FdSc Canine Studies (Blended Learning) (Online)
Foundation degree
In ((Indicate))
Description
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Type
Foundation degree
Learning activities on this course include lectures, seminars, workshops and practical sessions. Students will be expected to undertake extensive independent study and research to support taught sessions. Students will also have access to Myerscough's virtual learning environment.
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Subjects
- IT
Course programme
- Key Information
- Course Content
- Additional Information
- How to Apply
Course Description:
This Foundation Degree in Canine Studies (blended learning) has been designed for students wishing to undertake a
Higher Education course with a more vocational base, provided by part-time study at a distance from the host educational establishment. Interest in this course has been worldwide as it appeals to a wide range of people, from those already professionally qualified (but who want to gain further knowledge in this subject area); through to people, such as "canine enthusiasts" who want to increase their knowledge base and possibly increase their potential employment opportunities in the future. For some students full-time attendance is not feasible for a variety of reasons and this qualification will help to overcome this barrier to access and participation by providing a combination of on-line learning opportunities with some practical "hands on" sessions at the Myerscough centre.
Prospective students should note that annually 3 x Study Skills workshops will be held at the Myerscough College Preston campus, and attendance is compulsory.
This degree provides an ideal foundation to additional studies, which may then allow progression into the field of behaviour counselling, training and other canine industry opportunities.
COURSE CONTENT:
Year 1
Introduction to Canine Behaviour
This module aims to develop an appreciation of the natural behavioural patterns of dogs and how they are of key importance when determining an animal's welfare requirements. This module will also explore the factors that can influence canine behaviour and examine how these may be adapted.
Canine Ontogeny and Sensory Systems
This module aims to explore how dogs develop, and will discuss the significance of sensory, feeding, predatory, play and social behaviour. Students will also be introduced to the physiological processes that allow dogs to demonstrate a co-ordinated response to both internal and external stimuli.
Canine Learning and Training Theory
Current applied research will be used to develop scientific knowledge in animal behaviour. Students will apply this knowledge to outline training methods in relation to the diverse roles of animals in society and the role of the animal caretaker in forming behavioural responses in the animal.
Work Skills Development
This module provides students with first-hand experience where students will use their industry environment to develop practical and technical skills. Students will record and reflect on their own personal development during the module.
Year 2
Principles of Canine Nutrition (half module)
The main aim of this half module is to develop a broad understanding of the biological and biochemical principles which underlie canine nutrition.
Introduction to Pharmacology (half module)
This half module aims to provide an introduction to physiology and the principles of pharmacology. Aspects such as behavioural modification, reproductive manipulation and disease control and prevention will be some of the areas explored.
Canine Breeding, Health and Management
During this module students will develop a broad understanding of the biological principles which underpin canine breeding. Furthermore, students will explore how these principles and developments may be applied to practical canine management with due consideration to commercial, health, environmental and welfare factors.
Business and Entrepreneurism
This module will evaluate entrepreneurship and the entrepreneurial process to develop students’ business planning skills. This includes marketing and finance in order to aid the formulation of sustainable and enterprising business plans.
Canine Welfare and Legislation
The aim of this module is to enable students to develop knowledge and understanding of domestic and European legislation in relation to canine welfare. The students will also learn the roles and responsibility of animal welfare organisations in implementing and enforcing animal welfare legislation.
Year 3
Work Project
This module applies the practical, technical and personal skills developed in the Work Skills Development module. It will utilise a structured work environment for students to identify a suitable project, develop and manage the project and report on the outcomes. Students will be encouraged to use the work project to develop professional working relationships and identify their chosen career options.
Humans and Animal Interactions (half module)
The aim of this half module is to introduce students to the key features of relationships between people and dogs and to assess the significance of human/animal relationships.
Canine Rehabilitation (half module)
This half module explores the rapidly expanding area of canine rehabilitation, incorporating for example hydrotherapy and physiotherapy and a variety of other techniques.
Advances in Canine Behaviour
This module aims to build on all previous concepts covered in the programme to date. Focus will be on emerging research relating to canine behaviour and welfare and making best use of that research to enhance the scientific development of learners.
Canine Problem Behaviour and Modification Techniques
This module aims to develop a detailed understanding of the causation and control of behavioural problems in the dog. Knowledge of previous concepts such as the evolution and ontogeny of behaviour, and suitable training and behavioural modification methods will be built upon.
Course Documents:
Student Handbook (2015 Entry)
Programme Specification and Handbook (2016 Entry)
Myerscough College Policies and Procedures
Links with Professional Body:Students will be encouraged to form links with local and national animal organisations.
Extra Costs:
Additional costs for items that are essential for this course include:
Access to broadband internet and a computer
Assessment:
Students will face a variety of assessments including a combination of coursework and unseen examinations. The coursework assessment methods will include technical reports, portfolios, individual presentations and extended project work. The students may be required to produce work in a range of formats, such as the production of leaflets or research posters.
Learning Environment:
Learning activities on the course are in the main via Myerscough's virtual learning environment and these can involve live or recorded lectures and tutorials. This course also makes use of the on-site animal resources and links with outside organisations. During the study weekends there will be lectures with possible demonstrations from outside organisations and tutorials. Students will be expected to undertake extensive independent study and research to support coursework, lectures and assessments. Presentations will form an important part of the course.
Work Experience:
The Work Skills Development and Work Project modules will use a relevant working environment to provide the opportunity for students to develop real practical and technical skills and help prepare them for employment in their chosen subject area.
Additional Information:
We are mindful of the support required by students taking the blended learning route and that each of our learners will have differing needs. The three study weekends at the Myerscough College Preston campus will provide additional opportunity to receive personal tutorials on a one to one basis. Outside of the study weekend time, emails and discussion boards are the best way to keep in contact and raise issues with colleagues on the course and tutors. The study sessions will include theoretical and practical sessions, seminars and group discussions in addition to affording opportunities for exchange of information within peer groups, group and individual tutorial sessions with module and personal tutors.
Progression:
Upon successful completion of the FdSc programme at Merit Level, students may apply to progress onto the bridging programme in order to top-up onto the final year of the BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour and Welfare. This involves Merit Level completion of a Research Methods module.
Careers:
The course is designed with the intention that its graduates will be able to function effectively within the canine industry. Modular content emphasises the importance of career development and planning throughout.
Examples of possible careers include:
Rescue Centre Work
Training Assistance Dogs
Kennel Manager
Animal Insurance Advisor
Local Authority/DEFRA/HM Customs Animal Welfare Officers
Behaviour Advisor
You can now APPLY ONLINE using the links on the right
How To Apply
To apply for this course please select the coloured tab, relating to the centre you wish to study at, on the right hand side of this screen. You can save your progress if you prefer to do it in stages but you must complete all sections of the form.
Myerscough College - general contact details Address: Myerscough College, St Michael's Road, Bilsborrow, PrestonLancashire PR3 0RY
Telephone:01995 642222 Email: enquiries@myerscough.ac.uk Individual Learning Requirements Prospective students who have a learning difficulty or disability that may affect their studies should inform the College as soon as possible so that reasonable adjustments can be initiated, as appropriate. Where necessary students will be asked for evidence to help identify appropriate adjustments. If students wish to apply for a Disabled Student Allowance they need to seek advice from Student Finance England (or equivalent) which funds this provision for Higher Education Students. Please note that DSA funding is not available on all courses.
Please note that the information provided in this fact sheet was accurate at the date of publication. However, courses are continually being modified and information is therefore subject to change.
FdSc Canine Studies (Blended Learning) (Online)