Applied Animal Behaviour Top-up

BSc (Hons)

Duration: Two years part-time via virtual learning environment

Tutor: Kerry Hunt MSc, BSc (Hons),DTLLS, FHEA

How to Apply: Apply direct on our website

Why choose this degree?

Gain the knowledge needed to become a Clinical Animal Behaviourist as the course can be used towards accreditation following graduation.

Combine study and work with this flexible, part-time course.

Develop expertise through an extended animal behaviour dissertation project.

What will I learn?

This course covers a wide range of topics related to animal behaviour, you will study human and animal psychology, consider how physiology impacts on behaviour and develop links between legislation and ethics.

Using an evidence-based approach the evolving relationship between humans and animals is explored in detail including application to developing training techniques.

Utilising techniques developed throughout the course you will design and conduct your own behavioural dissertation study. Previous students have conducted research on:

Impact of scent enrichment on behaviour of reptiles

Effect of noise levels in grooming facilities on dog behaviour and stress levels

Cooperative care doesn’t scare - impact of choice and control on stress levels in dogs during routine nail clipping - Presented at the ISAE Benelux Conference 2022

Investigation into veterinary professionals’ knowledge of cognitive dysfunction syndrome in cats.

UCS is a supporting member of the Animal Behaviour and Training Council

How will I be assessed?

You will showcase your knowledge through a combination of written assignments, case studies, seminar presentations and time constrained assessments. At Level 6 the dissertation module will prove your skills within the field of research and we encourage students to present this work to other organisations.

Where can I go from here?

The course works towards the knowledge elements that are required for certification as a Clinical Animal Behaviourist as identified by the Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour and the Animal Behaviour and Training Council. You can also continue your studies to MSc and PhD level.

Sparsholt students have developed their own businesses focused on behavioural consultations for a range of species including dogs, cats and horses. Others work in the veterinary industry. Several students have progressed on to postgraduate study, one continuing and developing her dissertation project in to a PhD.

Modules covered

Level Six - Year One

Animal Communication Learning and Training

Ethology Domestication and Anthrozoology

Mechanisms of Behaviour

Ethics Welfare and Law

Level Six - Year Two

Human Psychology and Clinical Practise

Dissertation and Data Analysis

Entry Requirements

HND or Foundation Degree

Diploma of Higher Education

In a suitable subject

FdSc Level 5 Veterinary Nursing

Validated by: