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Zoo Keeping
Zoo Keeping 600 Hours Diploma
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Learn About Zoo Keeping
Zoo Keeping Online Course
This home study Zoo Keeping Online Course will provide you with flexible learning experiences that will help start you on your way to a career in zoos and safari parks.
Study the Diploma in Zoo Keeping by distance learning.
As a Zoo Keeper, you will probably work with one breed of animal, or species of animals such as primates or reptiles. Possible zoo keeping jobs include working in:
- Small and large zoos and safari parks
- Privately and charitably run establishments
- Sea Zoos and Aquariums
Although apprenticeships may be available, where you start off at the bottom and work your way up, zoos will often ask that you have hands on experience in working with animals, possibly as a volunteer in a safari park, zoo or animal shelter. They may also require you to have A levels or their equivalent in animal care and/or animal science disciplines. Zoo keeper salaries range from around £12,000 to £25,000 a year, for a 37 – 40 hour week, spread over 7 days and probably spanning 365 days of the year.
As a qualified Zoo keeper, you may have to undertake the following tasks on a daily basis:
- The preparation of food, plus the feeding of your assigned animal
- Maintaining cleanliness of the pen or cage and checking for any damage or wear and tear
- Changing bedding
- Ensuring that the animals’s enclosure is as near to it’s natural living conditions as it can be
- Making sure that the animal looks well and is disease free
- Caring for the animal when it is sick
- Ensuring that the cage or pen is at the right temperature and correct humidity
- Maintaining written and/or computerised records where necessary
- Giving talks to zoo visitors
Course Information
Other Categories
Lessons
Lesson Structure: Diploma in Zoo Keeping VEN022
There are 3 Compulsory Modules:
- An excellent vocational pathway towards employment in the Veterinary industry. Learn to care for the health of any type of animal and understand the scope of services offered by animal care services, including veterinary practices. This course is appropriate for anyone interested in working with animals on a farm, a wildlife park or a veterinary practice. More….
- What makes animals tick? Learn through this Home Study Animal Behaviour course. Understanding your Animals’ (pets) Behaviour is the key to a happy relationship. Do they think and learn like humans? How do they adapt to their environment? Which animals have the best social life?! Learn all this and more when you study the psychology behind animal behaviour. More….
- Do you want to make sure that animals in zoological parks are healthy and happy? This course is a terrific introduction to working in zoos, safari parks, aquariums or fauna sanctuaries. You will cover many aspects of zoo work such as: Animal Welfare, Animal Care, Diet and Nutrition, Enrichment – Environmental and Feeding, Captive Breeding, Optimum Enclosure Design ,Research and Conservation and Educating the Public. More….
Now choose 3 of the Elective Modules below:
1 Animal Anatomy And Physiology (Animal Husbandry I ) BAG101
- Gain a thorough foundation knowledge of animal anatomy and physiology. This is essential for careers requiring good animal care and management. An excellent starting point for working with animals in any situation (farms, pets, zoos, wildlife, animal protection). Learn at your own pace through distance learning. More….
- Become a brilliant breeder! Learn to plan an animal breeding program, incorporating genetic theory, breeding program management and practical aspects of daily husbandry practice. This online course is relevant to all animals, from pets to farm animals and horses to wildlife. You will receive personal guidance from high qualified and experienced scientists and practitioners. More….
3 Animal Feed & Nutrition (Animal Husbandry III) BAG202
- This Online – Distance Learning course will teach you about the components needed in animal diets and the composition of a range of feeds (including pasture, fodder crops, grasses, cereals, seed and other edible plants). You will learn to evaluate feeding, select appropriate feeds (for nutritional content and digestability), and apply this to farming and captive animal situations. More….
4 Aviculture (Bird Keeping) BAG108
- With the knowledge you gain from completing this course, you will be well equipped with all the skills required to be a confident and competent Bird Keeper. Whether you just want to learn how to look after your own feathered friend (or friends) better, or want to forge a bird-related career, it is important to know how to choose the right birds that suit your individual needs, or those of a customer and how to look after them properly. More….
- Whether you choose to have a saltwater tank or a freshwater tank, you will need to take care and protect aquariums systems and equipment. This course is an excellent option for both small and big aquariums and for the amateur or the professional. Learn to manage an aquarium: Freshwater or salt, Small or large, Home, hobby or commercial applications, conservation or any other purpose. More….
- In this excellent online distance learning course in Carnivore Zoology, designed by professional carnivore experts and delivered by experienced and qualified tutors in the subject, you will learn about: Taxonomy and Evolution, Carnivore Biology, Carnivore Behaviour, Canines, Felines, Bears, Aquatic Carnivores, Mustelids and other carnivores. More….
7 Diagnosing Animal Diseases BAG219
- This course is developed to assist animal owners to decide when symptoms could indicate a serious condition, and therefore warrant calling a vet. The course will help you to recognise a disease and determine an appropriate course of action to initiate in order to obtain a diagnosis. More….
- Learn how to develop your ability to understand the biological and ecological characteristics of reptiles and amphibians. This course also covers conservation issues as well as learning how to look after them in the right manner, so that they live long and happy lives. More….
- Understand key aspects of marine environments! Build a knowledge of marine life and ecology, whether for work or general interest. The first two lessons deal with marine environments (weather, nutrient cycle, reefs, shallow and deep water environments, etc). Lessons 3 to 8 deal mostly with marine animals, particularly more complex animals, and the last lesson considers human impacts upon marine environments. More….
10 Primatology
- Learn about the taxonomy, biology and management of primate animals both in captivity and the wild. You’ll learn all about the differences between species of primates and the characteristics of each. In addition this course also explains the nutritional, physical and psychological needs for keeping primates healthy in captivity and the wild. learn how to manage and breed primates in captivity and learning about conversation of primates in the wild. More….
- This course provides an opportunity to learn from industry professionals, while exploring the fundamental principles of vertebrate zoology. It will give you a thorough understanding of “higher” animals’ Zoology, Taxonomy and Biology, together with some principles on animal ecology and morphology. You will learn the essentials of Vertebrate Zoology, giving you a solid foundation to understand animals. More….
- This Wildlife Management online distance learning course is a must course for anyone who wishes to work to conserve wildlife whether it’s in the wild, in zoos or working with breeding programs. Wildlife management is the manipulation of wild animal populations and their habitats for the benefit of both humans and wildlife. Wildlife management includes running parks and reserves, altering and rehabilitating wildlife habitats, pest control, protecting human life and property and managing harvests of wildlife. More….
Note: each module in the Diploma in Zoo Keeping is a Certificate in its own right, and may be studied separately.
Learning Goals
As a qualified Zoo keeper, you may have to undertake the following tasks on a daily basis:
- The preparation of food, plus the feeding of your assigned animal
- Maintaining cleanliness of the pen or cage and checking for any damage or wear and tear
- Changing bedding
- Ensuring that the animals’s enclosure is as near to it’s natural living conditions as it can be
- Making sure that the animal looks well and is disease free
- Caring for the animal when it is sick
- Ensuring that the cage or pen is at the right temperature and correct humidity
- Maintaining written and/or computerised records where necessary
- Giving talks to zoo visitors
Practical (Set Tasks)
Examinations
Program Summary
More Information
Currently we have the Primate Naturalist: Karin Saks, studying our Primatology course, one of the elective modules in the Diploma. Karin has been fostering and rehabilitating orphan baboons, caring for injured monkeys returned to the wild, plus promoting a harmonious co-existence between primates and humans since 1997. She also founded The Darwin Primate Group as a non-profit organisation in 2008 and in 2014, moved to Kwazulu Natal to research the endangered samango monkey populations in the Midlands.
Gain all important hands-on experience with wildlife animals, to add to your CV whilst you are studying your Zoo Keeping Diploma with ADL, or after completing it. We are very happy to be associated with GVE, which offers an unforgettable volunteer experience in South Africa with their Game Capture and Vet Experience programs.
The program fee charged for the experience also acts as the main support for GVE’s non-profit clinic.
Interested in reading more information about both the Game Capture and Vet Experience programs? Then just click on the GVE logo below
Assessment
Assessment is based on a combination of completing all assignments and sitting for a final short one and a half hour exam, in your own location.
If you don’t cope well with exams then you may elect to undertake a project instead. This is a popular option.
In addition, most modules have a Set Task at the end of each lesson placed before the assignment. This is an opportunity to undertake practical work to help you acquire knowledge and skills and practical experience. This ADL feature is an added bonus not found at most online schools. Set Tasks are not required for assessment.
Some courses also have optional Self-Tests which are available on our online learning platform. These are not available by correspondence or by USB, and do not form part of your overall grade.
How our courses work
- Choose Your Learning Method
You choose how you would like to receive your course material, i.e., Online, USB or Correspondence. The choice is yours. You may also work on online or offline. - Tutor Allocation
Every student is assigned their own dedicated tutor who is an expert in their subject area. They provide as much or as little individual contact as you require. You can contact your tutor whenever you need – your hours are not limited. - Feedback and Assignments
Tutor Feedback is an essential component in helping you understand the subject matter. Tutor feedback is given in the form of notes written on the assignment. We encourage you to contact your Tutor where help with clarification and understanding of course material may be required.
Your assignments are located at the end of each lesson. You submit them for marking whenever you are ready. There is no time limit. - Set Tasks and Self-Tests
Most modules have a Set Task at the end of each lesson before for the assignment. This is where you get the opportunity to undertake practical work to help you acquire knowledge, skills and practical experience. Many modules also have short Self-Tests. - Exams
Once all assignments have been completed you may then elect to sit for a one and half hour exam in your own location. If you prefer not to take the exam you do have the option to undertake a project instead.
Once the exam or project part of the course is completed, your Certificate is then processed. Please allow approximately 4 weeks for this. - Design Your Own Qualification
ADL offers students the flexibility to self-design their own qualification – bundling together a combination of 100-hour modules into a qualification higher than a certificate.
FAQ
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Here is a list of the most often asked FAQ’s.
General
Q. Why should I enrol with the Academy for Distance Learning?
A. Here at ADL, our students are our priority – we treat everyone as a unique individual.
Q. Do I need to buy text books?
A. No, as each module has been written by highly qualified industry professionals. The content of the material is presented in such a way that text books are not required. However, if you require additional reading your tutor will be able to supply a list.
Q. What happens if I have to stop studying for a while? (eg. become sick, go on holidays, have a baby, move house, etc)
A. It’s OK to take a break and start up your study at a later point in time. Just let us know.
Q. Is there an age limit?
A. There is no maximum age limit. We do however, have a minimum age limit of 18 years. Below that age parental consent would be required.
Q. Are your courses up-to date?
A. Our courses are revised and updated on a rotation system.
Q. Do you have a Cancellation policy?
A. Yes. We have a cancellation policy that is fair and equitable. For further details please click here.
Q. Will I have any opportunity to engage with other students?
A. We have a Student Community group based on facebook! If you don’t have a facebook account already, you could make one just for talking with fellow students on the group.
Enrolment
Q. When can I enrol/start?
A. You may enrol and start at any time of the year – it’s all self- paced.
Q. Can I study from anywhere in the world?
A. Our courses are available to anyone, anywhere in the world from the comfort of your own home. The course content is relevant to any country, culture or economy.
Q. How long do I have to complete the course?
A. You complete the course at any time that is convenient for you.
Q. Completing a 100 hour module – how long will it take?
A. For some students a 100 hour module will take approximately to 3- 6 months to complete. Others take less time and some even longer.
Assessment
Q. Assessment – how does it work?
A. For each 100 hour module you are assessed by assignments (at the end of each lesson) and a final one and a half hour exam (or you may elect to complete a Project, instead of sitting the exam) – the choice is yours – you sit for the exam in your own location.
Q. I don’t cope well with exams – what can I do?
A. You may elect to undertake a Project (set by your tutor) instead of sitting the exam. Projects are completed from your home and can usually take a couple of weeks to complete.
Q. If my assignment is not up to standard is there an opportunity to resubmit my work?
A. Yes –
Q. How many assignments do I need to complete for each module?
A. At the end of each lesson, there is an assignment – so if a course has say, 10 lessons, there would be 10 assignments.
Q. I am having difficulty attending workshops/industry meetings, what can be done?
A. If your course requires attendance at workshops, conferences, or industry meetings; alternative arrangements can be made in your country.
Qualifications
Q. What qualification will I receive?
A. For individual modules, you would be awarded a Certificate endorsed by TQUK (Training Qualifications, UK), providing you complete all assignments and the exam. If you just want to complete only the assignments and not sit for the exam or finish a Project, then a Letter of Achievement would be awarded. For more details on qualifications available please click here.
Q. Can I customize my diploma/higher qualification?
A. Not all educational institution’s certificates /diplomas meet everyone’s needs. The opportunity to Design Your Own Diploma at the Academy (subject to our approval) is an added bonus, not found at other colleges. You choose modules that you think will help you in achieving your goal.
Q. What do I get when I complete the course? Will I receive a transcript?
A. At the completion of all courses and providing all assignments and exam requirements have been met, you will receive your Award and a Transcript.
Tutors
Q. Our tutors – who are they?
A. We appoint Tutors and require that they must be currently active in their industry, with at least 5 years’ experience in their chosen profession.
Q. Can I contact my tutor at any time?
A. Yes – you have unlimited access to your tutor via email through our Online Classroom. You can always leave a message with ADL requesting your tutor to contact you. You decide on how much or how little contact you wish to have.
Q. Practical work – How is this done?
A. To find out more about this part of the course please visit the section on How Our Courses Work here.
Career Options
Possible zoo keeping jobs include working in:
- Small and large zoos and safari parks
- Privately and charitably run establishments
- Sea Zoos and Aquariums
What's Included
What your tuition fees include
- All Course Material via Online, USB or Correspondence
- Assignments Marked
- Professional Tutor Feedback
- Set Tasks - Practical Exercises to help you develop skills
- Self-Tests – multiple choice questions at the end of lessons in most modules
- Unlimited Personal Tutor Support – via our student classroom
- Committed and Friendly Admin Support – vital to your success
- All ADL Exam or Project fees (exception RHS exams)
- Qualification Certificate
- Official Transcript with assignment grades
- Student Manual
Plus FREE
- Academic Writing course (optional - 10 hours only)
- Critical Thinking course (optional - 10 hours only)
- Job Seekers Careers Guide
- Study Tips on How To Study Better
- Career Counselling by ADL Staff
- CV Writing Help, Tips and Advice
There are no hidden extras
Career Opportunities
FAQ - RHS Theory Qualifications
GENERAL
If you require further details about any of the RHS industry recognised qualifications please, call one of our friendly RHS Course Advisors on +44 (0)1227 789 649 or email: [email protected]
Q: When can I Enrol/Start My RHS Course With ADL?
A: Anytime, Anywhere. There are no enrolment deadlines.
Q: I live Overseas. Can I Study From Overseas?
A: You can study any of the RHS theory qualifications overseas. All courses are offered in English. You will need to email RHS Qualifications direct to arrange sitting for your examination overseas.
Q: Is There a Time Limit for Completing an RHS Qualification?
A: At present there are no time limits. However, RHS is contemplating in the future, the introduction of course time-lines.
Q: Are There Any Entry Requirements (Pre-Requisites)?
A: The RHS Theory courses do not require prerequisites, previous experience or any knowledge of horticulture. You just need passion for all things horticulture.
Q: What Course Should I Start With First? I Am New To RHS Qualifications.
A: We highly recommend that you start with Level 2 – Principles of Garden Planning, Establishment and Maintenance.
Q: What Does ADL Course Material Include?
A: Includes Power Point Presentations, Videos and written course lessons.
RHS EXAMS
Q: When Do Exams Take Place?
A: Exams are held on fixed dates in February and June of each year. You should register as a candidate at least 3 months before these dates, so please do not leave exam registration to the last minute
Q: Where Do I Take My Exams?
A: UK: You take the exams at the RHS Wisley Centre, located between Cobham and Ripley in Surrey or at other authorised RHS centres around the UK.
Overseas: please email RHS qualifications direct for centre information.
Q: Exam Pass Marks?
A: Module – pass 50%. Commendation 70%.
Qualification: 50% pass for all modules.
Commendation awarded for all modules.
Each question carries a value of 10 marks.
Q: I’m Not Happy With My Exam Results?
A: You have the opportunity to re-sit your exam at the next opportunity.
There are no restrictions on the number of re-sits you can take. The highest mark you achieve will remain.,