With all kinds of animal courses, from zoology and environmental science to human-animal interaction and animal behaviour studies, Hartpury University helps people turn their passion for wildlife and agriculture into a fulfilling and empowering career.
SoGlos shares 13 interesting jobs that an animal degree from Gloucestershire's specialist education provider could lead to, spanning research roles to hands-on work with animals.
Animal welfare inspector
Animal welfare inspectors investigate public reports of cruelty and neglect, usually by travelling to the premises and interviewing the owner.
This role works closely with animal rescue officers to collect and rescue vulnerable animals that are sick, injured or have been stranded, too.
Clinical animal behaviourist
For those wanting to work closely with pets and specialise in diagnosing and improving behavioural issues, Hartpury offers an animal behaviour and training (clinical) course.
As a qualified clinical animal behaviourist, day-to-day tasks involve using science-based methods to develop treatment plans and working with owners and vets to assess behavioural problems — as well as providing preventative advice for early intervention when pets present anxiety or stress through aggression.
Dog trainer
If perfect pooches are your game, life as a dog trainer could be just the ticket — and there's a course focused on canines at Hartpury to help get you there.
Think basic obedience training, helping owners with behaviour management and creating happy households; as well as potentially branching out to specialised training of police dogs and assistance companions, too.
Zookeeper
What almost every child dreams of being when they grow up...
It could become reality with the help of Hartpury — the zoology degree covers the theory and practical application needed for a career protecting the biodiversity of our planet through zoo conservation projects.
Wildlife conservation officer
Also responsible for protecting wildlife, a wildlife conservation officer conducts surveys and research to track animal populations, prevent poaching activity and save endangered species.
The role also involves managing and restoring natural habitats, enforcing wildlife protection laws, engaging with local communities to educate the public on conservation and assisting with research projects.
Laboratory technician
Approaching animal care through a more scientific lens, working as a laboratory technician can offer the experience of understanding how our animal kingdom grows, survives and thrives.
The veterinary bioscientists and brand-new biological sciences courses at Hartpury are great for those passionate about animal biology and curious about health and disease — with each programme designed to expand skills inside the lab and prepare you for an exciting career.
Animal collection manager
Animal collection managers oversee the care and welfare of animal collections in zoos, aquariums, safari parks and wildlife centres.
Responsibilities in this role include ensuring animals are receiving appropriate nutrition, enrichment and veterinary care; supervising animal care staff; overseeing breeding and conservation programmes; and ensuring enclosures meet the needs of the various species that call each institution home.
Scientific communications officer
Those with a passion for communicating and rallying for a cause might find themselves enjoying a fulfilling career as a scientific communications officer for a variety of different organisations.
Find new ways to communicate important scientific research into clear and engaging content for a range of audiences, through print publications, websites and in-person events.
Animal rehabilitator
An ideal role for caring and empathetic individuals, animal rehabilitators are dedicated to helping injured or sick animals.
One day you could be rescuing and providing emergency care, the next you could be overseeing recovery plans and preparing a rescued animal for release — the full cycle is as rewarding as it sounds!
Livestock engagement officer
Livestock engagement officers work to build positive relationships between livestock farmers, agricultural organisations and the wider local community.
Some of the things they cover include farmer support and outreach activities; public education and awareness building through organising events and workshops; and co-ordinating with media outlets through writing articles and creating content.
Instructor for guide dogs for the blind
Another empowering and rewarding role that can be obtained through studying an animal degree at Hartpury is a guide dog instructor.
You'll work with charities and organisations that breed and train guide dogs for individuals who are blind or visually impaired and teach handlers how to work with their new best friend and lifeline.
Scientific officer within a charitable organisation
Work with organisations such as the RSPCA or the Blue Cross and play a key role in advancing their operations by supporting scientific research, data collection and evidence-based initiatives.
Conduct scientific research, write up reports, collaborate with other scientists, share knowledge, create materials to support public awareness and integrate scientific findings and approaches into the charity's vital work.
Veterinary pharmaceutical sales
Another great avenue for those who are looking to get into the corporate side of animal care and science is becoming a veterinary pharmaceutical sales representative.
Tasks include marketing, smashing sales targets, building relationships with veterinary professionals, educating veterinarians and clinic staff on new medications and how to properly administer them, too.
