Course description
Learn about companion animals and ways to support their health and wellbeing, with our BSc (Hons) Animal Science (Pet Behaviour and Welfare) degree at ARU Writtle.
With pet ownership levels in the UK rising in recent years, there’s increased demand for services such as professional trainers and behaviourists.
Our course combines elements of animal management and animal science, with modules covering behaviour and nutrition, as well as health, reproduction and biochemistry.
As a student at ARU Writtle, you’ll be taught by subject-specialist staff, and benefit from campus facilities including dedicated canine and equine centres, a small animal unit and a working farm. You'll take part in animal handling practicals involving work with a range of domesticated and captive animal species, as well as laboratory classes.
Throughout your course, there’s the chance to join ‘behind the scenes’ trips and other experiences.
Our degree course is recognised by the Animal Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC). As a graduate, you’ll be ready to work as an animal trainer, animal training instructor, animal behaviour technician or clinical animal behaviourist. Yu can also apply for provisional membership of the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors.
Upcoming start dates
Suitability - Who should attend?
For information on admission requirements, please contact the provider.
Training Course Content
Year One
Core modules
- Professional Skills for the Animal Industry (30 credits)
- Animal Biology (30 credits)
- Ethics of Animal Use (15 credits)
- Introduction to Biochemistry (15 credits)
- Animal Husbandry (15 credits)
- Ecology and Evolution (15 credits)
Year Two
Core modules
- Research Methods (15 credits)
- Commercial and Professional Skills for Animal Science (15 credits)
- Behaviour (15 credits)
- Animal Health Science (15 credits)
- Professional Practice and Legislation (15 credits)
- Nutritional Biochemistry (15 credits)
- Reproduction and Development (15 credits)
- Applied Behaviour and Training (15 credits)
Year Three
Core modules
- Capstone Project (30 credits)
- Applied Nutrition and Feeding (15 credits)
- Genetics and Genomics (15 credits)
- Clinical Animal Behaviour (15 credits)
- Advanced Animal Health Science (15 credits)
- Applied Behaviour and Animal Welfare (15 credits)
- Developing Clinical Practice (15 credits)
Course delivery details
- BSc (Hons) | 3 Years or 4 Years with a Foundation Year
- CertHE | 1 Year
- DipHE | 2 Years
Modules are subject to change and availability.
Assessment
We'll assess you in a number of ways including practical assessments with companion and zoo animals, farm livestock and horses, examinations – both multiple choice and essay questions, presentations – both individually and in small groups, essays and technical reports, assessed seminars, case studies, experimental work and laboratory reports, poster presentations, debates, and your final-year dissertation.
Why choose Writtle University College
Ranked Top University-Sector Institution in East Anglia for overall student satisfaction!
*Based on NSS 2022 Based on Taught Data
Beautiful rural campus situated close to the city of Chelmsford, 40 minutes from London and the coast.
Expenses
- UK student fees - £9250 per year
- Intearnational student fees – £15,900 per year
Continuing Studies
Careers
Our Animal Science (Pet Behaviour and Welfare) degree is recognised by the Animal Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC). It prepares you to work as an:
- animal trainer
- animal training instructor
- animal behaviour technician
- clinical animal behaviourist.
You could also consider roles in related fields, with previous graduates finding success working in animal nutrition, animal welfare officer roles, quarantine officer roles, animal health inspection, nutrition company sales, and veterinary pharmaceutical and equipment supplies. You might also progress to vet school.
Graduation doesn't have to be the end of your time with us. You might decide to stay at ARU and study a Masters degree, such as our MSc Animal Welfare and Conservation.
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Welcome to Writtle College! Writtle College, a further education provider, now part of ARU, is located at the ARU Writtle campus on the outskirts of Chelmsford, Essex. We offer a wide range of exciting courses in land-based, creative and sports...