BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour and Welfare

The course is delivered at University Centre Myerscough and awarded by the University of Central Lancashire. The course provides students with an ideal opportunity to focus on the issues relating to animal welfare, health, physiology and behaviour. This work is underpinned by current and emerging scientific research.

The course will prepare you for a wide range of careers throughout the animal industry. The first year of the course provides the underpinning knowledge necessary for study in this field. Several of these modules are shared with the Foundation Degree course routes with separate tutorial sessions providing the opportunity for stronger academic and research focus. The themes of animal behaviour and welfare are further developed in the second year of the course. Students will also have the option to choose one module from animals in society, international wildlife conservation or professional practice.

The final year of the course includes the carrying out of a comprehensive industry related research project. The focus in the other modules is on applied research techniques, behavioural ecology and companion animal behaviour.

5 GCSE passes at Grade C (4) or above (including Maths and English or equivalent)

Plus 104 UCAS Tariff points from one or more of the following:

3 A-levels (A2) at C or above

BTEC/C&G Level 3

4 Scottish Highers at C or above

4 Irish Highers at C or above

International Baccalaureate at 24 points

AS levels, BTEC Subsidiary Diploma and Scottish Intermediate 2s may be used to contribute to entry requirements but they are not sufficient for entry on their own. Alternative equivalent qualifications will also be considered positively.

Applicants who believe they may be eligible for Accreditation of Prior Certificated and/or Experiential Learning (APCL/APEL) for certain modules will be considered on an individual basis.

Applicants for whom English is a second language must be able to demonstrate proof of International English Language Testing System (IELTS) at level 6.0 (with no component score lower than 5.5) or equivalent.

All offers may be subject to successful interview.

Laboratory coats are required for practical laboratory sessions. Waterproof clothing for field and farm work and outdoor visits. A black warehouse coat is essential for working on the Animal Centre and can be purchased from the on-line Myerscough Shop. Dark coloured combat trousers are also recommended.

Extra Costs:

Additional costs for items that are essential for the course:

Black Warehouse Coat - £15

Laboratory Coat - £12

Waterproofs and boots £50

Additional costs for opportunities and items that are optional for the course include:

Field Study trip to Shamwari Game Reserve (S. Africa) £3,500

Binoculars £30

You must be able to demonstrate proof of your English language skills by showing that you have a minimum of CEFR level B2 in each of the four components of language learning; reading, writing, listening and speaking. If you are applying with a visa then in most cases, you will require a UKVI version of an authorised test at an approved centre. You can find more information on the Government website. Depending on the test you take, there will be a comparison guide on the test centre website to show which score is required to ensure you meet the B2 CEFR level.  

What careers can you follow?

Graduates will be in a position to apply for posts in the animal and related industries with examples of possible careers including:

Training assistance dogs

Welfare inspectors

Zoological education/research/keeping

Research and development

Local authority/Defra/HM customs animal welfare officers

Pet behaviour advisors