Animal Behaviour, Welfare and Conservation

Why Choose This Course?
If you’re passionate about animals there’s never been a better time to prepare for your dream career with this course which covers animal behaviour, ethics and welfare.

You will:
Study zoological science, animal husbandry, animal learning and training, and survey skills for conservation
Take part in work placements to develop practical skills and demonstrate the knowledge and skills they have gained
Have access to a veterinary clinical suite, bespoke training area and Cruft’s standard agility course
Enjoy off-site visits to animal charities, wildlife centres and other industry-related venues

Key Course Features:
Study at Northop campus which boasts 90 acres of natural meadows, woodland, ponds, streams and a diverse range of animal and plant species including orchids, badgers, birds of prey and Great Crested Newts
Develop high-level knowledge of animal behaviour welfare and conservation husbandry and training
Urban and rural study environments - split your study time between the Northop campus set in stunning North Wales countryside and our Wrexham campus, on the edge of the largest town in North East Wales
Excellent links with industry and opportunities to secure work placements which will enhance your career prospects.
Gain experience in a range of practical situations from zoo work and conducting ecological surveys to training assistance dogs
Industry-active staff with specialist academic and practical skills, and experience of working with a range of domestic and wild animals
Top up to a full BSc (Hons) degree in Animal Behaviour, Welfare and Conservation once you’ve completed the foundation degree (further one year of study needed)

YEAR 1 (Level 4)
In this year, you will be introduced to key concepts in animal behaviour, welfare, and conservation which will form the foundation for your entire course. You will gain knowledge and practical experience in animal husbandry. Additionally, you will participate in a work experience placement to become familiar with the animal sector and acquire the practical skills necessary for your chosen career.

MODULES
Professional and Academic Development
Professional Practice 1
Introduction to Ecology
Contemporary Animal Management
Ethics and Welfare
Human-Animal Interaction

YEAR 2 (LEVEL 5)
In this year you will build upon knowledge gained in your first year and develop your understanding of a variety of topics in more detail. You will learn about anatomy and physiology, survey skills for conservation, learning and training. In addition, the second work placement module will allow you to gain further hands on experience in the workplace.

MODULES
Professional Practice 2
Health and Disease
Animal Anatomy and Physiology
Climate Change and Conservation
Learning and Training
Survey Skills for Conservation

Teaching & Assessment
The course comprises a range of modules that are assessed by theoretical and in some cases practical coursework. Types of assessment include, portfolios, posters, practical animal handling and health checks, essays, presentations, seminars, practical exams, written exams and reflective diaries.

TEACHING AND LEARNING

This programme includes a variety of learning and teaching methods in the class, practical settings and sessions delivered within the workplace. These include:

Lectures and demonstrations
Seminars and workshops
Tutorials
Group and project work
Reflective reports
External speakers
Educational visits and study days
Tutor and students led sessions
Critical appraisal
Portfolio development
Work placements
Wrexham University is committed to supporting our students to maximise their academic potential.

We offer workshops and support sessions in areas such as academic writing, effective note-making and preparing for assignments. Students can book appointments with academic skills tutors dedicated to helping deal with the practicalities of university work. Our student support section has more information on the help available.

In terms of particular needs, the University’s Inclusion Services can provide appropriate guidance and support should any students require reasonable adjustments to be made because of a recognised prevailing disability, medical condition, or specific learning difference.