Animal Behaviour and Welfare BSc (Hons)

Study, with a biological approach, the fascinating scientific discipline of animal behaviour and welfare.

Course overview

On this course, you will explore the ways in which the biological sciences are applied to animal behaviour and welfare, in what is an exciting and rapidly-changing field.

An animal’s welfare can range from very poor to excellent at any point in its life, and it is important that we understand the biological needs of different types of animals.

This knowledge enables us to adopt an evidence-based approach to the management of animals under human care, such as domestic pets, equine, assistance and service animals, and those on farms or in zoos and sanctuaries.

Why study this course with us?

This course offers an integrated, scientific approach to the study of the theory and practice of animal behaviour and welfare, and the wider role of this discipline within the biological sciences.

Teaching methods

You will be taught via a mixture of classroom-/lecture theatre-based sessions, supplemented with some practicals and informative field trips (depending on modules taken).

Assessment

Assessments are designed to encourage both academic skills and skills valued in the workplace, and include a combination of coursework and end-of-module examinations. Coursework includes (but is not limited to) essays, reports, data processing and oral presentations.

Job prospects

Previous graduates have gone on to do a range of job roles, including working as zoo keepers, animal welfare officers, education officers, research assistants, or working with animal- or conservation-related charities. Transferable employability skills also equip our graduates for a wide range of graduate careers outside of the animal sector. Some graduates also go on to do postgraduate study, including at Master's and PhD level.

Careers service

The University has an award winning Careers and Employability service which provides a variety of employability-enhancing experiences; through the curriculum; through employer contact and through tailored group sessions and individual information, advice and guidance.

Careers and Employability - Student Futures aims to deliver a service which is inclusive, impartial, welcoming, informed and tailored to your personal goals and aspirations, to enable you to develop as an individual and contribute to the business and community in which you will live and work.