Where will this course lead?

Students not wanting to commit to full-time higher education can study individual modules of the FdSc or BSc in Animal Behaviour and Welfare. Primarily aimed at those already working in the animal sector, as continuing professional development, modular students can apply for any of the modules across the programme.

Semester 1 runs from September to December, and Semester 2 runs from January to May.

What will I study?

Choose from the following modules in 2023/24

Animal Breeding and Genetics (Level 5 Semester 1)

Covering domestic mammals and wild animals, this module aims to develop the scientific basis for the study of breeding and the subsequent effects on management within the industry and employment. The impact of current and traditional breeding practices, including use of large scale, production animal breeding, will be discussed with a focus on the potential impact these practices can have on welfare. Use of contemporary research links theoretical knowledge with preparation for industry.

Animal Nutrition (Level 5 Semester 2)

This module focuses on the importance of correct animal nutrition and the consequences of dietary imbalances. Topics covered include diet-associated disease in our companion animals, and the impact on welfare; biochemical basis of nutrients and their digestion, dietary measurement and ration formulation.

Exotic Animal Trade (Level 5 Semester 2)

The module prepares the student for critical evaluation of current animal collection practices and the wider effect of keeping exotic animals. Students are introduced to the global development of the exotic animal trade, and how exotic animals are used in different international societies, and the ethical and welfare issues derived from this. Students will analyse practices involved in collection management, including legislative restraints and staffing roles.

Animal Health and Disease (Level 5 Semester 2)

This module will provide an understanding of the importance of recognising illness in a range of animals, the aetiology of certain diseases and disease control strategies. Learners will explore some of the diagnostic techniques used in veterinary medicine for infectious disease and infestations. Students will develop an understanding for the administration, storage and disposal of veterinary medicines in line with regulation and legislative requirements.

Zoo Practices and Conservation (Level 5 Semester 1)

This module will review the historical, current and future development of the modern zoo. The module will allow learners to bring together the principles of the modern zoo and how these apply to species, their management and their role within the collection. Learners will critically appraise in situ and ex situ conservation efforts from zoos worldwide, and critically evaluate accommodation and husbandry and the impact that this has on animal behaviour.

Applied Animal Behaviour (Level 5 Semester 1)

This module aims to extend students' knowledge of the study of animal behaviour by developing their understanding of observational and experimental study. The emphasis on the development of abnormal behaviour and how behavioural needs can be compromised in captive environments will be explored; leading to an assessment of strategies to alleviate abnormal behaviours. The overall aim of the module is to provide essential knowledge and skills to equip students to carry out an independent applied animal behaviour project, where they will learn to record and interpret the behaviour of captive and domestic animals for the purpose of determining welfare and making recommendations for improvements to current practices.

Pet Behaviour Consultation Techniques (Level 6 Semester 2)

This module prepares students for optimising welfare of companion animals by developing an understanding of their behaviour and its links to emotional health and wellbeing. Students are introduced to the development of behaviour in companion animals and their basic requirements for good behavioural and emotional stability. The links between medical issues and behavioural problems will be explored alongside the most-commonly seen behavioural problems in companion animals. The role, limitations and working boundaries of the behavioural clinician will be considered.

Epidemiology (Level 6 Semester 2)

This module is designed to equip learners with the understanding of how disease prevention strategies are developed, and disease surveillance procedures implemented. Underpinning knowledge of infectious disease, immunity and the principles of epidemiology are studied. Zoonotic diseases will also be examined and the importance of reducing risks to human health emphasized. Learners will appraise zoonotic disease prevention protocols for case scenarios. Diagnostic tests will be considered and students will have opportunities to carry out and practice some of the techniques covered.

Conservation Strategies (Level 6 Semester 2)

This module analyses the threats to biodiversity, and the anthropogenic changes seen to wildlife. Students will critically assess the incentives for conserving species and the conflicts for doing so, using a range of case studies of different methodologies and different countries. The module will allow learners to understand how cultural boundaries and governmental policies can influence what can and can't be achieved as well bring forward the argument for not conserving species, emphasising different perspectives and conflicting views and values systems. Critical appraisal will occur on how effective conservational organisations, legislations, management and monitoring techniques can be. Learners will practise and assess their own skills of monitoring and managing conservation via activities which will be essential experience for work in the field.

Advanced Animal Learning and Training (Level 6 Semester 1)

The module equips learners with underpinning knowledge of animal learning and training whilst providing them with the practical skills essential to successfully train an animal to meet desired end goals. Learners will be taken through training and learning protocols in detail, both theoretically and practically, which will be followed by important concepts used in training and training plan development, as well as how to correctly use a variety of training aids. Legislation, safety considerations when working with animals and ethical concerns surrounding certain training methods will also be explored. Learners will be given the opportunity to develop and carry out their own training plan to enable assessment of their practical and theoretical skills.

Human Animal Interactions (Level 6 Semester 1)

This module will provide learners with an understanding of the modern study of human- animal relationships. It will focus on the development and historical background of anthrozoology and the interaction with other disciplines including philosophy, ethology and psychology. A review of the emotional bonds and communication between human and non-human animals will be completed exploring current theories and development in aspects of comparative psychology. Students will be expected to investigate the benefits of human-animal bonds and current developments within this field of study. Students will then be able to apply their knowledge to research and appraise the role of a selected animal assisted intervention.

International Animal Welfare (Level 6 Semester 1)

The module focuses on animal welfare at an international level, looking at good and poor practices worldwide and how they affect the animal welfare status. Different cultures, political systems and barriers to animal welfare will be explored. The module evaluates how technology can improve animal welfare and economic output, and also considers the importance of animal welfare education, potentially adjusting culture or political status in different countries, allowing for adaptations to suit different nations.

How will this course be delivered?

Modules last between twelve and thirteen weeks, and attendance at lessons is required (this is not a distance learning module). Timetables can be provided upon request; lessons run from 9.00am - 12.45pm or from 1.30pm - 5pm.

What qualifications will I get?

An Oxford Brookes certificate will be issued on completion.

How will I be assessed?

This varies between modules, but will usually be one piece of coursework and one exam, or two pieces of coursework.

How do I get a place on the course?

Applicants should apply via the college website.

What are the entry requirements?

Applicants will require an interview to ensure suitability of the programme. As this is a higher education level course, it is expected applicants will hold at level 3 qualifications or have significant work experience in the relevant sector.

What else do I need to know?

Some modules may have specific equipment requirement or require full-day attendance at a zoo visit. This will be discussed at interview.

Completion of all modules will not provide the award of FdSc/BSc, to do this requires enrolment on the main FdSc/BSc programme.

What can I do after this course?

Students may wish to move to studying further modules in the programme, or apply for the full-time FdSc or BSc.