Applied Animal Science (Top-up)

The course is delivered at University Centre Myerscough and awarded by the University of Lancashire. The course provides students with an ideal opportunity to focus on Applied Animal Science. This work is underpinned by current and emerging scientific research and the course will prepare students for a wide range of careers throughout the animal industry. The course includes the carrying out of a comprehensive industry related research project.

Research Project (Double Module)

The aims of this double-weighted module is to equip students with the ability to understand and define clearly a problem to be solved and extract relevant material from a literature survey. Also to develop the ability to design and undertake an original investigation and to further develop the ability to present, analyse and interpret results. Students should also develop the ability to present a coherent, critical account of the work and how it relates to that of others; develop management skills; achieve a measure of independence and integrate the different aspects of the course and will be provided with an opportunity to develop a programme of supervised independent research leading to the presentation of a substantial written project.

Behavioural Ecology

This module examines the adaptive value of behaviour to enhance survival by exploiting resources, avoiding predators and maximising reproductive success. This module aims to explore the idea that behaviours are part of strategies to maximise reproductive success. The costs and benefits of alternative strategies to predict optimal strategies will be evaluated. The module will examine various life history strategies in a fluctuating environment and discuss the implausibility of the concept of group selection. General skills objectives of the module are to further develop competence in analytical and critical thinking, communication, numeracy and data analysis, information gathering and time management.

Innovations in Animal Research (Double Module)

This module aims to examine current innovations in animal behavioural, psychological, and physiological research and in the development of practical management strategies across the animal industry. Through a range of research skills and within the critical evaluation of management practices, this module aims to develop fundamental research skills exploring key trends in industry and building on employability skills. Students are expected to carry out a group project of their choice to understand, apply and analyse key trends and to suggest future improvements and recommendations. Furthermore, the module aims to consider subject-specific impacts on normal animal husbandry and management decisions whilst ensuring animal welfare is of an utmost priority. The module aims to investigate and evaluate current industry-specific issues for chosen species including companion, farm, wild and zoo-based individuals whilst developing learner skills in effective communication with peers and industry representatives.

Companion Animal Behaviour

This module aims to explore the evolution and domestication of companion animals.  The ontogeny and importance of behaviour will be discussed. The module will investigate the importance of social behaviour between individuals of the same species and in human/animal interactions.  This module will also explore the causation and control of behavioural problems of companion animals.

Students will complete a variety of assessments including examinations and tests, practical assessments, essays, presentations, reports and group work.