BSc (Hons) Animal Science

BSc (Hons) Animal Science

UCAS Code
Honours: D321 / Ordinary: D390

Duration&Mode
3 years FT

Typical Offer:
UCAS Tariff Points
180 tariff points including at least 80 tariff points from a 6-unit (GCE A-Level/VCE A-Level) and/or 12-unit (VCE A-Level) awards. A maximum of 20 tariff points will be counted from Key Skills

BTEC National Diploma
MPP

OCR National Extended Diploma (18 Units)
P2

Irish Leaving Certificate
BBCC

Scottish Highers
190 - 240 points

International Baccalaureate
24 points

Preferred Subjects
Biology

Postgraduate Qualifications
Students on this course will be given the opportunity to progress to a relevant Masters programme in the Postgraduate School.

Course Aims This course offers a fresh approach to animal science, which is achieved by incorporating practical animal husbandry skills into a broad programme of academic study. Students will develop a sound understanding of scientific principles whilst also developing practical competence with a wide range of species. The final year dissertation aims to develop research skills within the context of the animal sector. Graduates will have a broad scientific training, but more importantly will be able to communicate their understanding to others and apply their skills to specific situations.

Course Content The first year of the animal science degree is common with the animal management degree programme. This allows students some flexibility in their choice of career direction. The first year encourages development of practical husbandry skills within each of the three major animal groups (companion animals, farm animals and horses). Coupled with this practical competence is a basic grounding in anatomy and physiology, an appreciation of the animal's environment and simple business techniques.

The second year further develops scientific knowledge including biochemistry, behaviour, health, disease and reproduction, with options in farm, equine, wildlife and companion animal science. A continued development of business essentials is also included.

The final year concentrates on applying knowledge within the animal sector. It incorporates extended study of welfare, behaviour and biochemistry whilst also looking at the application of science to new technologies in feed, reproduction and genetics. A range of options and a dissertation allow the student to further tailor the course towards the animal species in which they are most interested.

Special Features The course is supported by excellent practical facilities in the form of science laboratories and animal units. It aims to develop an awareness of the principles of the science of animals and their application. The College is currently involved in a number of research projects to support teaching, and has an extensive employer network to ensure the vocational relevance of its courses. Students benefit from excellent facilities for practicals and will have the opportunity to take part in hands-on practicals during the first year. Students will also have the change to study species, or groups of species of particular interest to them.

Industrial Placements Although not a formal requirement of the course, an industrial placement during the course is possible. The College has a large employer network as well as links with several overseas institutions.

Career Prospects Graduates will be equipped with the technical understanding and skills required for a huge range of career opportunities within the animal sector. Posts such as scientific officers, research support technicians, nutritional advisors, conservation officers, pet trade advisors, behaviourists, RSPCA inspectors, veterinary sales representatives, journalists, teachers and a whole host of other opportunities will be available to animal science graduates. A degree in animal science is also an ideal stepping-stone to further qualifications, such as a master's degree, a doctorate or possibly further degree level study, for instance as a veterinary surgeon.

• Animal Science and Animal Managemenrt Resources

Student Comment
The Animal Science degree really appealed to me as it offered a wide variety of modules covering areas such as health, nutrition and conservation.

Lectures are delivered in a number of formats; by teaching staff, guest speakers and through field trips. Staff within the Animal Science department have an open door policy and are always on hand to offer advice.

Assistance from the Learning Support Centre has meant that my hearing impairment has never been a problem.

Writtle College has an excellent set of laboratories at the Lordship Science Centre, which are currently essential to me whilst working on my dissertation. The College farm and animal unit have provided me with the opportunity to develop a broad range of animal husbandry skills.

I have been fortunate to live in campus accommodation, providing both an excellent base to work from and social links. There is a well organised Students' Union, with weekly events.

This course has inspired me to continue with my academic studies and I hope to go on to further my research with an MSc.

Thomas Wilton
BSc (Hons) Animal Science