The Course

There is greater awareness among the general public of issues involved with the welfare of companion, performance and farm animals. This course enables those interested in the behaviour and welfare of animals to study at degree level without being required to study the broader animal health sciences in detail. However, this course will prepare graduates for a range of careers in the areas of Animal Welfare and Management. This course examines animal biology as it relates to the behaviour and welfare of animals. There is also an opportunity to study ecology as it relates to animal habitats. The core modules studied in the first and second year will include Companion Animal Management, Large Animal Management, Introduction to Behaviour and Welfare, Principles of Animal Health, Companion Animal Behaviour and Welfare, Introduction to Ecology, Habitat Management and Wildlife Care and Conservation. The final part of the course will combine core modules such as: Companion Animal Health and Welfare, Applied Ecology and Integrated Animal Welfare Case Studies. Optional modules include Farm Animal Production Science and Bio-ethics, and Advanced Equine Reproduction. Students carry out an animal-based investigational project in their final year, looking at an aspect of animal behaviour or welfare. All main groups of farm animals are represented on our farm as well as a developing range of exotic and companion animals.

The Placement

During the year long placement, which occurs in year three, there will be opportunities to work in a range of placements; examples include animal collections (including zoos), animal training and conservation projects.

The Future

The rise in awareness of animal welfare and behaviour issues has opened up more employment opportunities in the animal sector. Organisations that house animals are becoming more aware of the need for employees to have a sound understanding of animal welfare and behaviour. Welfare organisations are expanding and nutrition and pharmaceutical companies have opportunities suitable for graduates with a sound welfare education. Many graduates move into higher education as lecturers or researchers and others choose further postgraduate study.