Human Animal Interaction (Taught)

The field of human-animal interaction has grown substantially over the last few years. Research highlights how these interactions can improve mental well-being, social connections, and even physical health. It can also help us address the biodiversity crisis.
As awareness of these benefits grows, so does the demand for professionals in animal-assisted therapy and related careers (source: CABI Digital Library 2022).
This Masters in Human-Animal Interaction explores research methods and approaches to studying our relationships with non-human animals. You'll look at human-animal interactions across various contexts such as:

• pet owning,

• animal-assisted interventions,

• zoos,

• farms,

• conservation.

You'll study the importance of both human and animal behaviour in shaping human-animal interaction. The associated ethical issues are also covered. You’ll develop skills to critically evaluate methods for measuring attitudes, interactions and their outcomes.

Learn from experts
Our MSc/MA Human-Animal Interaction is taught by experts whose specialisms include:

• the study of animal behaviour and animal welfare,

• animal-assisted activities and interventions,

• human and animal coexistence.

You can join our vibrant research community for weekly seminars and specialist discussions. You’ll have access to state-of-the-art psychology labs and a dedicated study suite.

Gain real-world experience through placements and projects
As part of the Human-Animal Interaction Masters, you can undertake tailored placements to align with your career goals. Examples include:

• Working within organisations in therapeutic or educational settings.

• Assisting research projects in psychology at Stirling or other institutions.

• Engaging with voluntary organisations like the SSPCA, industry partners or businesses such as canine or equine behaviourist organisations. A popular past placement has been with the animal assisted intervention organisation ‘Paws for Progress’ which has close connections with Stirling. Other examples are Equine Behaviour Affiliation and Stirling Dog Behavioural Centre.

• Communicating science to the public at venues like Edinburgh Zoo or Blair Drummond Safari Park.

Choose your path in human-animal interaction research
This course covers the fundamentals of research methods. It focuses on their application to human-animal interactions.
You can study Human-Animal Interaction as either an MA or MSc:

• MA - focuses on qualitative research methods.

• MSc - covers both qualitative and quantitative research methods.

All students take a Qualitative Data Analysis module. MSc students also take Quantitative Analysis Methods in Psychological Research. MA students choose from options like Child Development, Autism and Neurodevelopmental Conditions, or Environmental Psychology.

A range of assessment methods are used across the programme, including:

• research proposals

• critical reviews

• a logic model

• reflective journals for placements

• oral presentations

• popular science articles

• dissertation