The Course

The health and welfare of companion, experimental and farm animals is of increasing public concern, resulting in a range of career opportunities in Animal and Public Health. This course examines in detail the biology of animals and disease and provides students with the scientific principles and applications of animal health and welfare. Compulsory modules include Companion Animal Management, Large Animal Management, Introduction to Behaviour and Welfare, Principles of Animal Health, Companion Animal Studies, Animal Welfare and Disease Controls, Integrated Health Management and Animal Disease Sciences. Business modules are also available. Optional modules include Farm Animal Production Science, Animal Improvement and Bio-ethics, Advanced Equine Reproduction, Entrepreneurial Marketing for Animal Health, and Wildlife Care and Conservation All main groups of farm animals are represented on our farm as well as a developing range of exotic and companion animals. All students will carry out an animal-based investigational project in their final year, looking at an aspect of health, behaviour or welfare.

The Placement

During your year-long industrial placement you will learn to apply your developing skills and gain experience to underpin subsequent studies, and explore the wide range of career options available. With a clearer idea of your future career in mind, after placement you will be able to choose modules to help you further develop the skills you need.

The Future

There are opportunities in animal health with companies associated with the development, and marketing of animal health products. Nutritional products and special diet formulations are being developed for animals with health problems, and knowledge of both animal health and nutrition equips graduates for careers in this area. Welfare and food safety concerns have led to job opportunities in Quality Assurance, with schemes being developed by the RSPCA, supermarkets and the farming industry. Or why not consider a career in animal welfare and the management of collection animals, or in the dynamic pet care industry?