BSc (Hons) Animal Therapy

The following information provides the entry requirements for this particular course.

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

Science or Physiotherapy 45 credits at level 3 with a mix of Distinction and Merit in relevant science-based subject to meet the overall UCAS entry tariff.

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.

Other course specific entry requirements

"Writtle University College encourages early disclosure of any specific learning needs, disabilities, medical and/or mental health conditions that you feel may have an effect on your studies. This allows us to discuss these with you and consider reasonable adjustments and support arrangements you may need.

The college takes its health and safety and welfare responsibilities very seriously. Animal Therapy is a physically demanding course which will involve you working in close contact with large and unpredictable animals. Students are encouraged to declare and discuss with college staff, anything that may impact on their ability to safely and fully take part in any of the practical elements of the course."

Applications

Applications will take into consideration

• Your academic profile
• Your practical experience - reference letters

Practical experience

We would like to see evidence of a minimum of

• 150 hours for equine
• 100 hours for canine

Done under the supervision of professional providers ready to vouch for your skills. Ideally the placements are done prior to the interview (letters from the providers, on headed paper, stating the date and length of the placements, the animal handling activities undertook and the skills developed, are to be sent with your application. Alternatively, proof of competition (equine or canine), BHS qualification must be sent for evaluation.

Ideally, these reference letters will be sent alongside your application. If the placements have not been finalised, you can have more time to do so but reference letters must be submitted before 01.07.21. All placements must have been effective before the beginning of the course Placements must be less than three years old to be taken into consideration. We are looking at practical hands-on placements, not observational ones. Applicants could consider:

• For equine: a yard, a riding school, a sanctuary, an equine vet practice.
• For canine: kennels, dog groomer, dog walker, dog day care, RSPCA, Dog trust, small vet practice hydrotherapy centres.

Owning a dog or a horse does not constitute evidence of practical handling.

The acquisition of knowledge and understanding is approached through an emphasis on student-centred learning. The following list shows the variety of learning and teaching methods experienced on this course.

• Lectures
• Tutorials
• Practical work
• Formative and summative coursework
• Case studies
• Clinical practitioner days
• Seminars
• Presentations
• Self-directed learning