Course description
Explore canine health and behaviour, and what therapists can do to improve dogs' wellbeing. Get hands-on experience in our specialist canine centre when you study Canine Therapy Courses at ARU in Writtle.
Our course offers a mix of vocational and academic study that will prepare you for a career in the field of canine therapy.
It covers topics such as canine anatomy, physiology and biomechanics, as well as focusing on a Canine Massage course and Canine Hydrotherapy courses
As a Canine Massage course student in Writtle, you’ll use specialist equipment in our Lordship Canine Centre, including a hydrotherapy pool and underwater treadmill. You’ll gain recognised skills in hydrotherapy as you take part in commercially run sessions with real cases, helping to compile structured care plans for injured or post-operative animals.
There’s also the option to access a professional animal massage qualification (extra cost involved).
Our highly qualified teaching team includes experienced veterinary physiotherapists and veterinary surgeons.
As a graduate of our Dog Therapy course, you’ll have the knowledge and skills to run your own business or work as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Please note that this Dog Therapy course is subject to validation and some details, including modules, may change.
Upcoming start dates
Suitability - Who should attend?
For information on admission requirements, please contact the provider.
Training Course Content
Year One
Core modules
- Introduction to Canine Physiotherapy Assessment (30 credits)
- Anatomy and Physiology with Applied Surface Anatomy (Canine) (30 credits)
- Canine Nutrition, Behaviour, Ethics and Welfare (30 credits)
- Professional Skills and Personal Development (15 credits)
- Components Affecting Canine Performance and Wellbeing (15 credits)
Year Two
Core modules
- Canine Hydrotherapy and First Aid* (15 credits)
- Introduction to Manual Therapies and Remedial Exercise (Canine)
- Exercise Physiology (Canine) (15 credits)
- Research Methods (15 credits)
- Introduction to Canine Biomechanics (15 credits)
- Functional Anatomy (Canine) (15 credits)
- Canine Health, Disease and Pain Management (15 credits)
Year Three
Core modules
- Capstone Project (30 credits)
- Applied Massage, Rehabilitation and Hydrotherapy Techniques (Canine)* (30 credits)
- Business and Client Management (15 credits)
- Applied Clinical Anatomy (Canine) (15 credits)
- Veterinary Pathophysiology and Biomechanics (Canine) (30 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 your progress in a number of ways including assignments, reports, written examinations, observed structured practical examinations, observed structured clinical examinations, oral presentations, and debates, and your dissertation (Capstone Project).
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
- International student fees – £15,900 per year
Continuing Studies
Careers
Our BSc (Hons) Canine Therapy is a 'two in one' qualification as it includes a vocational award. This means that as a graduate, you'll be ready to work as a therapist – either independently or as part of a clinical team.
As the course has a focus on hydrotherapy and massage, you may choose to work in these popular areas.
You may find yourself helping with post-surgery recovery, managing chronic conditions, increasing the range of motion and balance in senior patients, enhancing the performance of competing athletes, helping with a weight control programme or improving the general wellbeing of family pets.
Alternatively you could consider research assistant posts, lecturing and health advisory roles.
Graduation doesn't have to be the end of your time with us. You might decide to at ARU and study for a Masters, 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...