ICTQual Level 6 Diploma in Zoo Management and Animal Keeping

The ICTQual Level 6 Diploma in Zoo Management and Animal Keeping is a high‑level vocational qualification designed for learners seeking senior leadership roles in zoo operations, animal welfare, and global conservation initiatives. Building on the foundations of Level 5, this program provides advanced knowledge and professional skills required to manage complex animal care environments, lead large teams, and implement international standards in zoo management.

Learners will explore strategic topics such as advanced resource management, international welfare compliance, crisis response planning, and research methods in wildlife management. The diploma emphasizes the integration of scientific expertise with ethical leadership, preparing graduates to uphold the highest standards of animal welfare, sustainability, and conservation education.

This qualification also highlights the evolving role of modern zoos as centers for biodiversity protection, research, and public engagement. Learners will gain the ability to design and evaluate conservation programs, manage breeding initiatives, and contribute to global wildlife strategies.

By completing this diploma, participants will be equipped to take on senior management positions in zoos, wildlife parks, and conservation organizations. It also serves as a pathway into higher vocational study and specialized professional training, ensuring long‑term career progression in advanced zoo management and animal keeping.

Course overview

Level 6 Diploma in Zoo Management and Animal Keeping

To enrol in ICTQual Level 6 Diploma in Zoo Management and Animal Keeping, learner must meet the following entry requirements:

  • Age Requirement:Learners must be at least 18 years old at the time of enrollment.
  • Educational Background:Completion of the ICTQual Level 5 Diploma in Zoo Management and Animal Keeping or an equivalent vocational qualification is recommended. Learners should demonstrate advanced knowledge of zoo operations, animal welfare, and conservation practices.
  • Professional Experience:Prior professional or supervisory experience in zoos, wildlife parks, animal sanctuaries, or conservation projects is strongly encouraged. Experience in leadership, welfare auditing, or breeding program management will support progression into advanced study.
  • English Proficiency:Learners must be able to read, write, and communicate effectively in English (or the language of instruction) to engage with advanced course materials, research tasks, and assessments.

This qualification, the ICTQual Level 6 Diploma in Zoo Management and Animal Keeping, consists of 6 mandatory units.

  1. Global Zoo Governance and Policy Integration
  2. Advanced Behavioural Science and Enrichment Innovation
  3. Genetic Resource Management in Captive Populations
  4. Integration of Zoo Programs with Field Conservation
  5. Leadership in International Zoo Networks
  6. Evaluation of Global Zoo Management Strategies

Learning Outcomes for the ICTQual Level 6 Diploma in Zoo Management and Animal Keeping:

Global Zoo Governance and Policy Integration

  • Demonstrate advanced knowledge of international governance frameworks and policy development in zoo management.
  • Apply global standards and accreditation systems to ensure compliance and ethical operations.
  • Identify strategies for integrating local zoo policies with international conservation goals.
  • Recognize the importance of policy alignment in promoting animal welfare and biodiversity protection.
  • Evaluate governance practices to strengthen accountability and transparency in zoo operations.

Advanced Behavioural Science and Enrichment Innovation

  • Demonstrate expertise in analysing animal behaviour to improve welfare and enrichment programs.
  • Apply innovative enrichment techniques to stimulate natural behaviours in captive populations.
  • Identify behavioural indicators of stress, health, and well‑being in diverse species.
  • Recognize the role of behavioural science in designing sustainable habitats and care routines.
  • Evaluate enrichment strategies for effectiveness and long‑term welfare outcomes.

Genetic Resource Management in Captive Populations

  • Demonstrate advanced understanding of genetic diversity and resource management in captive breeding.
  • Apply genetic monitoring tools to maintain healthy populations and prevent inbreeding.
  • Identify ethical considerations in genetic resource use and species preservation.
  • Recognize the importance of genetic databases and record keeping in conservation planning.
  • Evaluate genetic management strategies to support long‑term species survival.

Integration of Zoo Programs with Field Conservation

  • Demonstrate knowledge of linking zoo‑based initiatives with field conservation projects.
  • Apply strategies to support species reintroduction and habitat restoration.
  • Identify opportunities for collaboration between zoos and global conservation organizations.
  • Recognize the importance of integrating education, research, and conservation in zoo programs.
  • Evaluate the impact of zoo‑field partnerships on biodiversity protection.

Leadership in International Zoo Networks

  • Demonstrate skills in leading collaborative projects across international zoo networks.
  • Apply leadership strategies to strengthen partnerships and knowledge exchange globally.
  • Identify opportunities for joint research, conservation, and education initiatives.
  • Recognize the importance of cultural awareness and diplomacy in international collaboration.
  • Evaluate leadership practices to enhance global cooperation in zoo management.

Evaluation of Global Zoo Management Strategies

  • Demonstrate expertise in assessing zoo management practices against international benchmarks.
  • Apply evaluation tools to measure welfare, sustainability, and conservation outcomes.
  • Identify strengths and weaknesses in global zoo operations and propose improvements.
  • Recognize the importance of evidence‑based evaluation in policy and decision‑making.
  • Evaluate long‑term strategies to ensure continuous improvement in global zoo management.

The ICTQual Level 6 Diploma in Zoo Management and Animal Keeping prepares learners for senior leadership roles in zoo operations, animal welfare, and international conservation initiatives. This qualification builds advanced expertise in governance, research, and global collaboration, enabling graduates to contribute to the future of sustainable zoo practices and biodiversity protection. Learners can progress into higher vocational diplomas, specialized professional training, and international leadership pathways that expand both career opportunities and global impact in animal care and conservation.

  • Progression to ICTQual Level 7 Diploma in Zoo Management and Animal Keeping for advanced vocational study.
  • Opportunities to take on senior executive roles in zoos, wildlife parks, and global conservation organizations.
  • Development of expertise in international governance, policy integration, and compliance with global standards.
  • Pathways into specialized training in genetic resource management and advanced captive breeding programs.
  • Opportunities to lead international collaborations and partnerships across global zoo networks.
  • Building confidence in managing large‑scale operations, strategic planning, and crisis governance.
  • Preparation for advanced vocational qualifications focusing on research, innovation, and conservation leadership.
  • Pathways into structured training in global wildlife management and sustainable conservation practices.
  • Opportunities to direct research projects on behavioural science, welfare auditing, and biodiversity strategies.
  • Development of transferable skills such as strategic leadership, diplomacy, and international communication.
  • Entry into roles supporting global education initiatives, visitor engagement, and conservation awareness campaigns.
  • Pathways into long‑term career routes in international zoo governance, animal keeping, and conservation leadership.

FAQs

  • Learners who have successfully completed the ICTQual Level 5 Diploma or equivalent vocational qualification.
  • Individuals aiming for senior leadership roles in zoos, wildlife parks, or international conservation organizations.
  • Professionals seeking advanced expertise in global zoo governance, welfare compliance, and conservation policy.
  • Advanced knowledge of global zoo governance, policy integration, and international standards.
  • Expertise in behavioural science, enrichment innovation, and welfare evaluation.
  • Skills in genetic resource management and captive population sustainability.

The Level 6 Diploma in Zoo Management and Animal Keeping is a 60 Credits programme designed to be completed in full-time study over this period, with a focus on both theoretical learning and practical application.

ICTQual Level 6 Diploma in Zoo Management and Animal Keeping is offered in various formats, including online, in-person, or a combination of both. Participants can choose the format that best fits their schedule and learning preferences. But final decision is made by ATC.

Yes, ICTQual Level 6 Diploma in Zoo Management and Animal Keeping of 6 mandatory assessments. These assessments are designed to evaluate participants’ comprehension of course material and their capacity to apply concepts in practical situations. It is mandatory to pass all assessments to achieve this qualification.