Animal
This course offers a fresh approach to animal science, which is achieved by incorporating practical animal management skills into a broad programme of academic study. This three year Animal Science degree will enable students to develop a sound understanding of scientific principles whilst also developing practical competence with a wide range of species. Students are able to focus their studies on different animal species in order to make their degree relevant to a particular career. Previous examples include:
- Zoo animals
- Companion animals
- Wildlife conservation
- Farm livestock
The final year dissertation aims to develop research skills within the context of the animal sector. Graduates will have a broad scientific training, but more importantly will be able to communicate their understanding to others and apply their skills to specific situations.
Course Modules
| STAGE ONE | |
|---|---|
| SEMESTER A | SEMESTER B |
| 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) |
|
| STAGE TWO | |
|---|---|
| SEMESTER A | SEMESTER B |
| Research Methods (15 credits) |
|
| Business Skills (15 credits) |
|
| Behaviour (15 credits) |
Nutritional Biochemistry (15 credits) |
| Animal Health Science (15 credits) |
Reproduction and Development (15 credits) |
| Equine Health and Disease (15 credits) |
|
| Training for Performance (15 credits) |
|
| Pharmacology for Bioveterinary Scientists (15 credits) |
Veterinary Microbiology and Parasitology (15 credits) |
| Evidence Based Practice in Veterinary Bioscience (15 credits) |
|
| Professional Practice and Legislation (15 credits) |
Applied Behaviour and Training (15 credits) |
| Immunology (15 credits) |
Animals in Research (15 credits) |
| STAGE THREE | |
|---|---|
| SEMESTER A | SEMESTER B |
| Capstone Project (30 credits) |
|
| Applied Nutrition and Feeding (15 credits) |
Advanced Animal Health Science (15 credits) |
| Genetics and Genomics (15 credits) |
Applied Behaviour and Animal Welfare (15 credits) |
| Applied Issues in Wildlife Conservation (15 credits) |
Developments in Zoo Management (15 credits) |
| Applied and Clinical Equine Nutrition (15 credits) |
Current Issues in the Equine Industry (15 credits) |
| Complementary Therapies (15 credits) |
Consultancy Project (15 credits) |
Key
| OPTIONAL MODULES |
|---|
Optional modules
Students can select 30 credits of optional modules from stage two and 30 credits of optional modules from stage three.
Note
These are the modules that are offered in this academic year; however, the optional modules available may be subject to change for the following reasons:
- Staff availability - for example the availability of staff to deliver specialist modules, which cannot be delivered by staff who do not have the relevant specialist expertise.
- In response to feedback and annual review processes to ensure we continually enhance our programmes. Changes in these circumstances will usually be made for the benefit of students.
- Student demand - to ensure there are adequate numbers on a module to support the provision of an excellent Learning & Teaching experience.
- The currency of the relevant module. Some modules are specified at a time when they reflect the issues that are currently topical in the subject area. They may have lost that currency by the time that the student is required to exercise the option. In the circumstances, in order to ensure that students are provided with an appropriate learning experience, those modules will be replaced by those which are relevant to the changing nature of the subject area.
The Writtle University College will endeavour to ensure that any impact on students is limited if such changes occur.
Entry Requirements
The following information provides the entry requirements for this particular course.
UCAS Tariff Points
GCE A Levels
Irish Certificate
Scottish Highers
International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma
BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma
BTEC Level 3 Diploma
C & G Level 3 Advanced Technical Extended Diploma (720)
C & G Level 3 Extended Diploma
C & G Level 3 Diploma
Please note:
An equivalent or higher combination of grades to that indicated above will also be accepted.
GCSEs
All applicants must hold a minimum of four GCSE passes at grade C/4 or above to include English, Maths and Science.
Access course
Writtle University College welcomes applicants studying Access to HE Diploma courses. For more information please contact Admissions.
Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL/APEL)
Information about our Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL/APEL) policy can be found on our Higher Education Regulations and Policies page.
Learning & Teaching Methods
The following list shows the variety of learning and teaching methods experienced on this course.
- Animal handling practicals involving work with a wide range of domesticated and captive animal species including pigs
- Tutorials
- Seminars and debates
- Inquiry-based learning
- Visits
- Online quizzes, wikis and activities
- Laboratory practical classes including dissections
Assessment Methods
This course provides a mix of assessment methods 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
- Dissertation
Employment Details
This list of careers below are those that graduates from this programme have been successful in.
- Animal nutritionist and pet food manufacturing
- Nutrition company sales rep
- Veterinary pharmaceutical and equipment supplies
- Animal Welfare Officer
- Companion and zoo animal keepers ( RSPCA, SSPCA, rescue centres, zoos and safari parks)
- RSPCA
- Progression to Vet School
- Post-graduate study
- Zoo animal keeper
- Quarantine officers
- Animal health inspectors e.g. DEFRA
- Independent wildlife agencies (RSPB, Scottish Natural Heritage, Natural England)
- Membership to professional organisations allied to animal science e.g. British Society of Animal Science (BSAS); European Association of Animal Production (EAAP); British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums; Universities Federation for Animal Welfare (UFAW).
Collaborative Working
Join Dr Eleanor Drinkwater and Darren Veitch as they present a series of fascinating, animal packed episodes that culminate in an interactive and enlightening Subject Spotlight focussed on Animal Management & Science.
Find out more