Diploma of Science (Wildlife Management)

Program Overview

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The Diploma of Science (Wildlife Management) from UniSQ equips students with a comprehensive understanding of wildlife management principles and practices, including biosecurity, conservation, animal welfare, vertebrate pests, and survey techniques. Through specialized training in animal identification, handling, and trapping, as well as practical field experience, students develop the skills necessary for careers in wildlife management and related fields. The program features a compulsory field trip and residential schools, providing students with hands-on learning and networking opportunities.

Program Outline

The Diploma of Science (Wildlife Management) from UniSQ introduces students to the fundamental concepts of biosecurity, conservation, animal welfare, vertebrate pests, and survey techniques to collect, record, and analyze field data. The program aims to equip students with practical field skills through specialized training in animal identification, handling and trapping, safety and bush survival skills, training in 4-wheel driving, camera trapping, and more.

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Objectives:

• Develop a comprehensive understanding of wildlife management principles and practices.
• Acquire practical field skills in wildlife management techniques.
• Gain knowledge in biosecurity, conservation, animal welfare, and vertebrate pest management.
• Prepare students for careers in wildlife management and related fields.

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Outline:

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Program Content:

The program covers a range of topics in wildlife management, including:

• Biosecurity
• Conservation
• Animal welfare
• Vertebrate pests
• Survey techniques
• Field data collection, recording, and analysis
• Animal identification, handling, and trapping
• Safety and bush survival skills
• 4-wheel driving training
• Camera trapping

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Course Schedule:

The program consists of 8 units, including:

• 2 core courses
• 4 major courses in Wildlife Management
• 2 elective courses

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Individual Modules:

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Core Courses:

• Introduction to Wildlife Management
• Wildlife Conservation and Management

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Major Courses in Wildlife Management:

• Animal Identification and Handling
• Wildlife Health and Welfare
• Vertebrate Pest Management
• Wildlife Survey Techniques

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Elective Courses:

• Students can choose from a range of elective courses to complement their studies.

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Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

Students are assessed through a variety of methods, including:

• Assignments
• Quizzes
• Presentations
• Fieldwork reports
• Practical demonstrations

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Assessment Criteria:

Assessments are based on the following criteria:

• Knowledge and understanding of wildlife management concepts
• Application of wildlife management techniques
• Communication and presentation skills
• Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities
• Fieldwork performance

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

The program is delivered through a combination of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures
• Tutorials
• Practical workshops
• Fieldwork
• Online learning

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Faculty:

The program is taught by experienced faculty members with expertise in wildlife management and related fields.

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Unique Approaches:

• The program includes a two-week compulsory field trip as part of the skills training within the Wildlife Management major, involving travel, accommodation, and meal expenses.
• Students have the opportunity to participate in residential schools on campus, where they attend face-to-face lectures and tutorials, gain practical experience, use facilities and specialist equipment, and meet staff and other students.

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Careers:

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Career Paths:

Graduates of the Diploma of Science (Wildlife Management) can pursue careers in a wide range of fields, including:

• Ranger
• Biosecurity officer
• Game management officer
• Pest and weed control officer

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Career Opportunities:

Career opportunities in wildlife management are growing in Australia and internationally as climate change impacts wildlife conservation.

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Other:

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Additional Information:

• The Diploma of Science (Wildlife Management) is a qualification in its own right, but it can also be a pathway to the Bachelor of Science (Wildlife Management).
• Students who have completed a TAFE or qualified private provider qualification may be able to use these qualifications to meet UniSQ's entry requirements.
• Students may be eligible for recognition of prior learning or work experience, which can reduce the number of courses they need to study to finish the program.