or environmental fields.

Module 5: Animal Welfare

1. Scope and Nature of Animal Welfare
2. Psychology and Sentience
3. Managing Animal Welfare
4. Animal Protection Services
5. Animal Rescue Services
6. Animal Health Services
7. Animal Welfare for Pets, Work Animals and Animals in Sport
8. Animal Welfare for Farm Animals
9. Animal Welfare for Wildlife: Free and Captive

Gain a thorough understanding of how to manage animal welfare effectively, covering topics such as animal protection services, animal rescue and health services. This module also extends to exploring animal welfare considerations across various contexts, including pets, work animals, animals in sport, farm animals and wildlife in both free and captive environments. This module equips you with the knowledge to recognize and address welfare needs across a diverse range of animal populations, ensuring informed decisions and actions in the field of animal care and welfare.