experts - sparsholt college...facilities animal management centre – 1,200 animals from 200 species...
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Excellent course. Enthusiastic, inspiring and helpful lecturers with useful and relevant industry contacts.”
WELCOMEWe look forward to welcoming you to University
Centre Sparsholt – where you can learn from
recognised experts in their field. Our degrees open
doors to your career! Not only will you achieve a
highly credible degree validated by the University
of Portsmouth you will gain essential industry skills
valued by employers. Our alumni have become
the movers and shakers in the specialist sectors
we serve, putting Sparsholt graduates at the
head of the pack when it comes to placement
opportunities and jobs.
We are also growing our Master’s programmes to
enable those with a strong academic and research
focus to seamlessly extend their knowledge –
becoming the experts of the future.
of graduates progressed to
employment or further study
DLHE 2015
Tim Jackson, Principal
CONTENTSA Campus in the Countryside 06
Student Life 08
Which Degree? 10
Your Study Programme 12
Student Accommodation 13
How To Apply 15
Courses 16
Access to Higher Education (Land-based Studies) 16
Animal Management and Zoo Biology 18
Equestrian Science and Performance Management 38
Fisheries, Aquaculture and Marine Studies 54
Horticulture 70
Wildlife Ecology and Conservation 82
Veterinary Nursing Science 18
Finance and Fees 94
Financial Support 95
Map and Transport Links 96
Index 98
EMPLOYMENTOur recent graduates have secured the following jobs, to name a few:
• Registered Veterinary Nurse
• Marketing Manager
• Invertebrate Project Survey
Officer
• Fish Farm Technical Officer
• Landscape Designer
• Aquaculturist
• Groom
• Property Manager
• Angling Guide
• Ecological Consultant
• Forestry Commission Ranger
• Volunteer Coordinator
(habitat management)
• Agri-environment Consultant
• Garden Design CAD
Technician
• Press Officer (Zoo)
• Dog Trainer
INDUSTRY
TO YOUR CAREER
FACILITIES
Animal Management Centre – 1,200 animals from 200 species
Aquatic Research and Conservation Centre
Park Herd of Sika Deer
Chalk Stream Lake with Reed Bed
RHS Chelsea Garden Design Tunnel
BBC Radio 4’s Gardeners’ Question Time “Potting Shed”
Salmonid Rearing and Trials Centre
BHS Approved Equine Centre
Dedicated Veterinary Nursing Centre
Plant Heritage National Collection of Apples
Aquatic Research & Conservation Centre
• Unique teaching facility in the UK
• 650m2 fish house
• Fish stock – carp, catfish, tilapia
• Extensive ornamental fish species
• Koi pool
• Marine habitats replicating global ecosystems
Equine Centre
• 60m x 23m indoor arena
• Three outdoor arenas
• Paddocks, gallops and jumping areas
• Cross country training field
• Stabling for 75 horses
• Horse walker and weighbridge
MJ’s bar and restaurant
Shop & café/
restaurant
Veterinary Nursing Centre
• Real-world veterinary practice
• Realistic work setting
• RCVS-accredited programme
Student Accommodation
Westley Court Conference
Centre
Salmonid Rearing & Trials Centre
• Specialist chalk stream breeding centre
• Commercial salmonid production
• Feed trials with large European manufacturers
• Trout production for restocking rivers and table
CAMPUS COUNTRYSIDE
Sports Centre
06 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
Student Accommodation
Animal Management Centre
• Licensed Zoo
• 1,200 animals/200 species
• Small and large mammals
• Exotic and native birds
• Herptile centre
• Exotic species
Horticulture Department
• BBC Radio 4’s Gardeners’ Question Time Potting Shed
• Five hectares of mixed horticultural land
• National Apple Collection (Plant Heritage)
• RHS Chelsea Garden Design Tunnel
• Tropical Glasshouses
• Ornamental Gardens
• Garden Design Studios
Learning Resource Centre (Library)
• Computer suites
• Extensive on and offline resources
• Student printing
• Study supportMain Science
Laboratories and Teaching Centre
HE Study Centre
SPARSHOLT.AC.UK 01962 776441 07
STUDENT LIFE
Set in 400 acres of beautiful Hampshire countryside, only three miles from Winchester and a short drive to the beach, at Sparsholt you can combine the buzz and social life of the city, with the peace and tranquility of the countryside and coastline.
Winchester is a beautiful historic city
renowned for its café culture, a bustling
city centre, stunning cathedral and an
array of award-winning restaurants, as
well as numerous bars and pubs.
Have access to the incredible
sports facilities on campus at
Sparsholt and UoW.
08 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
Live on campus at
the University of
Winchester (UoW)
and get the
whole university
experience.
When you want to
get down to work you
can make the most
of the library facilities
and resources at
Sparsholt and UoW.
Enjoy the Student
Union at UoW
and join in all the
entertainment, clubs
and societies on offer.
09 SPARSHOLT.AC.UK 01962 776441
DEGREE?
Level
Level
Level
Level
FdSc (FOUNDATION DEGREE)
This is a Level 5 stand-alone qualification delivered in two years full-
time or three years part-time. The FdSc can be topped-up to a full
BSc (Hons) degree with an additional year of study. All courses include
work experience.
BSc (HONS) DEGREE (ONE YEAR TOP-UP)
These are one-year programmes which allow you to top–up your
FdSc or HND to a full degree. Most can be studied full-time, with
some also offered as a part-time or distance learning option.
BSc (HONS) DEGREE
This is a Level 6 qualification designed to develop higher-level skills to
be successful in a professional career such as management, research
and academia.
MASTER’S DEGREE
These are postgraduate Level 7 qualifications which follow on from
a full degree. Programmes last one year full-time or two years
part-time and include taught and research components (thesis).
10 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
VALIDATED BY THE UNIVERSITY OF PORTSMOUTH
Our degrees are validated by the University
of Portsmouth which is ranked in the top
150 young universities in the world, in the
Guardian’s top 50 and is one of the top ten
modern universities in the UK (Times Higher
Education’s ‘150 under 50’, Guardian University
Guide, The Times and Sunday Times Good
University Guide 2016)
QUALITY ASSURANCE AGENCY FOR HIGHER EDUCATION REVIEW (MARCH 2014)
At the most recent QAA Higher Education
Review (March 2014), Sparsholt College was
found to have met all expectations for a higher
education provider in the UK. See the full report
on the QAA website www.qaa.ac.uk
11 SPARSHOLT.AC.UK 01962 776441
STUDY PROGRAMMEYour learning experience at Sparsholt is completely personalised and we provide all the guidance and support you need. You will find our lecturers very accessible when you need additional help and your personal tutor will also provide ongoing support and direction.
PERSONAL TUTORSYou will have regular tutorials
with your personal tutor, to
discuss your progress and get
help and support when needed.
CAREERS GUIDANCEFull and part-time vacancies are
posted on the student intranet
and careers advice is available.
Course tutors also provide
information and contacts in
industry.
STUDY SUPPORT For students with physical or sensory impairments, health issues or
specific learning difficulties such as dyslexia, dyspraxia and Asperger’s
syndrome there is support available through the Disabled Students’
Allowance (DSA), after completion of an assessment of needs. Please
contact [email protected] for guidance on
obtaining an assessment.
STUDENT SUPPORTHelp is on hand with housing,
relationships, finance, travel and
health, with a dedicated help
desk open all day throughout
term time.
COUNSELLINGFor more in-depth support our
counsellors provide confidential
one-to-one sessions that you
can book directly.
12 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTSOur campus is just one hour from Heathrow
Airport by car and one hour from central London
by train; giving you the best of both worlds in a
safe and welcoming environment.
The International Office will provide you with
advice, guidance and support from first contact,
to helping you with your application, through to
settling in to life and study at the College. Visit
www.sparsholt.ac.uk/international
STUDENT ACCOMMODATION You can live on campus at Sparsholt or in the Halls
of Residence at Winchester University, just a short
drive or bus ride away.
SPARSHOLT CAMPUS ACCOMMODATIONLiving on campus at Sparsholt you will experience
a more rural community with a fully equipped
Sports Centre, restaurant, bar, café and library. The
nightlife of Winchester is just a short drive away.
UNIVERSITY OF WINCHESTER ACCOMMODATIONThis accommodation gives you a city university
experience with easy access to shopping and
leisure facilities in the city, plus the Student Union
and sports facilities in the University Centre
including:
• Restaurants and cafés
• Student Union bar
• Student Union clubs and societies
• Library including book loans and photocopying
A regular bus service runs between Winchester
and the Sparsholt campus.
See page 94 for information about fees.
MATURE STUDENTSSparsholt offers a welcoming and supportive
learning environment ideal for mature students.
Financial support is available in some cases. Please
see page 95 for more information.
We also offer an Access to HE programme which
provides a preparation pathway to degree level
studies for those without the pre-requisite entry
requirements.
13 SPARSHOLT.AC.UK 01962 776441
I thought the course was exceptional and the lecturers definitely provided the main advantage with their vast experience and wealth of industry contacts.”
14 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
APPLY
FULL-TIME UNDERGRADUATE
COURSES
FdSc | BSc | BSc Top Ups
PART-TIME
FdSc | BSc
ALL POSTGRADUATE
COURSES
MSc
Once your application has been reviewed
and a conditional or unconditional offer is
made you will be invited to an offer holders’
day in April to get a real feel for Sparsholt.
There will be a series of guest lectures in
your subject area and a chance to take part
in a practical session. Tutors and Student
Advisers will be on hand to answer questions
about the courses and studying at Sparsholt.
Once your application has been reviewed
and a conditional or unconditional offer is
made you will also be invited to the offer
holders’ day in April.
STUDENT FINANCE
England - www.gov.uk/student-finance
Scotland – www.saas.gov.uk
Wales – www.studentfinancewales.co.uk
Northern Ireland – www.studentfinanceni.co.uk
EU – www.gov.uk/apply-for-student-finance
Apply through UCAS online at
www.ucas.com | Institution Code - S34Apply directly to Sparsholt at www.sparsholt.ac.uk or by
using the form inside this guide
International students – please visit our website for details of how to apply.
15 SPARSHOLT.AC.UK 01962 776441
This one-year course prepares adult learners who want to study at degree level but do not currently have the qualifications to apply. This course is specifically designed to give you the foundation skills and knowledge for studying a land-based degree.
WHY CHOOSE THIS COURSE?
• Provides a fast-track route to higher education
• Continuous assessment with no end of year
exams
• Gain important GCSE English or maths
alongside this course
• Includes three weeks work placement
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
You will study a range of core subjects including
Science, Academic Skills, Business and a small-
scale research project. Additionally, you will follow
some specialist units in either animal studies,
equine studies, ecology and conservation, fishery
studies or horticulture.
Teaching is delivered through a supportive mix of
taught sessions, seminars, tutorials and practical
lessons, which will help you build your knowledge
and understanding of your chosen specialism,
while gaining the ability to research and present
your ideas as reports and presentations.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
This intensive programme is assessed throughout
the course, without end of year exams.
Assessment will include essays, presentations, class
assessments and reports – all of which will prepare
you for higher education.
WHERE CAN I GO FROM HERE?
By the end of the course you will be fully prepared
to progress on to a range of FdSc or BSc (Hons)
programmes to take the next step towards your
career goals.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
No formal qualifications are required. Your
application will be considered on individual
merit based upon prior education and
employment history
Most students will progress to a relevant
degree at Sparsholt and you will be
supported by your tutors through the
application process
If you do not hold the GCSE English or
maths grades needed for university entry
you will have the opportunity to study these
alongside the Access programme
Most students are aged 19 or above at the
start of the course, however entry at 18 may
be possible - please contact the College for
more details
I am pleased with the wealth of new knowledge I have already gathered in such a short period of time.”
If you are over 19 you can apply for an
Advanced Learner Loan to cover the cost of
tuition fees – if you go on to complete a full
degree after your Access course then the
loan will be written off.
SPARSHOLT.AC.UK 01962 776441 17
ANIMAL MANAGEMENT,
& VETERINARY NURSING SCIENCE
Animal Management students at Sparsholt benefit from teaching staff with a wealth of experience from their years of working within the animal management industry, some of whom are directly involved with BIAZA research committees/working groups and have links with a wide range of zoos.
Sparsholt has a very strong provision for teaching and training Veterinary Nurses and Assistant Veterinary Nurses. Our teaching staff bring experience and expertise in all areas of animal work including vet nursing, health and welfare work as well as animal training.
University Centre Sparsholt has an unrivalled collection of animals and species in its purpose-built Animal Management Centre and was one of the first colleges in the country to be awarded a zoo licence, offering a wide variety of habitat styles and management systems to maximise student learning potential and experience.
Our industry-standard Veterinary Nursing Centre boasts radiology, consult preparation and theatre rooms and is stocked with all the equipment veterinary nurses use on a daily basis.
COURSES
FdSc Animal Management and Applied Science
–Two years full-time
FdSc Veterinary Nursing Science
–Three years full-time
BSc (Hons) Animal Management
–Three years full-time
–Top-up: one year full-time
BSc (Hons) Applied Animal Behaviour Top-up
–Two years part-time
BSc (Hons) Zoo Biology Top-up
–One year full-time
–Two years distance learning
MSc Applied Zoo Biology –One year full-time
–Two years distance learning
18 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
INDUSTRY
Recognised UK and world leaders in Animal and Zoo Management studies.
A full member of the British and Irish Association
of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA), University Centre
Sparsholt is home to the Animal Management
Centre, one of the largest living collections of any
UK college, which achieved licensed zoo status
in 2006. We are also well known in the European
Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) and
are working with them on an Erasmus+ funded
project to define a competence framework for
zoo keepers. We work constantly to update
our collection of aquatic species and aquatic
ecosystems in parallel with our industry links.
Working with some of the UK’s and the world’s
leading zoos our tutors bring their expertise to your
learning as well as advising research committees,
welfare groups and awarding bodies.
University Centre Sparsholt enjoys strong links
with a range of wildlife, conservation and
commercial organisations, allowing students to
access work placements and carry out industry-
relevant research.
We work with organisations such as: • The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons
(RCVS)
• Leading UK Zoos such as the Zoological Society
of London (London and Whipsnade Zoos),
Bristol Zoo, Chester Zoo, Dudley Zoo, Blackpool
Zoo, Woburn Safari Park and the Aspinall
Foundation (Howletts and Port Lympne Wild
Animal Parks)
• The British and Irish Association of Zoos and
Aquariums (BIAZA)
• Natural England
• The World Pheasant Association
• The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland
• Rare Breeds Survival Trust
• The Living Rainforest
• Association for the Study of Animal
Behaviour (ASAB)
20 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
Hear more from our students at sparsholt.ac.uk
JAKE
BSc (Hons) Animal Management graduate
I trained as a journalist before working as
a news reporter for a press agency. Having
decided that hard-line news journalism
wasn’t quite what I wanted to do I decided
to follow my other passion – nature –
which led to me applying for the Animal
Management degree course at Sparsholt.
Initially my interest was in becoming a
zookeeper, but after completing a work
placement at the BBC Wildlife Magazine I
came to realise that writing is what I love
doing, I just needed to write about the
subject I enjoy rather than reporting on news.
I very much enjoyed the course at Sparsholt.
I was slightly daunted in my first year by how
scientific it was, however by the end, this was
in fact what I enjoyed most about the degree,
learning about the biology of a flamingo or
the intricate behaviour of a chimpanzee. I
would say the biggest advantages of studying
at Sparsholt are the fantastic industry links
the College and its tutors have, as well as the
expert level of tuition on offer.
I am now working as a press officer at ZSL
Whipsnade Zoo. My role is to maximise
media outreach for the zoo and ensure the
zoo maintains a positive reputation in the
public eye.
The dedication, commitment and hard
graft required to excel in the degree course
prepares you well for careers beyond
Sparsholt. The links the College and the
tutors have are invaluable and the knowledge
about animals, conservation and the natural
world I have gathered has proved priceless.
21 SPARSHOLT.AC.UK 01962 776441
FACILITIES
PURPOSE-BUILT ANIMAL MANAGEMENT CENTRE
Licensed zoo with over 1,200 animals from 200 species
Home to a wide variety of bird species; many are part of international breeding programmes
Research room dedicated to specialist husbandry techniques for a variety of critically endangered amphibian species
Outdoor sections include wallaby and mara as well as goats, llamas and alpacas
Exemplary collection of herptiles
Aquatic Research and Conservation Centre
Exotic species such as red panda, meerkats, tenrecs and lemur
INDUSTRY-STANDARD VETERINARY NURSING CENTRE
Replicates a contemporary veterinary practice
Students gain practical experience in a realistic work setting
ON-SITE FARM
Access to working with large farm animals
Includes pig, dairy and lambing units
Successful commercial enterprise
22 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
RESEARCH Students are encouraged to undertake innovative and challenging research projects as part of their degree. Examples of research titles include:
BSc (Hons) ANIMAL MANAGEMENT
• Captive and wild dietary comparisons in black
and white ruffed lemurs (Varecia variegata) –
a study comparing captive diets to research
on wild diets in order to assess suitability,
presented as a poster at the Marwell Nutrition
Seminar Nov 2015
• Factors affecting loggerhead sea turtle hatch
rates in North Carolina – an investigation into
hatch rates and juvenile mortality at key turtle
nesting sites in North Carolina, USA
• Communication strategies in highland streaked
tenrecs – an investigation into ultrasound
communication in a group of captive streaked
tenrecs at Sparsholt College’s Animal
Management Centre
• In-situ mitigation strategies for amphibian
chytridiomycosis using the Montserrat
mountain chicken frogs as a model species
– working alongside the Zoological Society
of London to better understand the factors
affecting the spread of chytrid fungus
FdSc VETERINARY NURSING SCIENCE
• The effect of age on wound healing in bitches
undergoing ovariohysterectomy
• Factors affecting postoperative wound
infection and inflammation in bitch spays and
dog castration
• The effect of warming aids on the recovery
time of canine dental patients
FdSc ANIMAL MANAGEMENT AND APPLIED SCIENCE
• The effect of enrichment on sentry behaviour
in captive meerkats
• Impact of olfactory enrichment on captive
rodents
BSc (Hons) APPLIED ANIMAL BEHAVIOUR TOP-UP
• Effects of rehoming on behaviour in rescue
dogs following adoption
SPARSHOLT.AC.UK 01962 776441 23
• Primatologist with a Doctorate in chimpanzee
social learning and welfare
• Previously senior scientific officer at the RSPCA
• Conference organiser for BIAZA research
committee
• Studied primates at Budongo Forest, Uganda
• Interest in cognition and environmental
enrichment in captive primates and other
animals
• Raises awareness of welfare issues and gave
parliamentary evidence on keeping primates
as pets
• PhD study in the social organisation of captive
wild animals
• Research into the social organisation of giraffe
and flamingos in a zoo environment
• Investigating the group dynamics of the
flamingo flocks at the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust
(WWT) Slimbridge
• Member: IUCN Giraffe & Okapi Specialist
Group; Giraffe Conservation Foundation; IUCN
Flamingo Specialist Group
• Vice-chair of BIAZA research committee;
research liaison officer, BIAZA Bird Working
Group
• Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy
• Specialist areas of interest zoo biology and
herpetology
• Worked in UK zoos Banham and Chester and
overseas in Cameroon
• Member of the BIAZA research committee
and research liaison for the BIAZA reptile and
amphibian working group
• Specialist national assessor for reptile and
amphibian modules on the DMZAA
• BSc (Hons) Veterinary Nursing Science;
registered RCVS Veterinary Nurse
• City & Guilds Certificate Nursing of Exotic
Species, Telford College, Edinburgh
• Qualified clinical coach supporting student
veterinary nurses in practice
• Practical nursing skills include: Schedule 3
procedures and surgical nursing; the nursing of
exotic species; emergency and critical care
Steve Nash MSc, PGCE (PCET), BSc (Hons), Dip Zoo An Man, SFHEA
Paul Rose MSc, PGCLT, ARCS, MIfL, SFHEA
Lisa Riley PhD, MSc, MRes, MSc, BSc (Hons), DTLLS, FHEA
Emma Anscombe-Skirrow BSc (Hons), RVN Cert Ed, FHEA
EXPERTS
24 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
• Principal role running
courses for zoo staff
• BIAZA partnership link
delivering gold standard UK
and Ireland keeper training
course, the Diploma in the
Management of Zoo and
Aquarium Animals (DMZAA)
• Delivering team leadership
and development training to
the major zoos in the UK
• Nutritionist for the Royal
Zoological Society of
Scotland (RZSS)
• BSc (Hons) in Veterinary
Nursing and Practice
Management from Harper
Adams University
• Holds an RCVS Advanced
Diploma in Veterinary
Nursing specialising in
medical and critical care
nursing
• Qualified clinical coach
supporting student veterinary
nurses in practice
• Interests include medical
nursing, emergency and
critical care nursing and the
nursing of senior pets
• MSc in Animal Behaviour,
University of Exeter
• Dissertation research on
impact of environment
enrichment on Rothschild’s
giraffe herd
• BSc (Hons), University
of Wales, Aberystwyth
– researched pre- and
post-roosting aggregation
behaviour of European
starlings
• Supervises third year student
research projects, with
a focus on behaviour or
nutrition
• Research advisor to EAZA’s
Canid and Hyaenid Taxon
Advisory Group
• Worked with wildlife,
qualified as RVN, specialised
in emergency and critical
care
• Gained Cert VN ECC in 2012
• Multi-disciplinary referral
practice work at specialist
oncology hospital
• Interests: medical and
neurological nursing;
intensive care and
anaesthesia
• Actively promotes Veterinary
Nursing as a profession in
the UK
• BSc (Hons) Physiology and
Psychology
• Postgraduate Diploma in
Companion Animal Behaviour
Counselling
• Certified Clinical Animal
Behaviourist
• Owns The Behaviour Clinic
providing behavioural
advice and modification for
companion animals, mainly
dogs
• Full member of Association
of Pet Behaviour Counsellors;
Association of Pet Dog
Trainers
• Lectures on BSc (Hons)
Applied Animal Behaviour
Top-up, encouraging students
to validate their experience
and improve their practice
Andy Beer PGCE, BSc (Hons), FHEA
Jo Bond BSc (Hons), Dip AVN, RVN
Kerry HuntMSc, BSc (Hons), DTLLS, FHEA
Gill HollowayBA (Hons), Cert VN ECC, RVN
Helen JarrattPGDip, BSc (Hons), CCAB
• MRes in Equestrian
Performance from Hartpury/
UWE
• Research into factors
influencing the success of
embryo transfer in horses
• Worked as groom and
foaling assistant at large
racing stud
• Teaches a range of research
and science based modules:
Principles in Biology;
Equine Health and Welfare;
Research Methods and
Analytical Techniques; Data
Analysis
Abigail NewmanMRes, PGCE, BSc (Hons)
SPARSHOLT.AC.UK 01962 776441 25
FdSc ANIMAL
MANAGEMENT APPLIED SCIENCE
Duration Two years full-time
UCAS Code: D329
Tutor: Jo Bond BSc (Hons), Dip AVN, RVN
WHY CHOOSE THIS DEGREE?
• Designed with employers to give the science skills and breadth of
knowledge the industry needs
• Combine research with practical skills, lab work with field work
and put theory into practice
• Benefit from working with expert lecturers and a diverse and
exciting collection of animals
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
The programme’s strong science foundation includes biological
science, biochemistry and vertebrate anatomy and physiology.
Students also enjoy work placements in organisations as diverse as the
Veterinary Laboratories Agency, Heathrow Animal Reception Centre,
organic livestock farms and wildlife conservation trusts.
You will have the opportunity to develop your academic research
through the Level 5 module on applied industrial research, choosing
an area relevant to a specific sector of interest.
Validated by
When I started my Foundation Degree I wasn’t sure about which direction to go in. The degree has opened up a number of career options which has been invaluable.”
26 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
Much of the assessment is
coursework based - essays,
reports, practical portfolios and
seminar presentations. Practical
activities, in-class assessments
and a limited number of exams
also play a part.
WHERE CAN I GO FROM HERE?
You can progress on to the
BSc (Hons) Applied Animal
Behaviour, BSc (Hons) Animal
Management or BSc (Hons) Zoo
Biology Top-up programmes
at Sparsholt or other
organisations.
Sparsholt graduates now work
in zoological collections,
animal charities and veterinary
practices.
UNITS COVERED
Level 4 • Animal Management 1
• Principles of Biology
• Anatomy and Physiology
• Work Practice
• Industry Skills
• Academic Skills
• Analytical Techniques
• Human Animal Interaction
Level 5• Population Biology
• Applied Industrial Research
• Work Practice 2
• Ethology and Ethics
• Animal Health
• Animal Management 2
• Nutrition
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
A Level Two A Level passes,
including one at grade C
or above which should
be in a life science
BTEC Extended DiplomaMMP
City & Guilds Extended DiplomaP + 6 units at Merit or
above to include three
from:
• Chemistry for Biology
Technicians
• Inheritance & Genetics
• Biochemistry &
Microbiology
• Anatomy & Physiology
• Fundamentals of
Science
• Animal Nutrition
• Ecology &
Conservation
• Animal Biology
BTEC DiplomaMM
City & Guilds DiplomaM (including science unit)
Access to HE A satisfactory pass in a
relevant Access course
with 45 credits at Level 3
International BaccalaureateAppropriate IB
Certificates considered
Plus GCSE maths and
English at grade C
or above or Level 2
Functional Skills in maths
and English.
SPARSHOLT.AC.UK 01962 776441 27
Duration Three years full-time
UCAS Code: D311
Tutors: Emma Anscombe-Skirrow BSc (Hons), RVN Cert Ed,
FHEA
Jo Bond BSc (Hons), AVN Dip, RVN
Gill Holloway BA (Hons), Cert VN ECC,
RVN
FdScVETERINARY
NURSING SCIENCE
WHY CHOOSE THIS DEGREE?
• Three year full-time programme includes LANTRA Veterinary
Nursing Occupational Standards
• Combine 52 weeks of work placements with college study to gain
practical skills and underpinning theory
• Gain realistic experience in our purpose built Veterinary Nursing
Centre equipped to represent a contemporary veterinary practice
• Excellent rate of graduate employment
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
The programme has a firm science foundation, including the specialist
nursing, behaviour and research skills needed to develop industry-
relevant knowledge. You will also gain valuable industry insight
through visits, guest speakers and work placements.
You will learn through a combination of lectures, laboratory
sessions, practical work in veterinary practice along with guided and
independent work. You will have the opportunity (subject to demand)
to participate in animal training and behaviour, large animal handling
and a dangerous wild animal handling certificated course.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
Assessment is through a combination of coursework - including
laboratory investigations, assignments and presentations - and, for
the elements of the Professional Syllabus, closed book examinations.
Whilst on placement you will also complete a Nursing Progress Log to
evidence practical competencies.
Validated by
28 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
WHERE CAN I GO FROM HERE?
After successfully completing
the course and 52 week
work placement, you can
register as a Veterinary Nurse
(subject to ‘fitness to practice’
in accordance with RCVS
guidelines). You could also
continue study on the final
year of a relevant BSc (Hons)
programme such as the BSc
(Hons) Animal Management,
BSc (Hons) Applied Animal
Behaviour or BSc (Hons) Zoo
Biology Top-ups offered at
Sparsholt.
Sparsholt graduates are
employed in small animal
practice, equine practice and
referral hospitals, and have
the skills needed to work in
research, the pharmaceutical
industry, laboratories, zoological
or wildlife parks and in
education.
UNITS COVERED
Level 4• Functional Anatomy
• Analytical and Diagnostic
Techniques
• Animal Husbandry,
Inheritance and Disease
• Practice Organisation and
Personal Development
Planning
• Principles of Veterinary
Nursing
• Veterinary Nursing Work
Practice
Level 5• Surgical Theatre Practice and
Anaesthesia
• Applied Industrial Research
• Diagnostic Imaging
• Application of Veterinary
Nursing Care
• Pharmacology
• Animal Behaviour
• Recent Advances in Animal
Health
• Veterinary Nursing Work
Practice
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
A Level Three A Level passes
including two at grade C
or above; one should be
in a life science
BTEC Extended DiplomaDMM
City & Guilds Extended DiplomaM + 6 units at Distinction
BTEC DiplomaN/A
City & Guilds DiplomaN/A
Access to HE A Merit profile in a
relevant Access course
with 45 credits at Level 3
International Baccalaureate25 points with HL Biology
at 5
Plus five GCSEs including
maths, English and
science at grade C
or above or Level 2
equivalents. Two weeks
work experience in a
Veterinary Surgery.
SPARSHOLT.AC.UK 01962 776441 29
Duration Three years full-time One year BSc Top-up also available
UCAS Code: Full-time D320 Top-Up D328
Tutor: Kerry Hunt MSc,
BSc (Hons), DTLLS, FHEA
BSc ANIMAL MANAGEMENT
WHY CHOOSE THIS DEGREE?
• Benefit from a diverse and exciting collection of animals in our
BIAZA-member centre
• Develop strong scientific knowledge in key biological sciences,
biochemistry, vertebrate anatomy and physiology
• Gain robust data analysis and research skills needed for
employment through project work and assessments
• Build vital experience through practical handling skills, extensive
work placements and strong links with industry
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
The programme is designed to combine knowledge and research
techniques in aspects of animal welfare and behaviour, animal
collections management and wildlife management.
Work placements are a key feature and benefit from University Centre
Sparsholt’s strong links with a variety of organisations. Students
often choose to do their work experience overseas. More locally,
students have visited Bristol Zoo Gardens, the New Forest Wildlife
Park, Compassion in World Farming, The Donkey Sanctuary and the
Entomology Department of the Natural History Museum.
Employability is a focus of the final year, with the opportunity to
research, investigate, explore - and then gain experience in - a specific
career area of your choice.
Validated by
30 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
Assessment at Level 4 and
5 is primarily by exams and
coursework which includes
practical portfolios, laboratory
reports, seminars and essays.
Work placements offer
opportunities to gather data for
the dissertation project which is
submitted at Level 6.
There are research
opportunities throughout the
programme and Sparsholt
actively submits student work
to outside symposia, giving you
the opportunity to present your
work to the wider world.
WHERE CAN I GO FROM HERE?
You can progress to the
MSc in Applied Zoo Biology
at Sparsholt; alternatively
there are many MSc and PhD
programmes available at other
universities. Sparsholt graduates
now work in zoological
collections, animal charities and
conservation both in the UK and
overseas.
UNITS COVERED
Each year includes an assessed
work placement unit - or a
period of work placement.
Level 4• Animal Management 1
• Analytical Techniques
• Principles of Biology
• Work Placement
• Academic Skills
• Anatomy and Physiology
Level 5• Population Biology
• Data Analysis 1
• Nutrition
• Ethology and Ethics
• Work Placement
• Animal Management 2
• Personal and Professional
Development
Level 6• Dissertation
• Data Analysis 2
• Applied Animal Behaviour
and Welfare
• Applied Animal Health
• Species Manipulation and
Monitoring
• Professional Industrial
Development
• Animal Industry and Trade
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
A Level Three A Level passes
including two at grade C
or above; one should be
in a life science.
BTEC Extended DiplomaDMM
City & Guilds Extended DiplomaM + 6 units at Distinction
or above to include three
from:
• Chemistry for Biology
Technicians
• Inheritance & Genetics
• Biochemistry &
Microbiology
• Anatomy & Physiology
• Fundamentals of
Science
• Animal Nutrition
• Ecology &
Conservation
• Animal Biology
BTEC DiplomaN/A
City & Guilds DiplomaN/A
Access to HE A Merit profile in a
relevant Access course
with 45 credits at Level 3
International Baccalaureate24 points with HL Biology
at 4
Plus GCSE maths and
English at grade C
or above or Level 2
Functional Skills in maths
and English.
SPARSHOLT.AC.UK 01962 776441 31
Duration Two years part-time via six campus-based block weeks plus online virtual learning environment
Application: Apply directly using the form inside this guide or on our website
Tutor: Lisa Riley PhD, MSc, MRes, MSc,
BSc (Hons), DTLLS, FHEA
BSc APPLIED ANIMAL BEHAVIOUR
WHY CHOOSE THIS DEGREE?
• Gain the knowledge needed to become a Certified Clinical Animal
Behaviourist accredited by The Association for the Study of Animal
Behaviour (ASAB)
• Combine study and work with this flexible, part-time course
• Develop expertise through an extended animal behaviour
dissertation project
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
Focusing on the practical application of animal behaviour science
and theory, this programme studies human and animal psychology
and ethology, as well as considering the anatomical and physiological
control of behaviour, legislation and ethics. Knowledge of the
relationship between humans and animals is explored, including
domestication and welfare.
Through the extended dissertation project you will demonstrate your
subject and research knowledge.
Designed to facilitate your engagement with industry, six campus-
based block weeks include lectures, seminars and practical work, with
other course material delivered online, with regular access to course
and unit tutors.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
You will showcase your knowledge through a combination of written
assignments, case studies, seminar presentations and exams. At Level
6 the dissertation unit will prove your skills within the field of research.
Validated by
32 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
WHERE CAN I GO FROM HERE?
The course represents a rare
opportunity to work towards
the knowledge elements
that are required to become
a Certified Clinical Animal
Behaviourist, accredited by the
Association for the Study of
Animal Behaviour. You can also
continue your studies to MSc
and PhD level.
Sparsholt students have
developed their own businesses
focusing on behavioural
consultations with domestic
species including dogs, cats
and horses, as well as wild
animal and conservation work.
Setting up and running training
schemes, for example puppy
socialisation classes, and
rehoming of rescue animals are
also popular career choices.
UNITS COVERED
Level 6 - Year One • Animal Communication,
Learning and Training
• Ethology Domestication and
Anthrozoology
• Mechanisms of Behaviour
• Ethics Welfare and Law
Level 6 - Year Two • Human Psychology and
Clinical Practice
• Data Analysis and
dissertation
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
HND or Foundation
Degree
Diploma of Higher
Education in a suitable
subject
FdSc Level 5 Veterinary
Nursing
RPL Portfolio - based on
industry experience
SPARSHOLT.AC.UK 01962 776441 33
Duration One year full-time or two years distance learning
UCAS Code: Full-time C300 Distance learning apply directly using the form inside this guide or on our website
Tutor: Steve Nash MSc, PGCE
(PCET), BSc (Hons), Dip
Zoo An Man, SFHEA
BSc ZOO BIOLOGY
WHY CHOOSE THIS DEGREE?
• Benefit from a diverse and exciting collection of animals in our
BIAZA-member centre
• Develop expertise, data analysis and research skills and use them
in your dissertation project
• Be taught by leading industry experts
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
Building on a strong science foundation, the course will take your
knowledge of zoo management to the next level within an industry-
standard environment. You will develop research techniques
in aspects of zoo animal welfare, behaviour and population
management, as well as considering the wider roles of the modern
zoo such as visitor learning.
The course promotes the idea of evidence based husbandry as a
fundamental feature of contemporary zoo biology and combines
practical research skills, husbandry techniques and vital management
skills. There is also a strong data analysis theme to prepare you for and
support you in your dissertation research.
Validated by
34 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
Assessment is primarily
coursework based, comprising
practical portfolios, case
studies, seminars, reports and
essays. This is supplemented in
some units by an exam.
WHERE CAN I GO FROM HERE?
You can progress to the
MSc in Applied Zoo Biology
at Sparsholt; alternatively
there are many MSc and PhD
programmes available at other
universities.
Sparsholt Animal Management
graduates now work in a
variety of roles in the zoo and
conservation sectors, while
others have continued in
education to postgraduate level.
UNITS COVERED
Level 6• Dissertation and data analysis
• Professional Industrial
Development
• Applied Zoo Animal
Behaviour
• Conservation Biology
• Wild Animal Veterinary
Science
• Conservation Education and
Sustainability
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Foundation Science
Degree in Animal
Management, Animal
Science or a related
subject
I chose Sparsholt because it gave me the opportunity to learn about species I wouldn’t have had access to elsewhere.”
SPARSHOLT.AC.UK 01962 776441 35
Duration One year full-time or two years distance learning
Application: Apply directly using the form inside this guide or on our website
Tutor: Steve Nash MSc, PGCE
(PCET), BSc (Hons), Dip
Zoo An Man, SFHEA
MSc ZOO BIOLOGY
WHY CHOOSE THIS DEGREE?
• Taught by industry experts who are research active and have
strong national and international links
• Benefit from a diverse and exciting collection of animals in our
BIAZA-member centre
• Combine work and study with the distance learning option,
supported by a virtual learning environment to enable study off-
site
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
Building on a strong science foundation, the course is designed
to expand your knowledge of zoo animal biology and refine your
research techniques in aspects of zoo animal welfare, behaviour,
population management and the wider roles of the modern zoo such
as visitor learning.
In addition to traditional lectures and seminars, units are delivered
using the practical resources of our Animal Management Centre,
industry-specific software and databases, conference attendance,
guest speakers and off-site visits. Links are encouraged to external
organisations, commercial companies and collaborative research
projects.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
Units are assessed by a mix of coursework, presentations, exams,
case studies and project work. Emphasis is placed on the development
of critical evaluation and research skills with the use of formative
assessments throughout the programme of study.
Validated by
NEWPOSTGRADUATE
LOANS UP TO
£10,000
36 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
WHERE CAN I GO FROM HERE?
Career pathways include zoo
or conservation research,
environmental education or
zoo management. Alternatively
you may choose to study
a doctorate or a career in
lecturing.
UNITS COVERED
Research Project and Research Methods The research project enables
students to undertake a detailed
experimental study in a chosen
area to develop analytical
research skills with the support
of dedicated supervisors.
Evidence-based Husbandry Zoo husbandry has traditionally
relied on inference and
anecdote but the need for
an evidence-based approach
is now well documented.
Practical application of species
biology will be considered and
developed alongside a range
of methods that can be utilised
to evaluate current welfare
and husbandry standards.
Behavioural analysis and
enclosure utilisation studies will
underpin this approach, along
with wider consideration of
health and nutrition.
Contemporary issues in Zoo Biology This unit sets the historical
context of zoos and considers
their evolution. The roles of the
modern zoo are considered
in line with the World Zoo and
Aquarium Conservation Strategy
with future trends identified
and considered. Population
management and conservation
biology are discussed and
applied to modern zoo theory
with the use of industry specific
software (for example ZIMS)
integrated into this delivery.
Visitor Studies and Interpretation Education is arguably the
most important role of the
modern zoo. This unit explores
how visitors engage with and
learn from the numerous
opportunities provided within
the zoo, drawing on the
principles of interpretation,
exhibitry and recreational
learning theory. It explores the
cultural and social context of
the zoo and investigates visitor
motivation and expectations.
Methods of delivering the zoo
message will be considered,
with evaluation of the
effectiveness and impact of
provision a key theme.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
BSc (Hons) in Animal
Management, Animal
Science or a related
subject at 2:2 or above
SPARSHOLT.AC.UK 01962 776441 37
EQUESTRIAN SCIENCE &
Develop your equine skills and specialise in rider and horse performance so valued by industry.
We combine professional teaching in our BHS-approved Equine Centre with cutting-edge teaching resources and expert staff. University Centre Sparsholt’s Equine team are all BHS qualified and bring extensive industry experience, and the centre has hosted equine leaders such as the Australian Paralympic Equestrian Team for their London 2012 pre-Olympic Games training and research by world famous equestrian expert Monty Roberts.
Our staff and students present their research at conferences and events, as well as encouraging industry-relevant student research, for example in conjunction with feed manufacturers.
COURSES
FdSc Equestrian Performance Management
–Two years full-time
BSc (Hons) Equestrian Performance Management
–Three years full-time
–Top-up: one year full-time
BSc (Hons) Equine Science –Three years full-time
–Top-up: one year full-time
MSc Equine Behaviour, Performance and Training
–One year full-time
–Two years part-time
of students say staff are enthusiastic about what they
are teaching
NSS 2016
38 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
We combine the professional teaching environment of our BHS-approved Equine Centre with cutting-edge teaching resources and expert staff.
University Centre Sparsholt’s Equine team are all BHS qualified and have extensive industry experience. The
centre has hosted equine leaders such as the Australian Paralympic Equestrian Team for their London 2012
pre-Olympic Games training and research by world famous equestrian expert Monty Roberts.
Sparsholt’s Equine staff have impressive links throughout the industry, working with organisations such as:
• The British Horse Society (BHS)
• Dodson & Horrell
• British Dressage
• The British Equestrian Federation
• Robinsons
• The Jockey Club
• Newmarket Racecourse
• The National Stud
• Horse & Hound
• The International Society for Equitation Science
• The British Association of Sport and Exercise
Sciences
• The British Society of Animal Science
• British Showjumping
INDUSTRY
40 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
HANA MSc Equine Behaviour, Performance and Training graduate
After having a break from education I returned to Sparsholt to complete a degree in Equine Studies.
After finishing, I went on to complete the MSc in Equine Behaviour, Performance and Training where
I continued to further my knowledge and skills. The lecturing team are second to none and inspire
students to research their field of interest; I was given great opportunities to get involved in three
research projects for the British Equestrian Federation (BEF) and the Advancing Equine Scientific
Excellence (AESE). My time at Sparsholt provided me with the framework to achieve my end goal.
I now work for The Horse Trust with the Knowledge and Skills team. I joined as a Training Officer and
have recently been promoted to Research Officer. As part of my new role I administrate The Horse
Trust’s research grant process and build and maintain relationships with grant recipients to enhance
research outputs for the charity. I am responsible for faecal sampling all the horses and collaborating
alongside the Equine Care Team and vet. I also contribute towards The Horse Trust’s Level 3 Diploma
in Equine Legislation, Welfare and Field skills. Alongside my new role I still continue the fantastic job
of running the one-day training courses, including training Police, Fire and Rescue, and now the new
programme for Highways England. I am extremely proud to work at such a remarkable charity where
training plays a vital role towards the welfare of the horse.
Hear more from our students at sparsholt.ac.uk
41 SPARSHOLT.AC.UK 01962 776441
FACILITIES
ARENAS AND RIDING
60m × 23m indoor arena
Three outdoor arenas, the largest of which measures 70m × 50m with an Andrews Bowen ProWax surface from the London 2012 Olympics
Attractive grass riding and jumping areas
Cross-country training field
SUPERB STABLING
Variety of stable styles housing up to 75 carefully selected horses
DIY livery and summer grazing available for students’ horses
Covered horse walker
Weighbridge
RESOURCES FOR RESEARCH
Full size equine skeleton
Heart rate monitors
ETB Pegasus Gaitsmart System
High speed camera
Fully-equipped laboratories, rein tension meters and Biometrics EMG analysis system
Quintic biomechanical analysis software
42 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
RESEARCH Our staff and students present their industry-relevant research at conferences and events.
A comparison of the abdominal muscle activations in the female adult horse rider during walk, rising and sitting trot, Alice Carter - BSc (Hons) Equine Science Many practitioners claim core stability is imperative
for successful rider performance, however
supporting research is limited. A model for
examining the surface electromyographic (SEMG)
activity of six abdominal muscles during riding was
carried out on five adult female horse riders using
Biometrics Ltd.© equipment and software. The left
and right sides of the rectus abdominus, external
and internal obliques were measured during
walk, rising trot, and sitting trot with and without
stirrups. Significant differences in abdominal
muscle activation were found between gaits
suggesting that the intensity of abdominal muscle
contractions increases through the gaits, and
differences in individual muscle usage during riding
were identified. The rectus abdominus appeared
to be the most intensely and frequently activated
muscle studied throughout the gaits, which was
thought to be due to the muscle’s position and
function during riding.
The effect of breast support on vertical breast displacement across equine simulator gaits, Felicity Goater - MSc Equine Behaviour, Performance and TrainingRecently it has been reported that female horse
riders describe exercise-induced breast pain whilst
horse riding, constituting an important barrier to
participation. Despite previous research in non-
equestrian sports advocating the use of a sports
bra to reduce breast motion and pain in athletes,
research suggests sports bra use in this population
is low. To improve understanding of breast motion
and pain during horse riding, twelve female
horse riders fitted as a UK bra size 32DD or 34DD
performed a 1-minute walk, medium trot (sitting)
and canter on a dressage simulator in three breast
support conditions: (a) no bra, (b) daily bra and (c)
sports bra. Participants rated breast pain after each
support condition. Breast pain was significantly
reduced in a sports bra compared to the daily
bra during the canter and trot. Results from this
study may be used to develop bras specific to
equestrian sports and to educate female riders on
appropriate breast support. Breast pain caused by
wearing inappropriate breast support may prove to
be detrimental to horse-rider interaction, causing
inadvertent cues to be applied to the horse and
warrants further investigation.
Effect of Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) supplementation on equine (Equus caballus) reactivity and physiological response, Georgia Helen Abernethy Palmer - BSc (Hons) Equine ScienceThis study aimed to determine if the physiological
responses of horses could be altered subsequent
to consumption of DHA with Flavonoids, which
is an antioxidant (QLC) that has been proven
to reduce stress and increase cognitive ability
in humans. Prior to DHA supplementation a
random sample of horses underwent a novel
object umbrella test in order to establish their
reactivity. Resting heart rate using a Polar Equine
heart rate monitor, and mean eyeball temperature
at rest were recorded, using a FLIR E4 thermal
imaging camera. At the end of the treatment
period horses were retested for reactivity and
physiological responses during a maze test.
Reactivity scoring reduced significantly after DHA
+ QLC supplementation. This could be of benefit
for owners with highly reactive horses and may
improve trainability or performance within this
population.
44 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
• 20 years as a competition groom
• MSc in Equine Science, currently completing a
PhD at the University of Portsmouth
• BHS Stable Manager and Registered Animal
Scientist
• Specialises in research on the welfare of horses
in varied situations and rider - coach - horse
interactions
• Actively encourages and supports students to
submit their research to conferences - including
the Alltech Equine Science Conference, the
International Society of Equitation Science
Conference and The British Society of Animal
Science Conference
• Current projects include breast biomechanics in
female riders and Dodson & Horrell feed trials
• Gained BSc (Hons) Equine Science in 2005 from
Hartpury/UWE
• Worked as an Equine Veterinary Nurse within
clinical, surgical and on-call roles, gaining an
interest in colic and equine dysautonomia, as
well as lameness and diagnostic modalities
• Specialist areas of interest include equine
nutrition, gastrointestinal and neurological
conditions, veterinary science and rehabilitation
• Joined Sparsholt College in 2008 and has since
gained both PGCE and QTLS
• Industry experience includes working,
producing and grooming in a variety of settings,
including dressage studs and rehabilitation yards
• Competitive rider for many years across all
disciplines, enjoying self-producing horses from
a young age
• Holds a BSc in Equine Management and PGDip
after studying the theoretical side of the MSc
Equine Science degree at Aberystwyth University
• Has over seven years’ experience as an
international event groom as well as being a
BHS qualified instructor and previously running a
business training and competing event horses
• Areas of interest include Equestrian
Performance, Equitation, Husbandry, Coaching
Methods, Equine Business Administration and
Event Management
Lorna CameronMSc, PGCLTHE, PGCE, BA (Hons), BHS SM (Reg’d), QTLS, SFHEA, R. Anim. Sci.
Natalie StonesPGCE, QTLS, BSc (Hons)
Claire O’BrienPGDip, BSc (Hons), BHSAI, AI (DEFRA)
EXPERTS
SPARSHOLT.AC.UK 01962 776441 45 01962 776441 45
Duration: Two years full-time
UCAS Code: D422
Tutor: Natalie Stones PGCE, QTLS, BSc (Hons)
WHY CHOOSE THIS DEGREE?
• Benefit from work experience at all course stages
• Progress to BSc Equestrian Performance Management Top-up at
Sparsholt after successfully completing the course
• Get hands-on with research projects, events and shows as well
as an international study tour
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
This course has been carefully designed to help you build strong
practical skills alongside applied knowledge to maximise your
employability. This practical emphasis is reflected in the course
content, with units in equitation, husbandry and training, while
other units focus on your applied scientific knowledge and business
skills. Using all the resources of our flagship Equine Centre, you
will experience riding, running events and shows and will also
complete assignments and research projects. Research projects
focus on applied industrial research, while external study visits and an
international study tour increase industry exposure. Work placements
throughout the course complete the picture.
FdSc EQUESTRIAN
PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT
The facilities and resources are fantastic and I loved the Top-up and MSc.”
Validated by
46 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
Tutorial support throughout the
study will help you to develop
your skills and knowledge, using
a varied range of assessments;
including case studies, seminars
and investigative reports with a
range of practical sessions.
WHERE CAN I GO FROM HERE?
Many FdSc graduates choose
to join the BSc Top-up
programme. Sparsholt
graduates enjoy a range of
careers in teaching, livery
centres, polo yards, racing and
studs; including competition
rider, groom, riding instructor,
stud worker and racing stable
manager.
UNITS COVERED
Level 4• Equine Anatomy and
Physiology
• The Equine Industry
• Industry Skills
• Work Placement 1
• Equitation and Husbandry
• Principles in Biology
• Academic Skills
Level 5• Equitation and Coaching
• Applied Industry Research
• Nutrition and Dietetics
• Work Placement 2
• Equine Health and Welfare
• Equine Business
Administration
• Breeding and Stud
Management
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
A Level Two A Level passes,
including one at grade C
or above one of which
should be in a science
BTEC Extended DiplomaMMP
City & Guilds Extended DiplomaP + 6 units at Merit or
above
BTEC DiplomaMM
City & Guilds DiplomaM
Access to HE A satisfactory pass in a
relevant Access course
with 45 credits at Level 3
International BaccalaureateAppropriate IB
Certificates considered
Plus GCSE maths and
English at grade C
or above or Level 2
Functional Skills in maths
and English.
01962 776441 47 SPARSHOLT.AC.UK
Duration: Three years full-time One year BSc Top-up also available
UCAS Code: Full-time D322 Top-up D423
Tutor: Claire O’Brien PgDip, BSc (Hons), BHSAI,
AI (DEFRA)
WHY CHOOSE THIS DEGREE?
• Be taught by leading industry experts in outstanding
on-site facilities
• Tailor your learning to your interests and career goals with optional
units and dissertation at Level 6
• Broaden your horizons with an international study tour
• Full-time top-up programme also available
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
The programme is designed to prepare you for a career in the
exciting and demanding equine industry. Using the outstanding
facilities of the BHS-approved Equine Centre, you will develop the
vital skills needed - from riding and husbandry at Level 4 to research
and analysis at Level 6.
You will experience hosting an inter-college event, as well as being
involved in scientific projects and completing work placements. A full
range of off-site visits to studs, sports horse centres and competition
grounds, plus guest speakers in nutrition, physiotherapy and other
subjects give yet more industry insight.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
Tutorial support throughout your programme of study will help
you to develop your skills and knowledge, using a varied range of
assessments, including exams, case studies, seminars, investigative
reports and practical sessions.
Validated by
BSc EQUESTRIAN PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT
48 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
WHERE CAN I GO FROM HERE?
You can progress to further
study on the MSc in Equine
Behaviour, Performance and
Training or another MSc, MRes
or PhD programme. Sparsholt
graduates enjoy a range of
careers in teaching, livery,
welfare, governance and racing;
including BHS welfare officer,
education officer, researcher
and marketing manager.
UNITS COVERED
Level 4• Equine Anatomy and
Physiology
• The Equine Industry
• Academic Skills
• Work Placement 1
• Equitation and Husbandry
• Principles in Biology
• Equine Evolution
Domestication and
Behaviour
Level 5• Equitation and Coaching
• Breeding and Stud
Management
• Equine Health and Welfare
• Equine Business
Administration
• Nutrition and Dietetics
• Research Methods and
Analytical Techniques
• Data Analysis
• Work Placement 2
Level 6• Dissertation
• Equine Biomechanics and
Sports Science
• Equine Therapy and
Rehabilitation
• Strategic Marketing
• Data Analysis 2
• Equine Genetics and
Reproductive Technologies
• Applied Nutrition
• Leisure and Resource
Management
• Professional Industrial
Development
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
A Level Two A Levels at grade
C or above including a
science
BTEC Extended DiplomaDMM
City & Guilds Extended DiplomaM + 6 units at Distinction
BTEC DiplomaN/A
City & Guilds DiplomaN/A
Access to HE A Merit profile in a
relevant Access course
with 45 credits at Level 3
International Baccalaureate24 points with HL
Science at 4
Plus GCSE maths and
English at grade C
or above or Level 2
Functional Skills in maths
and English.
01962 776441 49 SPARSHOLT.AC.UK
Duration: Three years full-time One year BSc Top-up also available
UCAS Code: Full-time D426 Top-up 422D
Tutor: Lorna Cameron MSc, PGCLTHE,
PGCE, BA (Hons),
BHSSM (Reg’d), QTLS,
SFHEA, R. Anim. Sci.
WHY CHOOSE THIS DEGREE?
• Gain the scientific skills and knowledge needed for a career in
scientific support and management of the performance horse
• Be taught by leading industry experts in outstanding
on-site facilities
• Tailor your learning to your interests and career goals with optional
units and dissertation at Level 6
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
The programme is designed to prepare you for a career in scientific
support and management of the performance horse. You will use the
outstanding facilities of the BHS-approved Equine Centre as well as
fully-equipped laboratories to develop the vital skills needed. At Level
6, optional units enable you to choose the study path that suits your
career aims, with equine science subjects such as Applied Nutrition
and Equine Genetics and Reproductive Technologies on offer.
You will complete a one month work placement. A full range of off-
site visits to studs, sports horse centres and veterinary centres, plus
guest speakers in nutrition, physiotherapy, genetics, exercise science
and other subjects give yet more industry insight.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
Tutorial support throughout your programme of study will help
you to develop your skills and knowledge, using a varied range of
assessments, including case studies, seminars, investigative reports
and practical sessions.
BSc EQUINE SCIENCE
Validated by
50 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
WHERE CAN I GO FROM HERE?
You can progress to further
study on the MSc in Equine
Behaviour, Performance and
Training or another MSc, MRes
or PhD programme. Sparsholt
graduates enjoy a range of
careers in teaching, racing, lab
management, equine veterinary
nursing and performance studs.
UNITS COVERED
Level 4• Equine Anatomy and
Physiology
• The Equine Industry
• Academic Skills
• Work Placement
• Equitation and Husbandry
• Principles in Biology
• Equitation and Coaching
Level 5• Equitation and Coaching
• Advanced Equine Anatomy
and Physiology
• Nutrition and Dietetics
• Research Methods and
Analytical Techniques
• Equine Health and Welfare
• Breeding and Stud
Management
• Data Analysis 1
Level 6• Dissertation
• Equine Veterinary Science
• Equine Genetics and
Reproductive Technologies
• Data Analysis 2
• Equine Therapy and
Rehabilitation
• Equine Biomechanics and
Sports Science
• Applied Nutrition
• Professional Industrial
Development
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
A Level Two A Levels at grade
C or above including a
science
BTEC Extended DiplomaDMM
City & Guilds Extended DiplomaM + 6 units at Distinction
BTEC DiplomaDD
City & Guilds DiplomaD
Access to HE A Merit profile in a
relevant Access course
with 45 credits at Level 3
International Baccalaureate24 points with HL
Science at 4
Plus GCSE maths and
English at grade C
or above or Level 2
Functional Skills in maths
and English.
51 01962 776441 SPARSHOLT.AC.UK
Duration: One year full-time or two years part-time
Application: Apply directly using the form inside this guide or on our website
Tutor: Lorna Cameron MSc, PGCLTHE,
PGCE, BA (Hons),
BHSSM (Reg’d), QTLS,
SFHEA, R. Anim. Sci.
WHY CHOOSE THIS DEGREE?
• Excellent facilities, expert teaching, strong links with industry and
small class sizes
• Take your Equine knowledge up a level with this specialist
postgraduate programme
• Develop research expertise relevant to industry using extensive
laboratory, performance analysis and BHS-approved Equine Centre
facilities
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
Master’s level units are delivered by tutors qualified at postgraduate
level, many of whom have a strong British Horse Society (BHS) and
performance horse background, most being research active.
The research project enables you to undertake a detailed experimental
study in a chosen area to develop analytical research skills with the
support of dedicated supervisors. Interpretation and critical evaluation
of current research findings will enable you to further develop links
between the equestrian industry and the equine scientific community.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
Units are assessed by a mix of coursework, practical assessments,
exams, case studies and project work. Emphasis is placed on the
development of critical evaluation and research skills with the use of
formative assessments throughout the programme of study.
Developmental feedback will enable you to widen the range of your
academic skills as you progress.
MSc EQUINE BEHAVIOUR, PERFORMANCE
TRAINING
Validated by
NEWPOSTGRADUATE
LOANS UP TO
£10,000
52 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
WHERE CAN I GO FROM HERE?
Master’s graduates have
progressed to careers in
lecturing, equestrian training,
research support, equestrian
journalism and performance
analysis or to study at doctorate
level.
UNITS COVERED
• Equestrian Training
• Equestrian Performance
• Applied Animal Behaviour
Science
• Research Methods
• Research Project
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
BSc (Hons) in a
science-related
programme at 2:2 or
above
53 SPARSHOLT.AC.UK 01962 776441
FISHERIES, AQUACULTURE &
University Centre Sparsholt is recognised worldwide for its expertise in providing education in fishery, aquaculture and marine studies.
Our lecturing staff are known to be the experts in the industry and can often be found at conferences and industry forums discussing the latest techniques and their supporting research.
Students gain real industry experience on and off-site that is underpinned by the high level of technical lecture content to prepare them for a range of careers or progression to courses at Master’s level.
Our industry contacts enable great employment prospects. Typically over 50% of our 3rd year students return from their work placements to sit their final exams with jobs already secured for after graduation.
COURSES
FdSc Sports Fisheries and Aquaculture
–Two years full-time
FdSc Marine Ecology and Conservation
–Two years full-time
BSc (Hons) Aquaculture and Fishery Management
–Three years full-time
–Top-up: one year full-time
MSc Applied Aquaculture and Sports Fisheries
–One year full-time
–Two years part-time
54 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
University Centre Sparsholt is renowned as the leading provider in advanced education for the fishery and aquaculture industries regionally, nationally and internationally.
As well as developing knowledge and conducting research, Sparsholt fish and aquaculture staff are often
called on as the acknowledged experts in the field.
Our industry links are exceptional as we work with organisations such as:
• British and Irish Association of Zoos and
Aquariums (BIAZA)
• British Zebrafish Association
• Institute of Marine Sciences at the University of
Portsmouth
• British Trout Association
• Institute of Fisheries Management
• Department for Environment, Food and Rural
Affairs (DEFRA)
• Ornamental Aquatic Trade Association (OATA)
• Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture
Science (CEFAS)
• KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board
• Environment Agency
• Carp TV
• Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authorities
(IFCAs)
INDUSTRY
56 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
BOB BSc (Hons) Aquaculture and Fishery Management graduate
I first heard about Sparsholt at an angling
show. Later, when I was looking to retrain,
I chose Sparsholt as it is renowned for
fisheries courses and I’d read a lot about it in
the angling press. I visited on an Open Day
and was impressed by the range of facilities.
I started on the FdSc course and progressed
on to the BSc Top-up. The best thing about
the course was the content of the units, the
level of teaching and the practical work. We
did seine netting and electrofishing off-site
as well as fish-rearing on-site. During the
second year we spawned catfish eggs – I
don’t think there’s anywhere else you’d get
to do this!
During the final year I completed my
dissertation on the effect of pharmaceuticals
on the development of zebrafish embryos,
with the use of the Aquatic Research and
Conservation Centre for my research. The
trial went really well and the support of the
lecturers was great, they helped give me a
push in the right direction when I needed it
and were very encouraging.
During the degree I went on three, month-
long, work placements. These placements
proved critical in securing my postgraduate
job. I’m currently working at a fish farm,
producing rainbow trout and carp. The
role involves fish husbandry tasks such as
hatchery work, daily feeding and fish health
treatments and fish-related maintenance
work including vegetation clearing,
construction work and pest control. It’s really
varied and no two days are the same.
Hear more from our students at sparsholt.ac.uk
57 SPARSHOLT.AC.UK 01962 776441
FACILITIES
LAKE
One hectare lake - fed by spring water from Sparsholt Salmonid Centre. Stocked with carp, roach, rudd, bream, crucian carp, tench and perch and used by students as part of their course and recreationally.
SALMONID REARING AND TRIALS CENTRE
£500,000 investment
Students experience commercial salmonid production
Research and development facility used by a number of large European fish food manufacturers
Produces brown trout for restocking local rivers and rainbow trout for the table
AQUATIC RESEARCH AND CONSERVATION CENTRE
Only one of its kind in the UK
ARK site for white-clawed crayfish
650m² purpose-built fish house
Holds stocks of carp, catfish, tilapia and an extensive range of ornamental species
Indoor koi pool
Research areas
Up-to-date holding systems
Marine habitats that replicate a range of global ecosystems
58 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
RESEARCH
Our lecturing staff are known to be the experts in the industry and can often be found at conferences and industry forums discussing the latest techniques and their supporting research.
Students gain real industry experience on and off-site that is underpinned by the high level of technical
content to prepare them for a range of careers or Master’s level study. With our own Salmonid rearing centre
we are at the forefront in many research/feed programmes at the heart of the industry.
FISH FEED DIETS
The sustainability of intensive aquaculture depends
on the development of cost-effective diets that
are not reliant on the finite resources of fish oil and
fishmeal.
Two recent research projects we have undertaken
at our fish feed trial facilities are:
• An economic assessment of feeds with varied
energy content for portion-sized rainbow trout,
Oncorhyncus mykiss
• An investigation into the use of land animal
proteins as a replacement for fishmeal in diets
for carp, Cyprinus carpio
THE IMPACT OF PHARMACEUTICALS IN AQUATIC ECOSYSTEMS
The occurrence of pharmaceuticals in the aquatic
environment is increasing. Concentrations of
pharmaceuticals discharged by sewage treatment
works effluent do not generally pose acute toxic
risk but may have chronic effects on physiology
and behavioural endpoints. Fish embryos are a
valid model species because they are particularly
susceptible to toxins and yet cannot physically
evade the discharge points.
This study investigated the effects of a range
of pharmaceuticals (namely propranolol and
fluoxetine) on the mortality and development of
zebrafish embryos.
RECENT RESEARCH TITLES
Invasive amphipod species - the reasons for their success,
Adrian Love (Institute for Fishery Management 2016 Conference)
Frequency of intersex phenotypes of Gammarus pulex
(Amphipoda) upstream and downstream from effluent of
sewage treatment works, Adrian Love, Neil Crooks and Alex T.
Ford (Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry 2016
Conference, Nantes)
Sewage treatment works’ effluent affects activity of Gammarus
pulex (Amphipoda), Adrian Love, Neil Crooks and Alex T. Ford
(Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry 2016
Conference, Nantes)
The effect of ‘liming’ as a technique to mitigate acidification
upon the macroinvertebrates of the river Fleet catchment,
Galloway Scotland, Antonio Couto (Institute for Fishery
Management 2016 Conference)
60 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
• Undergraduate at Swansea University
and postgraduate at Plymouth University,
completing an MSc in Applied Fish Biology
• Industry background in salmon and trout
farming working for a large multinational
salmon producer in Scotland, with brief spells in
Canada and Chile
• Maintains extensive contacts with the UK
aquaculture industry, in particular with
commercial feed manufacturers
• Manages Sparsholt’s fish trial facilities and
involved in collaborative research into
commercial salmonid, coarse and ornamental
fish diets
• Teaches the Aquaculture Unit on the MSc in
Applied Aquatic Biology at The University of
Portsmouth
• Worked in fish culture in South East Asia and
Africa
• Currently studying for a PhD in the impact of
pharmaceuticals on river invertebrates
• Particular interest in what makes fish ‘tick’ –
their diversity and physiology
• Teaching across aquaculture and water quality
units
• Close work with a range of leaders in the
aquatics industry – including Aquarian, Tetra,
Interpet, Hagen and JBL – developing trials and
exploring ways they can support and enrich the
students and courses
• Over 15 years’ experience working in the
fisheries industry and studying the biology and
management of fish
• Worked on a variety of commercially important
marine and freshwater fish and invertebrate
species in the UK and overseas in partnerships
with a range of organisations including the
Environment Agency and Cefas
• PhD examined the ecological impact of non-
native parasites introduced through aquaculture
on native British fish
• Recent projects range from studies on the use
of ecological networks in invasion biology to
assessments of river restoration on sport fish
populations
• On graduating from Aberdeen University
worked in the salmon farming industry before
joining the Environment Agency, roles included
managing a fish farm and mixed fishery,
bailiffing and fish population surveying
• PhD investigated the effects of temperature and
timing of first feeding in Atlantic salmon egg
and fry development
• Planned and developed Sparsholt’s Salmonid
Rearing and Trials Centre
EXPERTS
Adrian LoveMSc, PGCE, BSc (Hons), FHEA
Dr Josie Pegg PhD, MSc, BSc (Hons)
George Hide MSc, PGCE, BSc (Hons), FHEA
Dr David KossPhD, BSc (Hons), PGCE
SPARSHOLT.AC.UK 01962 776441 61
Duration: Two years full-time
UCAS Code: D439
Tutors: George Hide MSc,
PGCE, BSc (Hons), FHEA Dr Josie Pegg PhD, MSc, BSc (Hons) Adrian Love MSc, PGCE,
BSc (Hons), FHEA
WHY CHOOSE THIS DEGREE?
• Focus on vocational learning and gain skills in subjects such as
water quality, fish anatomy and physiology, aquaculture and fish
health and nutrition
• Experience the industry through visits to fish farms and fisheries
and research and collaborative projects
• Benefit from work placements in areas such as salmon farming,
specimen carp fisheries, river keeping, public aquaria or even
Jamaican tilapia farming
• Progress to final year of relevant BSc (Hons) programme after
successful completion
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
The programme is designed to develop the practical, scientific and
specialist skills needed by the fishery management and aquaculture
industry. Subjects studied include water quality, fish anatomy and
physiology, fishery management and ecology, aquaculture and fish
health and nutrition.
You will also gain work experience in various industry sectors. Previous
placements range from Scottish salmon farms, specimen fisheries in
England, France, Spain and Thailand and a tilapia farm in Jamaica to
river keeping on local chalk streams, the London Aquarium, the Fish
Disease Laboratory at Weymouth and bait manufacturers.
Study tours are embedded into the course at Level 4 (Scotland) and
Level 5 (Malta). They are a great opportunity to experience different
vocational opportunities and other facilities.
FdScSPORTS
FISHERIES AQUACULTURE
Validated by
62 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
Assessment is primarily
by coursework, including
practical portfolios, laboratory
reports, case studies and
essay style assignments. At
Level 5 a combination of
formal examinations and
group research projects
also contribute to overall
assessment.
WHERE CAN I GO FROM HERE?
You can progress to the BSc
(Hons) in Aquaculture and
Fishery Management Top-up at
Sparsholt; alternatively there are
BSc programmes available at
other universities.
Sparsholt students have also
gained employment as sports
fishery managers, fish farmers
and fishery officers in the
Environment Agency.
UNITS COVERED
Level 4• Introductory Science
• Fishery Science
• Water Quality
• Industry Skills
• Fishery Management
• Salmonid Aquaculture
• Academic Skills including IT
Level 5• Tropical Aquaculture
• Fish Health and Nutrition
• Marine and Warmwater Fish
Farming
• Fishery Appraisal
• Financial Studies
• Applied Industrial Research
• Work Practice 2
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
A Level Two A Level passes,
including one at grade C
or above which should
be in a science
BTEC Extended DiplomaMMP
City & Guilds Extended DiplomaP + 6 units at Merit or
above
BTEC DiplomaMM
City & Guilds DiplomaM
Access to HE A satisfactory pass in a
relevant Access course
with 45 credits at Level 3
International BaccalaureateAppropriate IB
Certificates considered
Plus GCSE maths and
English at grade C
or above or Level 2
Functional Skills in maths
and English.
63 01962 776441 SPARSHOLT.AC.UK
Duration: Two years full-time
UCAS Code: CF17
Tutor: Dr Josie Pegg PhD, MSc, BSc (Hons)
WHY CHOOSE THIS DEGREE?
• Gain the skills and experience needed for a variety of career
opportunities in this growing sector
• Enhance your learning with work placements such as coral
research and shark conservation both in the UK and abroad
• Experience the industry in depth by visiting UK and international
fish farms, coastal sites and research centres
• Develop wide-reaching skills and knowledge in biological science
– from physiology to ecology and evolution
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
Marine ecology and conservation systems are studied in depth in
this programme as you explore the impact of factors such as coastal
developments, over-fishing, non-native species and worldwide
climate change.
The course includes significant work experience in marine
aquaculture, coastal fisheries, marine aquaria and research
establishments both at home and abroad.
Study tours are embedded into the course at Level 4 (Scotland) and
Level 5 (Malta). They are a great opportunity to experience different
vocational opportunities and other facilities.
I really enjoyed the practical side of the course as I was able to put the skills I’d learnt about in the classroom into action.”
FdScMARINE
ECOLOGY CONSERVATION
Validated by
64 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
Assessment is primarily by
coursework, including practical
portfolios, laboratory reports,
case studies and essay style
assignments, plus three formal
exams. Research opportunities
are also a feature, often
enabling data collection within
organisations such as the
Environment Agency.
WHERE CAN I GO FROM HERE?
You can progress to the BSc
(Hons) Top-up in Marine Biology
at the University of Portsmouth,
or enter the industry. Sparsholt
students now work in national
wildlife trusts and marine
research.
UNITS COVERED
Each year includes an assessed
work placement unit.
Level 4• Intro to Aquatic Ecology
• Science and Animal
Physiology
• Academic Skills including IT
• Marine Conservation Biology
• Marine Ecology and Marine
Fisheries Management
• Biodiversity and Evolution
• Introductory Science
• Work Practice
Level 5• Aquatic Population Ecology
and Conservation
• Marine Animal Science
including Anatomy and
Physiology
• Marine Aquaculture
• Marine Organisms and
Ecosystems
• Applied Industrial Research
including Data Analysis
• Population and Ecology
• Work Practice 2
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
A Level Two A Level passes,
including one at grade C
or above which should
be in a science
BTEC Extended DiplomaMMP
City & Guilds Extended DiplomaP + 6 units at Merit or
above
BTEC DiplomaMM
City & Guilds DiplomaM
Access to HE A satisfactory pass in a
relevant Access course
with 45 credits at Level 3
International BaccalaureateAppropriate IB
Certificates considered
Plus GCSE maths and
English at grade C
or above or Level 2
Functional Skills in maths
and English.
65 01962 776441 SPARSHOLT.AC.UK
BSc AQUACULTURE
FISHERY MANAGEMENT
Duration: Three years full-time One year BSc Top-up also available
UCAS Code: Full-time D480 Top-up D435
Tutors: George Hide MSc,
PGCE, BSc (Hons), FHEA Dr Josie Pegg PhD, MSc, BSc (Hons) Adrian Love MSc, PGCE,
BSc (Hons), FHEA
WHY CHOOSE THIS DEGREE?
• One course that will develop you from introductory level in year 1
through to independent research and application in year 3
• Gain a wide range of practical experience and knowledge in
subjects such as fish anatomy and physiology, business and
environmental management and aquaculture
• Take part in work placements in places such as Thailand, Fiji, South
Africa or closer to home in Scotland
• Be taught by leading industry experts in unrivalled on-site facilities
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
The programme combines scientific, managerial and practical skills that
are developed in a range of subjects such as water quality, fish anatomy
and physiology, fishery management and ecology, aquaculture, fish
health and nutrition, business and environmental management.
During the course there are also extensive periods of work experience.
Recent placements have included carp fisheries in Spain and France,
a large game fishery in Thailand, salmon farms in Tasmania and New
Zealand, a goldfish farm in the United States, Royal aquariums in the
Middle East, research into ornamental fish welfare in the Philippines,
Coral Cay Conservation in Fiji and research for the KwaZulu-Natal
Shark Board in South Africa.
Closer to home University Centre Sparsholt has excellent links with
potential placement destinations including public aquariums, coarse
and game fisheries, government fishery laboratories and numerous
fish farms.
Study tours are embedded into the course at Level 4 (Scotland),
Level 5 (Malta) and Level 6 (Spain). They are a great opportunity to
experience different vocational opportunities and other facilities.
Validated by
66 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
Assessment at Level 4 and
5 is primarily by exams and
coursework which includes
practical portfolios, laboratory
reports, case studies and essay
style assignments. At Level 6
there is a greater emphasis on
group projects and independent
research.
WHERE CAN I GO FROM HERE?
You can progress to the MSc
in Applied Aquaculture and
Sports Fisheries at Sparsholt;
alternatively there are many
MSc and PhD programmes
available at other universities.
Sparsholt graduates now
work as aquatic and fishery
management consultants, in
specialist angling publications,
tackle and bait manufacturers,
public aquaria, fisheries
enforcement and product
development, as lab and
research technicians, in
education and teaching and
as fish farmers and fishery
managers.
UNITS COVERED
Level 4• Work Practice
• Fishery Science
• Water Quality
• Industry Skills
• Fishery Aquaculture
• Salmonid Farming
• Academic Skills including IT
• Introductory Science
Level 5• Tropical Aquaculture
• Fish Health and Nutrition
• Aquaculture Systems
• Marine and Warmwater Fish
Farming
• Fishery Appraisal
• Financial Studies
• Data Analysis
• Work Practice 2
• Mariculture
Level 6• Applied Fishery Science
• Developments in Fish
Production and Processing
• Enterprise and Management
• Environmental Management
• Dissertation
• Data Analysis
• Work Practice 3
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
A Level Three A Level passes,
including two at grade C
or above, one of which
should be in a science
BTEC Extended DiplomaDMM
City & Guilds Extended DiplomaM + 6 units at Distinction
BTEC DiplomaN/A
City & Guilds DiplomaN/A
Access to HE A Merit profile in a
relevant Access course
with 45 credits at Level 3
International Baccalaureate24 points with HL
Science at 4
Plus GCSE maths and
English at grade C
or above or Level 2
Functional Skills in maths
and English.
01962 776441 67 SPARSHOLT.AC.UK
Duration: One year full-time or two years part-time
Application: Apply directly using the form inside this guide or on our website
Tutor: Dr Josie Pegg PhD, MSc, BSc (Hons)
WHY CHOOSE THIS DEGREE?
• Taught by industry experts who are research active and have
strong national and international links
• Benefit from the on-site husbandry, rearing and extensive research
facilities of the Salmonid Rearing and Trials Centre and the Aquatic
Research and Conservation Centre
• Enjoy excellent access to exclusive sports fisheries in southern
England as well as on-site fishery and stocks of sports fish
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
Building on a strong science foundation, the course is designed to
expand your knowledge of the husbandry and rearing of many global
aquaculture species and refine your research techniques in applied
aquaculture, sports fisheries and sustainable fisheries management.
In addition to traditional lectures and seminars, units are delivered
using the practical resources of our Aquatic Research and
Conservation Centre, unique amongst land-based colleges, Salmonid
Rearing and Trials Centre and on-site fishery, industry specific software
and databases, conference attendance, guest speakers and off-site
visits. Links are encouraged to external organisations, commercial
companies and collaborative research projects.
MSc AQUACULTURE SPORTS FISHERIES
Validated by
NEWPOSTGRADUATE
LOANS UP TO
£10,000
68 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
Units are assessed by a mixture
of coursework including
posters, presentations and
written assignments plus an
original dissertation requiring
independent research and
formal write-up. You will be
encouraged to submit written
papers for publication in
appropriate industry related
journals.
WHERE CAN I GO FROM HERE?
Typical employment
destinations include technical
roles in aquaculture,
sport fishery consultants,
government fishery scientists
for organisations such as Cefas
and the Environment Agency.
Alternatively you may choose
to continue with doctorate
research.
UNITS COVERED
• Applied Aquaculture
• Sports Fishery Management
• Sustainable Fisheries
Management
• Research Toolkit
• Research Project
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
BSc (Hons) in a
science-related
programme at 2:2 or
above
I’ve always wanted to come to Sparsholt as it is the most renowned establishment for fisheries courses.”
69 01962 776441 SPARSHOLT.AC.UK
Sparsholt has excellent connections with the Horticulture industry, so I have regular opportunities to meet with experts in the field, to gain first hand insights and to build new networks.”
HORTICULTURE
Our courses were developed to meet the needs of the Horticulture industry, reflecting Sparsholt’s experience and reputation in the sector.
Links with leading organisations as well as innovative projects with companies such as Huhtamaki, a world-leading producer of compostable packaging, ensure students graduate with relevant, hands-on experience as well as technical expertise.
Sparsholt staff are active on a local and national level, with expert profiles in areas from English apple varieties to garden design, and have a regular presence at key industry events.
COURSES
FdSc Horticulture with Plantsmanship and Design
–Two years full-time
–Three years part-time
BSc (Hons) Horticulture with Plantsmanship and Design (Top-up)
–One year full-time
–Two years part-time
70 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
These courses were developed to meet the needs of the Horticulture industry, reflecting Sparsholt’s experience and reputation in the sector.
Links with leading organisations as well as
innovative projects with companies such
as Huhtamaki, a world-leading producer of
compostable packaging, ensure students graduate
with relevant, hands-on experience as well as
technical expertise.
Our tutors are active on a local and national level,
with expert profiles in areas from English apple
varieties to garden design and have a regular
presence at key industry events.
Seven gold medals at RHS Chelsea Flower Show
highlight the consistency of the expertise and
reputation of the Horticulture team at Sparsholt.
Some of the organisations we work with include:
• The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS)
• Plant Heritage
• The Chartered Institute of Horticulture
• The National Trust
• The Horticultural Development Company
• BBC Radio 4 Gardeners’ Question Time
• The Horticultural Trades Association
• Landex
• The Society of Garden Designers
• Hillier Nurseries and Garden Centre
• British Association of Landscape Industries (BALI)
• Steve’s Leaves
INDUSTRY
72 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
GEORGE FdSc Horticulture with Plantsmanship and Design student
It was not a difficult decision choosing to
continue at Sparsholt after two fantastic
years studying the Level 3 Extended Diploma.
The FdSc course covers a diverse range
of subjects allowing me to broaden my
knowledge and skills in the industry, as well
as providing networking opportunities. So
far I have enjoyed working in the labs on
experiments such as testing soils and backing
up my practical skills with knowledge
and science. Plant classification and
nomenclature with its practical idents has
also helped my knowledge in this area.
We are able to carry out two sets of work
experience. Last year I had the opportunity to
go up to the RHS Chelsea Flower Show and
work with a designer on two gardens, which
won gold and silver medals. In the second
year we work on an investigative project –
I’m currently researching the effects of Brexit
on the ornamental horticulture industry.
After the course I am looking to stay on for a
further Top-up year to secure my BSc (Hons)
in Horticulture with Plantsmanship and
Design. Beyond this, I am looking to pursue a
career in plant breeding.
As a progressing student I can honestly say
I have been challenged throughout both
courses. I have made some fantastic friends
with whom I have shared amazing memories
and I would highly recommend both courses
to people thinking about getting started in
Horticulture.
Hear more from our students at sparsholt.ac.uk
SPARSHOLT.AC.UK 01962 776441 73
FACILITIES
Five hectares dedicated to horticultural practice
–Home to BBC Radio 4 Gardeners’ Question Time Potting Shed and Garden
Landscaped gardens, lawns and decorative beds
Multi-bay production polytunnels
Garden design studio
Small fruit area (orchard)
Turf management area
Tropical glasshouses used all year round
Drawing studio
Ornamental grounds providing a wide variety of plants for identification and analysis
Sports and recreation areas
74 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
The Horticulture facilities are excellent and complement the academic elements of my course.”
75 SPARSHOLT.AC.UK 01962 776441
DESIGN
Our students are regularly invited to enter garden design competitions in connection with local organisations, giving excellent hands-on professional experience. Recent projects include:
TEDWORTH HOUSE, TIDWORTH
Tedworth House, Tidworth, is the southern
location for Help for Heroes to assist wounded
servicemen and veterans and their loved ones in
their individual recovery. As a way of encouraging
active and fulfilling lives during their rehabilitation,
Tedworth House held a garden design competition
for Sparsholt students to submit plans as a
gardening project for the residents to install.
FdSc Horticulture with Plantsmanship and Design
student Joseph Willoughby was selected as the
winner. His plans were successful largely because
of the practical and achievable elements of his
design. These attributes showed consideration
for the physical abilities of the past and present
serviceman responsible for renovating the garden
and secured his place as winner of this external
charity project.
DEAN GARNIER GARDEN, WINCHESTER
Students were given the fantastic opportunity to
submit designs for Dean Garnier Garden, housed
in the grounds of local landmark, Winchester
Cathedral.
Presented in front of a panel, Rachel Benson,
FdSc Horticulture with Plantsmanship and Design
student’s designs stood out due to attention to
factors such as fragrance and seasons, as well as
best reflecting the context of the garden itself.
Installation of Rachel’s plans will be undertaken
by Sparsholt students, enabling them to gain
experience in industry, working to replant a high
profile garden following Rachel’s strong brief.
76 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
• Holds a BA (Hons) degree in Graphic Design
from Central Saint Martins and after 22
successful years running a London based design
agency gained diplomas in Horticulture and
Garden Design and set up own garden design
consultancy
• Has worked in the garden design industry for 12
years
• Fully registered member of the Society of
Garden Designers
• Works closely with outside organisations, such
as Plant Heritage, the RHS and the National
Trust, to promote plant use
• Designate RHS judge
• Co-ordinated Sparsholt’s display for the RHS
Chelsea Flower Show since 1998; resulting in
numerous awards including seven Gold medals
and four ‘Best in Category’
• Recently edited The Fundamentals of
Horticulture: Theory and Practice
EXPERTS
Chris Bird MHort (RHS), NCH, Cert Ed, FCIHort
Chris Prior Dip Hort, Dip Garden Design, BA (Hons), MSGD, FHEA
• Studied Biology at Oxford and then an MSc in
Business Strategy, Politics and the Environment,
building on interest in the relationship between
the land and wider society and culture
• Worked as an environmental co-ordinator for
Reed Elsevier, before taking up a directorship
with family farm
• Currently undertaking a PhD looking at the
impact of mechanisation in agriculture on the
economy, society and culture at the turn of the
last century
• Teaches Business units across a range of
Sparsholt degrees
• Achieved a Foundation Degree in Wildlife
Management from Sparsholt in 2006, giving a
solid background in ecology which influences
her approach to garden design
• Combined her love for both horticulture and
ecology with a BSc (Hons) in Garden Design,
graduating from Sparsholt a second time in
2013
• Runs a successful garden design and
maintenance company in addition to her
sessional lecturing role
Alex MarkhamMSc, BA (Hons)
Sarah AndrewsBSc (Hons), FdSc
SPARSHOLT.AC.UK 01962 776441 77
FdScHORTICULTURE
WITH PLANTSMANSHIP DESIGN
Duration: Two years full-time or three years part-time
UCAS Code: Full-time D417 Part-time apply directly using the form inside this guide or on our website
Tutor: Chris Bird MHort (RHS), NCH,
Cert Ed, FCIHort
WHY CHOOSE THIS DEGREE?
• Combine the science of horticulture with commercially sought-
after elements of plantsmanship and garden design
• Gain the skills to progress to a BSc Top-up programme or enter
the industry
• Enhance your employability with commercially based projects,
strong business content and project management units
• Combine study and work with this full or part-time course
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
The course introduces higher level study and explores the various
science, design and business elements of horticulture. You will
develop vital knowledge and experience through industry placement,
as well as research and analytical skills through independent and
group study.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
The assessment strategy is a combination of formal examination and
coursework. Coursework includes practical portfolios, laboratory
reports, case studies, plant identification tests, visual poster
displays, seminar presentations and essay style assignments. Formal
examinations are weighted to be no more than 50% of the unit total.
Validated by
78 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
WHERE CAN I GO FROM HERE?
You can progress to the BSc
Horticulture with Plantsmanship
and Design Top-up course at
Sparsholt. Alternatively there
are many BSc programmes
available at other universities.
You will have the plant
knowledge and skills needed by
the private and public sectors
in many diverse areas, including
retail, landscaping, research
and production. Opportunities
also exist within landscape
organisations. While traditionally
garden designers have always
worked on a self-employed,
freelance basis, recent years
have seen a significant increase
in the number of employed job
roles in this area of work.
UNITS COVERED
Level 4• Plant Biology and Processes
• Soils and Substrates
• Plant Classification and
Nomenclature
• Introduction to Business in
Horticulture
• Academic Skills
• Design Influences
Level 5• Work Practice 2
• Investigative Project
• Plant Protection
• Plant Identification and Use
• Landscape Management
• Horticulture Enterprise and
Management
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
A Level Two A Level passes,
including one at grade C
or above which should
be in a science
BTEC Extended DiplomaMMP
City & Guilds Extended DiplomaP + 6 units at Merit or
above
BTEC DiplomaMM
City & Guilds DiplomaM
Access to HE A satisfactory pass in a
relevant Access course
with 45 credits at Level 3
International BaccalaureateAppropriate IB
Certificates considered
Plus GCSE maths and
English at grade C
or above or Level 2
Functional Skills in maths
and English.
79 01962 776441 SPARSHOLT.AC.UK
WHY CHOOSE THIS DEGREE?
• Study at a renowned
organisation with close links
with industry
• Top-up your existing
qualifications to full BSc level
over one or two years
• Focus on employability by
enhancing your technical
and academic skills
• Enhance plant knowledge
tailored to your individual
career aspirations
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
This course will develop your
technical, critical thinking and
analytical skills over the course
of five units. Delivered flexibly
with up to two taught days
a week, it aims to build on
your current knowledge in an
industry-standard environment.
Through the dissertation project
you will produce a study and
analyse, explain and interpret
the results using techniques
gained throughout the course.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
You will showcase your
knowledge through a
combination of written
assignments, case studies,
seminar presentations and
exams. The dissertation unit will
prove your skills within the field
of research and we encourage
students to present this work to
other organisations.
UNITS COVERED
Level 6• Sustainable Horticultural
Practice
• Planting Design and Use
• Propagation and Production
Techniques
• Design Innovations and
Influences
• Dissertation
Duration: One year full-time or two years part-time
UCAS Code: Full-time DD41 Part-time apply directly using the form inside this guide or on our website
Tutor: Chris Bird MHort (RHS), NCH,
Cert Ed, FCIHort
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Foundation Degree or
equivalent in Horticulture
or a related subject
BScHORTICULTURE WITHPLANTSMANSHIP DESIGN
Validated by
80 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
The lecturers were excellent – very knowledgeable and with extensive experience of working in the industry.”
81 SPARSHOLT.AC.UK 01962 776441
We do a lot of practicals and the lecturers are incredibly knowledgeable and enthusiastic; I don’t think you’d get the same commitment anywhere else.”
WILDLIFE ECOLOGY &
We do a lot of practicals and the lecturers are incredibly knowledgeable and enthusiastic; I don’t think you’d get the same commitment anywhere else.”
We have run specialist Wildlife Ecology and Conservation courses since 1973 and have developed an enviable reputation for our work. The department has close working links with many of the major wildlife and conservation organisations and is recognised as a leading land-based college in this field.
Our department’s staff all have practical experience and qualifications relevant to their particular specialism as well as staying actively involved in the study and management of ecology, wildlife, conservation, game and the countryside.
COURSES
FdSc Wildlife Ecology and Conservation
–Two years full-time
BSc (Hons) Wildlife Ecology and Conservation
–Three years full-time
–Top-up: one year full-time
82 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
INDUSTRY
Our tutors have practical experience and qualifications relevant to their particular specialism as well as staying actively involved in the study and management of ecology, wildlife, conservation, game and the countryside.
University Centre Sparsholt has also established
close links with a range of landowners and
conservation organisations throughout the country
and has unprecedented access to a wide variety
of sites, so that students can experience a diversity
of wildlife and habitats, and their management,
first-hand. Site visits and talks given by visiting
speakers with specific expertise are integrated into
our courses.
We work with organisations such as: • Natural England
• Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust
• Hampshire County Council
• The National Trust
• Ecology & Countryside Service
• The Wildlife Trusts
• Farming & Wildlife Advisory Group (FWAG)
• Forestry Commission
Sparsholt gave me the practical skills and confidence to talk to people and the knowledge and skills to really prepare me for the Conservation sector.”
84 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
Hear more from our students at sparsholt.ac.uk
ANDY BSc (Hons) Ecology and Conservation Management graduate
I wanted to complete my BSc at Sparsholt as
it has always had such a good reputation and
offered a course I thought would provide me
with the skills to enter the workplace.
I thought the course was exceptional and
the lecturers definitely provided the main
advantage with their vast experience and
wealth of industry contacts. The course is full
of useful material but for me a particularly
useful skill was learning to be far more
resourceful and independent in my learning.
As a mature student it also gave me skills that
weren’t really available at school such as IT,
which will now allow me to access a greater
variety of jobs in the future.
I found the facilities to be first rate and miss
spending hours in the fantastic library. The
lecturers were incredibly supportive and
provided many useful contacts in industry.
I am currently a Forest Craftsperson for the
Forestry Commission. It’s a varied role which
includes many forestry operations such as
tree felling, fencing and ride management
but also involves maintenance of recreation
equipment, spending time talking to the
public and helping other members of the
team.
There seem to be Sparsholt graduates
working everywhere in this industry so it
provides an instant talking point. Sparsholt
has a fantastic grasp of what the industry
wants from graduates and I feel they’ve
provided the basis for me to go out with the
skills and knowledge to begin my new career.
85 SPARSHOLT.AC.UK 01962 776441
FACILITIES
176-hectare estate
Conservation management plan and countryside stewardship schemes
Managed rural environment including semi-natural woodland designated as a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation
Woodland shelterbelt with newly established woodland and recreated semi-natural grassland
One hectare lake with reed-bed
Aquatic Research and Conservation Centre with ARK site for white-clawed crayfish
On-site renewable technologies
86 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
RESEARCH University Centre Sparsholt’s Wildlife Ecology and Conservation students benefit from excellent resources and staff who are highly knowledgeable and ensure applied conservation skills are acquired.
On-site facilities include managed semi-natural woodland, restored chalk grassland, lake and reed-bed
habitats, and farmed land under countryside stewardship schemes. Species ID, habitat management and
survey work are key elements of the course.
REDUCING AGRICULTURAL DIFFUSED POLLUTION THROUGH THE USE OF OVER WINTER COVER CROPS
This research was conducted by Matthew Norris-
Hill, Course Tutor BSc (Hons) Wildlife Ecology and
Conservation supported by a BSc (Hons) Wildlife
Ecology and Conservation student.
Only 17% of England’s water bodies meet the
requirement to be in ‘good ecological condition’
and one of the biggest issues with water quality
in England is diffused pollution from agriculture.
The study involved planting trial crops to prevent
leaching into the waterways through a series of
trial plots which were established to investigate the
effectiveness of different crop types in reducing
leaching of nitrates. This research was undertaken
in conjunction with the Environment Agency,
Natural England Catchment Sensitive Farming,
Wheatsheaf Farming Company and The Campaign
for the Farmed Environment (CFE).
This system could prevent soil erosion, improve soil
conditioning for the establishment of future crops,
suppressing weed growth and providing organic
matter that will benefit worm populations.
88 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
• Holds a BSc (Hons) in Wildlife Conservation
and an MSc in Environmental Management for
Agriculture as well as qualifications in teaching,
applied biology and veterinary nursing. Varied
experience including work on conservation
management and wildlife rescue projects
• Teaches academic skills and science as well as a
range of ecological topics
• External Examiner working with several
universities to verify assessment on animal
science and conservation degrees
• Worked in Wildlife Management and Agriculture,
including roles for the National Trust and the
Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group (FWAG)
• Extensive current involvement in the industry
and with the South East FWAG Association as an
Independent Farm Conservation Advisor
• External Examiner for a number of universities
and currently at Plymouth University, Duchy
College
• Holds a BSc (Hons) in Conservation & Wildlife
Management and an MSc in Environmental
Management from University of London,
Birkbeck College
• Lifelong conservationist and field naturalist, with
a specialist interest in reptiles and amphibians
• Worked as a Research Technician in vertebrate
and bacterial genetics at The University
of Leicester, Conservation Officer for
Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust and
in commercial consultancy as an ecologist
• Holds a BSc (Hons) in Zoology from The
University of Manchester
• Farming/gamekeeping background, studied
Agricultural and Environmental Science at
Newcastle University
• Specialises in data analysis and information
technology on units including Applied Industrial
Research and Data Analysis
• Developed the Geographical Information
Systems element of the course and teaches the
use of ArcMap in the third year of the degree
programme
EXPERTS
Matthew Norris-Hill MSc, PGCE, BSc (Hons), SFHEA
Andrew Quayle PGCE, BSc (Hons), FHEA
Nicola Edwards MSc, PGCE, BSc (Hons)
Martin EdwardsMBA, PGCE, BSc (Hons)
SPARSHOLT.AC.UK 01962 776441 89
Duration: Two years full-time
UCAS Code: C18M
Tutors: Matthew Norris-Hill MSc, PGCE, BSc (Hons),
SFHEA
Andrew Quayle PGCE, BSc (Hons), FHEA
Nicola Edwards MSc, PGCE, BSc (Hons)
WHY CHOOSE THIS DEGREE?
• Gain the skills the industry needs - both academic and practical -
through work-related learning
• Expert lecturers with local and national links sharing vital industry
contacts
• Choose to progress on to a BSc Top-up course to continue your
studies after successful completion
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
The programme brings a scientific approach to the management of
plant and animal communities through investigation of ecological
and scientific concepts. You will also explore legislative, financial and
planning processes to gain a truly integrated understanding of wildlife
conservation. Identification, sampling and monitoring of wildlife and
sites is applied and supported by field trips.
Our strong links with landowners and conservation organisations
mean you will enjoy access to a wide range of sites and conservation
projects, as well as University Centre Sparsholt’s own excellent
resources.
Work-related learning is key, so you will also gain practical experience
and contacts with a variety of organisations through visits, guest
speakers and work placements.
FdSc WILDLIFE
ECOLOGY CONSERVATION
Validated by
90 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
Both formative assessments –
allowing you to develop
research and study skills as
well as technical and expert
knowledge – and summative
assessment feature in this
programme.
Summative assessments
include written assignments,
presentations, project and lab
reports, practical based and
online portfolios and open and
closed examinations.
WHERE CAN I GO FROM HERE?
You can continue your studies
with our BSc (Hons) Top-up
programme, or enter industry.
Many of our graduates use their
skills to start a business or to
work in wildlife conservation
or consultancy with non-
governmental organisations
(NGOs) or government bodies
such as Natural England.
UNITS COVERED
Level 4• Global Ecosystems
• Fundamentals of Science
• Conservation Work Practice
• Habitat and Species
Identification
• Academic Skills
• Introductory Ecology
Level 5• Countryside Law and Policies
• Applied Industrial Research
• Conservation Land
Management
• Applied Ecology
• Field Ecology Techniques
• Conservation Site
Management
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
A Level Two A Level passes,
including one at grade C
or above one of which
should be in a science
BTEC Extended DiplomaMMP
City & Guilds Extended DiplomaP + 6 units at Merit or
above
BTEC DiplomaMM
City & Guilds DiplomaM
Access to HE A satisfactory pass in a
relevant Access course
with 45 credits at Level 3
International BaccalaureateAppropriate IB
Certificates considered
Plus GCSE maths and
English at grade C
or above or Level 2
Functional Skills in maths
and English.
91 01962 776441 SPARSHOLT.AC.UK
Validated by
Duration: Three years full-time One year BSc Top-up also available
UCAS Code: Full-time C185 Top-up C184
Tutors: Matthew Norris-Hill MSc, PGCE, BSc (Hons),
FHEA
Andrew Quayle PGCE, BSc (Hons), FHEA
Nicola Edwards MSc, PGCE, BSc (Hons)
WHY CHOOSE THIS DEGREE?
• Excellent reputation, close links with landowners and
unprecedented access to a wide variety of sites
• Learn on our 176-hectare estate with conservation management
plan, countryside stewardship schemes and a varied managed
rural environment
• Develop ecological expertise through research, surveying and data
collection, and conservation management planning
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
The course applies a scientific approach to natural resource
management, wildlife conservation and sustainability, with an overall
theme of applied ecological science. You will develop the skills to
analyse and monitor a range of diverse ecosystems in the field and
design and effectively implement management plans.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
Both formative assessments - allowing you to develop research
and study skills as well as technical and expert knowledge - and
summative assessment feature in this programme. Summative
assessments include completion of a research dissertation, written
assignments, presentations, project and lab reports, practical based
and online portfolios and open and closed examinations.
BSc WILDLIFEECOLOGY CONSERVATION
92 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
WHERE CAN I GO FROM HERE?
You can progress on to
postgraduate study, gain
employment with conservation
organisations or use your skills
to run your own business.
Sparsholt graduates now
hold positions in wildlife
conservation and consultancy,
with government bodies such as
Natural England and with non-
governmental organisations
(NGOs).
UNITS COVERED
Level 4• Global Ecosystems
• Science Foundations
• Conservation Work Practice
• Habitat and Species
Identification
• Introductory Ecology
• Academic Skills
Level 5• Land Use Policies and
Legislations
• Wildlife Research Projects
• Conservation Land
Management
• Applied Ecology
• Field Ecology Techniques
• Conservation Site
Management
• Data Analysis 1
Level 6• Dissertation
• Data Analysis 2
• Landscape Ecology and
Geographic Information
Systems (GIS)
• Sustainable Resource
Management
• Project and Site
Management
• Global Biodiversity
• Professional Industrial
Development
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
A Level Three A Level passes,
including two at grade C
or above one of which
should be in a science
BTEC Extended DiplomaDMM
City & Guilds Extended DiplomaM + 6 units at Distinction
BTEC DiplomaN/A
City & Guilds DiplomaN/A
Access to HE A Merit profile in a
relevant Access course
with 45 credits at Level 3
International Baccalaureate24 points with HL
Science at 4
Plus GCSE maths and
English at grade C
or above or Level 2
Functional Skills in maths
and English.
93 01962 776441 SPARSHOLT.AC.UK
FINANCE
The information provided here is accurate as of
February 2017. Students are advised to confirm the
situation at time of application by referring to the
website or checking with the Admissions team.
Study Options – full or part-time?
We have listed full and part-time tuition fees, tuition
fee loan details and some of the funds that may
be available to help with study-related costs such
as travel or childcare. If you still have questions,
please give us a call on 01962 797269 and we will
be happy to help.
Studying part-time gives you flexibility around work
and family commitments and allows you to earn at
the same time as studying. Some of our Foundation
Degrees - FdSc - Honours Degrees - BSc (Hons)
and Master’s Degrees - MSc - can be studied part-
time at Sparsholt. You can also apply for a tuition
fee loan - see if you qualify by visiting www.gov.uk/studentfinance or calling 0300 100 0607.
Please note if you are applying for a full-time
course you must do so through UCAS; if you are
applying for a part-time course or MSc you should
apply directly to us using the forms in the back of
this guide or online at www.sparsholt.ac.uk
Tuition Fees
Full-time Higher Education Courses (commencing
September 2018).
All undergraduate students are required to pay
an annual tuition fee – but if you are a UK or EU
undergraduate you will not have to pay these from
your own means before or during study as you
are eligible for a student tuition fee loan to cover
the cost of fees. The government pays the tuition
fee directly to the College so no money passes
through your bank account and you do not have to
pay back the loan and interest until you are earning
more than £21,000 a year. If you leave your course
early you would need to repay a percentage of the
tuition fee loan for that year.
Access to HE Programme – this programme is also
eligible for tuition fee loan through an Advanced
Learner Loan. Please visit www.gov.uk for further
information.
Please note course fees for 2018 have not yet been
set, the information below shows the fees for 2017
as a guide. The new fee schedule will be updated
online at sparsholt.ac.uk
Annual Course Fees for UK/EU Students 2017–18
Full-time Access to HE £5,197FdSc and BSc Programmes £9,250 (except FdSc Veterinary Nursing)
FdSc Veterinary Nursing £6,600MSc programmes £6,700*
Part-timeFdSc and BSc Programmes £4,625MSc programmes £3,350*
*A 10% discount for Sparsholt students directly progressing.
Accommodation Fees
Sparsholt self-catering accommodation £4,495The University of Winchester Halls £5,217
Please note fees for 2018 have not yet been set,
the information above shows the fees for 2016-17 as a
guide. The new fee schedule will be updated online at
sparsholt.ac.uk
International Students
If you have not been ordinarily resident in the
European Union (including UK) for three years prior
to the commencement of your course of studies,
you will be eligible for international fees; also, if you
are not normally resident in an EEA member state it
is likely that you will need to apply for a student visa
after your successful application to the College.
You must be over the age of 18 to commence
Higher Education at the College. You must have a
minimum IELTS score of 6. For further information
about courses, applications, entry requirements,
international fees and visas, please email
94 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
Annual Course Fees for International Students 2017–18
Full-timeAll courses (excluding MSc) £9,800FdSc Veterinary Nursing £7,500MSc programmes £9,200*
*A 10% discount applies for progressing Sparsholt
students.
FINANCIAL
Maintenance Loans for Full-time Undergraduate Students
There is a maintenance loan available to any
full-time student to help with living costs such as
rent. This does have to be repaid but not until your
course has finished and you are earning more than
£21,000 a year. Sparsholt is required to confirm
your attendance/enrolment with the Student
Loan Company before maintenance loans can
be released – so any payments will be received
roughly a week after enrolment.
Find out more about how much you may be
entitled to by visiting www.gov.uk/studentfinance where there is a calculator you can use to check
your eligibility.
New Postgraduate Loans
If you’re starting a postgraduate course you could
be entitled to a government backed loan of up to
£10,000. To find out if you’re eligible for this loan,
please visit www.gov.uk/postgraduate-loan
Enhanced Learning Credits
University Centre Sparsholt is an Approved Learning
Provider for the Ministry of Defence’s Enhanced
Learning Credits (ELC) scheme. Under this scheme
the MOD will pay up to 80% of your tuition fees
for study at Level 3 or above for up to three years
(NVQ3, Advanced National Certificate or
Foundation Degrees).
University Centre Sparsholt Bursary
If your household income is under £25,000 you
could receive a bursary of up to £750. Once
you have enrolled you will be able to collect an
application form for this from Student Services
- please fill this in so we can look at your
circumstances and help wherever possible.
Progressing Sparsholt Students - Aim Higher Bursary
If you are completing a full-time Level 3
programme at Sparsholt in 2018 and are
progressing to an HE course at Sparsholt, you
may be entitled to an additional bursary to assist
with your transition. This is will be means tested
and directed at those in most need. For more
information and to check your eligibility please
contact Student Services on 01962 797346.
Please contact the Student Administration Team
on 01962 797346 for further details.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) or Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL)
If you have work experience or previous
qualifications relevant to your chosen course, or
even experience gained through volunteering or a
hobby, you may be entitled to an exemption from
part of your course allowing you to complete your
programme more quickly.
If you feel that this service could be relevant to you
and you would like to apply for this accreditation,
you will need to discuss your previous experience
and qualifications with a tutor at the interview
stage. The tutor will then be able to evaluate
your previous experience and the extent of likely
accreditation. All RPL or APL must be agreed and
validated by the University of Portsmouth before
your course commences.
95 SPARSHOLT.AC.UK 01962 77644101962 776441SPARSHOLT.AC.UK
Newbury
Thatcham
Amesbury
Salisbury
FordingbridgeRomsey
Calmore
Locks Heath
Fareham
Gosport
Portsmouth
Isle of Wight
Lyndhurst
Ringwood
Bournemouth
Lymington
Aldershot
Winchester
UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
TRANSPORT
Students travel to Sparsholt from across the region,
so we aim to make the journey as easy and cost
effective as possible. Whether you’re getting the
train from Southampton, Eastleigh, Totton or
Basingstoke or the bus from across Hampshire and
the county borders, we’ll help you find the best way
to get into College.
Please check the map below for your nearest
location. If you need further information please
contact our transport team on 01962 797346 or
visit www.sparsholt.ac.uk/information/transport
We offer a range of options including Campus Bus
Travel which is our private fleet of buses that will
pick up from the areas below. For those not on the
campus bus routes, there are Public Transport
options with train and connecting buses straight to
campus
We offer a range of passes which enable you to pay
for your travel effectively including a combined bus
and train pass. Payment for bus passes can be
spread over nine months by direct debit at no extra
cost by paying an initial 10% at application.
HELP TOWARDS TRANSPORT COSTS
If your household income is under £25,000 you
could receive a bursary of up to £750. Application
forms are available from the end of September
2018 from Student Services or online at
sparsholt.ac.uk through our Money Matters
page – please fill one in so we can look at your
circumstances and help wherever possible.
PARKING
If you prefer to bring your car to College, student
parking is available onsite. Parking is limited at
Winchester University Halls of Residence so
students living there may find it easier to park their
cars here at Sparsholt and use public transport in
the week, collecting their cars at the weekend.
96 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
ANDOVER
Newbury
A342
Upper Clatford
Abbotts Ann
A303
Leckford
Wherwell
A343
A3057
A3057
A30
Nether Wallop
Stockbridge
King’s Somborne
RomseyA27
A3090
Crawley
Littleton
Sparsholt Village
B3049
B3049
B3420
Kings Worthy
South Wonston
MicheldeverB3420
Popham
London
OvertonWhitchurch
Cheriton
Itchen Abbas
Morestead
Twyford
Colden Common
Southampton
WINCHESTER
UNIVERSITY CENTRE
SPARSHOLT
M3
12
M3
7A30
Basingstoke
B3048
B3400
B3404
B3047
B3046
New Alresford
B3335
A272
A272
A30A33
9
HurstbourneTarrent
Tangley
HurstbournePriors
A34
A303
A31
FIND US
SPARSHOLT.AC.UK 01962 776441 97
A
C
E
F
B
Access to Land-based Studies
Programme 16
Accommodation Fees 94
Accreditation of
Prior Learning (APL) 95
Animal Management - BSc (Hons) 30 Animal Management
Student Profile 21Animal Management and Applied
Science - FdSc 26Animal Management Centre 22Animal Management Facilities 22Animal Management 18Animal Management
Industry Links 20Animal Management Research 23Animal Management Staff Experts 24Applied Animal Behaviour
- BSc (Hons) Top-up 32Applied Aquaculture and
Sports Fisheries - MSc 68Applied Zoo Biology - MSc 36Applying to Sparsholt 15Aquaculture and Fisheries
Management - BSc (Hons) 66
Bursary -
University Centre Sparsholt 95 Progressing Sparsholt Students
- Aim Higher 95
Campus Facilities 06Careers Advice 12Counselling 12
Enhanced Learning Credits 95Equestrian Performance
Management - BSc (Hons) 48Equestrian Performance
Management - FdSc 46Equine Behaviour, Performance
and Training - MSc 52Equine Performance Management
Facilities 42Equine Performance Management
Industry Links 40Equine Performance Management
Student Profile 41Equine Performance Management
Research 44Equine Performance Management
Staff Experts 45Equine Science - BSc (Hons) 50
Facilities on Campus 06Fees - Accommodation 94Finance and Fees 94Financial Support 95Fisheries, Aquaculture and Marine
Industry Links 56Fisheries, Aquaculture and Marine
Facilities 58
Fisheries, Aquaculture and Marine
Research 60Fisheries, Aquaculture and Marine
Staff Experts 61
98 UNIVERSITY CENTRE SPARSHOLT
H
L
S
T
M
V
O
Q
P
R
U
W
Z
Horticulture Industry Links 72Horticulture Facilities 74Horticulture Staff Experts 77Horticulture with Plantsmanship
and Design - BSc (Hons) Top-up 80Horticulture with Plantsmanship
and Design FdSc 78
International Students 13
Library 07
Maintenance Loans 95Marine Ecology and
Conservation – FdSc 64Mature Students 13
On-site Accommodation 13
Parking 96
QAA 11
Recognition of Prior
Learning (RPL) 95
Sports Centre 06Sports Fisheries and
Aquaculture - FdSc 62Student Accommodation 13Student Life 08Student Services 12Support 12
Transport 96Tuition Fees 94Tutorial Support 12
UCAS Institution Code 15University of Portsmouth 11
University of Winchester Halls
of Residence 13
Veterinary Nursing Centre 22
Veterinary Nursing Science -
FdSc 28
Welcome 03Which Degree? 10 Wildlife Ecology and Conservation
Facilities 86 Wildlife Ecology and Conservation
Industry Links 84 Wildlife Ecology and Conservation
- BSc (Hons) 92
Wildlife Ecology and Conservation
- FdSc 90
Wildlife Ecology and Conservation
Research 88 Wildlife Ecology and Conservation
Staff Experts 89 Wildlife Ecology and Conservation
Student Profile 85
Zoo Biology - BSc (Hons) Top-up 34
Zoo Licence 18
I
Please Note – Course ConditionsThe information contained in this prospectus is correct as far as can be ascertained at the time of
publication. You are advised to enquire about any amendments or alterations which may affect your
particular course when you make your application.
While University Centre Sparsholt will make every effort to provide all courses as planned, it is obliged to
reserve the right to cancel a course, amend course delivery or reduce the student numbers. Any offer of
a place is conditional on University Centre Sparsholt being able to provide the course and, in the unlikely
event that it is not able to do so, applicants will be informed individually and the offer will lapse. In such
circumstances, it is usual for a student to be offered a place on a similar or related course or given advice
on the nearest alternative course available.
99 SPARSHOLT.AC.UK 01962 776441 SPARSHOLT.AC.UK
Sparsholt, Winchester Hampshire SO21 2NF
01962 776441 sparsholt.ac.uk
Stay Social
OPEN Wednesday 26 April 2017 4pm - 7pm
Thursday 22 June 2017 4pm - 7pm
Saturday 14 October 2017 10am - 2pm
Saturday 18 November 2017 10am - 2pm
Saturday 3 February 2018 10am - 2pm
Saturday 10 March 2018 10am - 2pm
Wednesday 25 April 2018 4pm - 7pm
Thursday 21 June 2018 4pm - 7pm
Pre-register at sparsholt.ac.uk