FRESH from the success of last month’s Higher Education graduation ceremony, Wiltshire College & University Centre is already looking ahead to the next chapter – with a dynamic new range of Higher Education courses launching for 2026.
At the heart of the refreshed offer are two brand-new programmes: Animal Conservation and Countryside Management and Sustainable Business Management.
Both courses have been developed in close collaboration with industry partners and are designed to meet growing demand for skills in conservation, land and habitat management, and sustainable business leadership.
Higher National Diploma (HND) in Animal Conservation and Countryside Management
A new course for 2026, the two-year programme provides a strong foundation in animal biology, ecology and habitat management, supported by practical fieldwork and industry placements. Students will develop the skills needed for roles in wildlife conservation, habitat restoration and countryside management.
Lauren Meek, Lecturer in Animal Care, said: “What excites me most about launching this course is the opportunity to inspire the next generation of conservation professionals. Students won’t just learn theory – they’ll actively contribute to habitat management and conservation projects, gaining skills that make a real difference for wildlife and the environment.”
Higher National Diploma (HND) in Sustainable Business Management
This addition is delivered at our Business School in Lackham and builds the skills needed to lead responsible and resilient organisations. Students will gain a strong foundation in sustainability, corporate social responsibility (CSR) and ethical leadership, supported by real-world learning through live projects and industry guest speakers.
Martin Chappell, Lecturer in Business, said: “This programme places sustainability at the heart of the business learning rather than treating it as an optional topic. Students will study sustainability, ethics and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) from day one, while also developing core business and management skills.”
We’ve worked closely with employers across Wiltshire to ensure every programme – not just the new additions – reflects current and future industry needs. For 2026, all Higher Education courses have been refreshed, with curriculum teams selecting units that directly align with local employer demand. This includes a refreshed syllabus for the Early Years Professional Leadership course and specialist Cyber Security units within the Computing programme, alongside employer-informed updates across the wider HE offer.
Many programmes are validated by leading UK universities including Bournemouth, Coventry and Oxford Brookes, reinforcing the College’s long-standing commitment to delivering high-quality university-level study across Wiltshire.
Nicola Dew, Higher Education and Quality Manager, said: “We’re committed to delivering high quality Higher Education (HE) courses which meet the needs of our communities and the local economy. Our HE offer for 2026 focuses on delivering to our core strengths and developing the future Wiltshire workforce.”
Higher Education pathways for 2026 include:
- Motorsport Technology and Motorsport Engineering
- Film Production and Cinematography
- Engineering (Electrical or Mechanical)
- Computing
- Crime and Criminal Justice
- Early Years Professional Leadership
- Healthcare Professions’ Support
- Animal Conservation and Countryside Management (NEW)
- Sustainable Business Management (NEW)
Whether stepping into Higher Education for the first time or balancing study with work and family commitments, many of our programmes offer flexible routes to success.
With strong industry links, specialist teaching, and a clear focus on employability, we continue to champion the high-level skills that help students progress into rewarding careers or further study.
Applications for 2026 entry are open now.
