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BSc (Hons), CertHE, DipHE Animal Science (Pet Behaviour and Welfare)

How to apply Come to an Open Day

Introduction

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.

Course options

Course options

Key facts

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Entry requirements

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Fees and paying for university

Facilities

Hands-on learning

Study Animal Science at ARU Writtle and:

  • study on our 150-hectare campus with its specialist animal centres and working farm
  • develop practical competence with a range of species
  • go on 'behind the scenes' trips and privileged experiences throughout your course
  • learn from high-profile subject specialist staff.

Outstanding student support

Join our student community and:

  • learn from experienced tutors, who'll provide encouragement and feedback
  • make full use of facilities including extensive library and IT resources
  • access support, should you need it, with study skills, careers advice, health and wellbeing, and more.

Accreditation

Animal Behaviour and Training Council

This degree course is recognised by the Animal Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC), for the roles of animal trainer, animal training instructor, animal behaviour technician, and clinical animal behaviourist. As a graduate you'll also be eligible for provisional membership of the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors.

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.

Apply now for BSc (Hons), CertHE, DipHE Animal Science (Pet Behaviour and Welfare)

Want to talk to someone?

Do you have a question that we haven't answered so far? Talk to our application experts. You can also ask our Student Ambassadors about life at ARU.

We're here Monday-Thursday 9am-5pm (please note we close at 3.30pm on the first and third Thursday of the month for staff training), and Friday 9am-4.30pm.

Life in Writtle

Close to major cities, ARU Writtle is located on a picturesque 150-hectare campus in the heart of the Essex countryside.

Explore the Writtle campus

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