ICTQual Level 7 Diploma in Zoo Management and Animal Keeping

The ICTQual Level 7 Diploma in Zoo Management and Animal Keeping is the highest vocational qualification in this pathway, designed for professionals aspiring to lead at the global level in zoo operations, animal welfare, and conservation governance. This advanced program builds on the knowledge gained at Level 6, equipping learners with strategic expertise to manage complex international projects, influence policy, and drive innovation in animal care and biodiversity protection.

Learners will explore advanced study units such as global zoo governance, behavioural science innovation, genetic resource management, and integration of zoo programs with field conservation. The diploma emphasizes leadership in international zoo networks, preparing graduates to collaborate across borders, evaluate global strategies, and implement sustainable practices that align with international standards.

This qualification highlights the evolving role of modern zoos as centers for research, education, and conservation partnerships. Learners will gain the ability to design and lead global initiatives, manage large‑scale operations, and contribute to international wildlife strategies.

By completing this diploma, participants will be prepared for senior executive positions in zoos, wildlife parks, and conservation organizations worldwide. It also serves as a pathway into specialized professional training and long‑term leadership roles in global zoo management and animal keeping.

Course overview

Level 7 Diploma in Zoo Management and Animal Keeping

To enrol in ICTQual Level 7 Diploma in Zoo Management and Animal Keeping, learner must meet the following entry requirements:

  • Age Requirement:Learners must be at least 21 years old at the time of enrollment.
  • Educational Background:Completion of the ICTQual Level 6 Diploma in Zoo Management and Animal Keeping or an equivalent advanced vocational qualification is required. Learners should demonstrate strong academic and practical knowledge of zoo operations, animal welfare, and international conservation practices.
  • Professional Experience:Significant professional or supervisory experience in zoos, wildlife parks, animal sanctuaries, or conservation organizations is essential. Experience in leadership, governance, welfare auditing, or international collaboration will support progression into this advanced qualification.
  • 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 projects, and international collaboration tasks.

This qualification, the ICTQual Level 7 Diploma in Zoo Management and Animal Keeping, consists of 6 mandatory units.

  1. Global Strategic Leadership in Zoo Management
  2. Innovations in Reproductive and Genetic Technologies
  3. Advocacy and Policy Influence in Conservation Breeding
  4. Addressing Global Wildlife Conflicts through Zoo Programs
  5. Ethics and Philosophy of Captive Wildlife Representation
  6. Capstone Project: Designing a Global Zoo Management Initiative

Learning Outcomes for the ICTQual Level 7 Diploma in Zoo Management and Animal Keeping:

Global Strategic Leadership in Zoo Management

  • Demonstrate advanced leadership skills for managing international zoo operations and conservation programs.
  • Apply strategic planning and governance frameworks to align zoo practices with global standards.
  • Identify methods for leading diverse teams across international networks.
  • Recognize the importance of diplomacy and cultural awareness in global zoo leadership.
  • Evaluate leadership strategies to strengthen sustainability and accountability in zoo management.

Innovations in Reproductive and Genetic Technologies

  • Demonstrate expertise in applying advanced reproductive and genetic technologies in captive populations.
  • Apply innovative methods to enhance genetic diversity and reproductive success.
  • Identify ethical considerations in the use of reproductive and genetic interventions.
  • Recognize the role of technology in supporting long‑term species survival.
  • Evaluate the impact of genetic innovations on conservation breeding programs.

Advocacy and Policy Influence in Conservation Breeding

  • Demonstrate skills in influencing policy and advocating for conservation breeding initiatives.
  • Apply strategies to engage stakeholders, governments, and international organizations.
  • Identify opportunities to integrate conservation breeding into global biodiversity policies.
  • Recognize the importance of advocacy in shaping sustainable conservation practices.
  • Evaluate policy outcomes to strengthen conservation breeding effectiveness.

Addressing Global Wildlife Conflicts through Zoo Programs

  • Demonstrate knowledge of global wildlife conflicts and their impact on conservation.
  • Apply zoo‑based strategies to address human‑wildlife conflict and promote coexistence.
  • Identify opportunities for collaboration with communities and conservation organizations.
  • Recognize the importance of education and outreach in conflict resolution.
  • Evaluate zoo programs for effectiveness in mitigating global wildlife conflicts.

Ethics and Philosophy of Captive Wildlife Representation

  • Demonstrate understanding of ethical frameworks in representing wildlife in captivity.
  • Apply philosophical perspectives to evaluate the role of zoos in modern society.
  • Identify ethical challenges in balancing conservation, education, and entertainment.
  • Recognize the importance of transparency and accountability in captive wildlife representation.
  • Evaluate ethical practices to ensure responsible and sustainable zoo operations.

Capstone Project: Designing a Global Zoo Management Initiative

  • Demonstrate ability to design and implement a comprehensive global zoo management project.
  • Apply advanced research, leadership, and policy integration skills to real‑world challenges.
  • Identify innovative solutions for sustainability, welfare, and conservation outcomes.
  • Recognize the importance of collaboration and stakeholder engagement in project success.
  • Evaluate project outcomes to contribute to global zoo management knowledge and practice.

The ICTQual Level 7 Diploma in Zoo Management and Animal Keeping represents the highest vocational achievement in this pathway. It equips learners with global leadership skills, advanced research expertise, and the ability to influence policy and governance in international zoo and conservation networks. Graduates are prepared to take on executive responsibilities, lead global initiatives, and contribute to shaping the future of animal welfare, biodiversity protection, and sustainable zoo operations. This qualification opens pathways into specialized professional training, international advocacy, and senior leadership roles across conservation and wildlife management sectors.

  • Progression to advanced vocational fellowships and professional certifications in global conservation leadership.
  • Opportunities to take on executive director roles in international zoos, wildlife parks, and conservation organizations.
  • Development of expertise in global policy influence, advocacy, and international governance frameworks.
  • Pathways into specialized training in reproductive technologies, genetic resource management, and biodiversity innovation.
  • Opportunities to lead global collaborations across zoo networks, conservation NGOs, and government agencies.
  • Building confidence in managing large‑scale international projects, strategic planning, and crisis governance.
  • Preparation for advanced vocational qualifications focusing on ethics, philosophy, and global conservation strategies.
  • Pathways into structured training in international wildlife conflict resolution and sustainable conservation practices.
  • Opportunities to direct global research projects on animal behaviour, welfare auditing, and biodiversity protection.
  • Development of transferable skills such as diplomacy, strategic leadership, and international communication.
  • Entry into roles supporting global education initiatives, advocacy campaigns, and conservation awareness programs.
  • Pathways into long‑term career routes in international zoo governance, animal keeping, and conservation leadership.

FAQs

  • Learners who have successfully completed the ICTQual Level 6 Diploma or equivalent advanced vocational qualification.
  • Professionals aiming for senior executive roles in zoos, wildlife parks, or international conservation organizations.
  • Individuals seeking expertise in global zoo governance, policy influence, and advanced conservation leadership.
  • Advanced knowledge of global strategic leadership in zoo management and conservation governance.
  • Expertise in reproductive and genetic technologies for sustainable captive population management.
  • Skills in advocacy, policy influence, and conservation breeding initiatives at international levels.

The Level 7 Diploma in Zoo Management and Animal Keeping is a 120 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 7 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 7 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.