Conservation Medicine Course

Foundations of Conservation Medicine and One Health

You’ll begin by exploring the principles of Conservation Medicine and the One Health approach, examining how human, animal, and environmental health intersect. Teaching introduces the historical and ethical foundations of One Medicine, alongside modern challenges such as habitat loss, climate change, and zoonotic disease. This module sets a shared framework for understanding why integrated approaches are essential in conservation and global health contexts.

Wildlife Health, Conservation, and Anti-Poaching

This module focuses on the medical and conservation challenges faced by wildlife in Southern Africa. Learning explores rhino conservation, anti-poaching strategies, and the role of working dogs in conservation efforts. Through field visits and case studies, you’ll examine how veterinary medicine, technology, and security intersect to protect endangered species.

Zoonotic Disease and Human–Animal Interfaces

Working at the intersection of species brings unique clinical risks. This section explores common African zoonoses, venomous animals, and wildlife-related injuries, alongside approaches to prevention, assessment, and treatment. Teaching highlights how disease transmission occurs at the human–animal interface and how clinicians adapt practice to reduce risk in field environments.

Survival, Safety, and Working in the African Bush

This module explores the practical realities of operating in remote bush environments. Learning includes survival principles, food and water safety, navigation, and situational awareness in the field. You’ll examine how environmental conditions influence risk, decision-making, and operational planning when working far from conventional healthcare infrastructure.

Wildlife Immobilisation and Field Veterinary Practice

You’ll explore the principles of wildlife immobilisation, pharmacology, and health checks, gaining insight into how large animals are safely managed in the field. Teaching examines both the clinical considerations and ethical responsibilities involved in wildlife intervention, supported by live demonstrations and supervised practical experience where appropriate.

Remote Community Healthcare and Indigenous Perspectives

This module focuses on healthcare delivery within remote communities, with visits to the N/a’an ku sê Lifeline Clinic serving indigenous San populations. Learning explores primary care in resource-limited settings, including infectious diseases such as TB and HIV, rural outreach, and culturally sensitive care. Case studies highlight how community health, conservation, and social systems are deeply connected.

Reflection, Integration, and Real-World Application

Throughout the course, facilitated reflection and discussion allow you to integrate learning across human, animal, and environmental health. This final module focuses on translating experience into future practice, helping you identify how Conservation Medicine principles apply to your own career — whether in clinical medicine, veterinary work, conservation projects, or global health initiatives.