Animal Behaviour and Welfare (with Foundation Year) BSc (Hons)
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2023-04-24 | 2023-02-10 |
| 2023-09-19 | 2023-01-27 |
| 2024-01-03 | 2023-11-25 |
Program Overview
Course overview
This programme has been accredited by the Royal Society of Biology following an independent and rigorous assessment. Accredited degree programmes contain a solid academic foundation in biological knowledge and key skills, and prepare graduates to address the needs of employers. The accreditation criteria require evidence that graduates from accredited programmes meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including subject knowledge, technical ability and transferable skills. Please note that the accreditation applies to Levels 4, 5 and 6 of the Single Honours programme only.
On the Animal Behaviour and Welfare degree you will explore the ways in which the biological sciences are applied to animal behaviour and welfare, in what is an exciting and rapidly-changing field. An animal’s welfare can range from very poor to excellent at any point in its life, and it is important that we understand the biological needs of different types of animals.
Why study this course with us?
Our Animal Behaviour and Welfare degree offers an integrated, scientific approach to the study of the theory and practice of animal behaviour and welfare, and the wider role of this discipline within the biological sciences. You will be taught at University Centre Reaseheath in the Foundation Year (if applicable) as well as in Year 1 (Level 4), and at the University of Chester’s Exton Park (Parkgate Road) site in Year 2 (Level 5) and Year 3 (Level 6). University Centre Reaseheath is a full member of the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA), and houses a large range of animals.
The course includes a combination of some practical experience (mostly in Year 1), academic skills development, and the enhancement of wider graduate employability skills, drawing on staff expertise in teaching, research and industry. The course is taught by a range of tutors from the Department of Biological Sciences, who are nationally and internationally recognised as subject specialists. Depending on module choices, there are a range of UK and overseas field trips that you can participate in. There is also the option of applying to study at an approved university overseas for a year, in between Years 2 and 3.
We regularly host seminars from a range of guest speakers and offer a wealth of volunteering opportunities such as the hedgehogfriendly campus campaign and ‘Welly Wednesdays’ local conservation work.
Program Outline
Teaching methods
You will be taught via a mixture of classroom-/lecture theatre-based sessions, supplemented with some practicals and informative field trips (depending on modules taken).
Assessment
Assessments are designed to encourage both academic skills and skills valued in the workplace, and include a combination of coursework and end-of-module examinations. Coursework includes (but is not limited to) essays, reports, data processing and oral presentations.
Work based learning
In Year 2 (Level 5), you can undertake either a work-based learning (WBL) module and placement, under the overall guidance of the University's WBL Placement Consultants, or an experiential learning field trip, which might be overseas (with additional financial costs to the student).
Job prospects
Previous graduates have gone on to do a range of job roles, including working as zoo keepers, animal welfare officers, education officers, research assistants, or working with animal- or conservation-related charities. Transferable employability skills also equip our graduates for a wide range of graduate careers outside of the animal sector. Some graduates also go on to do postgraduate study, including at Master's and PhD level.
Careers service
The University has an award-winning Careers and Employability service which provides a variety of employability-enhancing experiences; through the curriculum, through employer contact, tailored group sessions, individual information, advice and guidance.
Careers and Employability - Student Services aims to deliver a service which is inclusive, impartial, welcoming, informed and tailored to your personal goals and aspirations, to enable you to develop as an individual and contribute to the business and community in which you will live and work.
We are here to help you plan your future, make the most of your time at University and to enhance your employability. We provide access to part-time jobs, extra-curricular employability-enhancing workshops and offer practical one-to-one help with career planning, including help with CVs, applications and mock interviews. We also deliver group sessions on career planning within each course and we have a wide range of extensive information covering graduate jobs and postgraduate study.
Students and graduates of the University of Chester can use our services free of charge for up to two years after graduating.
The location
The campus is close to the city centre of Chester, a city like no other and an amazing place to live as a student. While it is undoubtedly beautiful and packed with history, Chester is also a bustling 21st-century city balancing big-name shopping, eating and living with a thriving independent scene.
University of Chester
Overview:
The University of Chester is a public university located in Chester, England. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. The university is known for its modern learning facilities and its historic city setting.
Services Offered:
The university provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Accommodation:
On-campus and off-campus housing options are available.Student Support:
A dedicated team provides academic, personal, and financial support.Fees and Finance:
Information on tuition fees, scholarships, and financial aid is available.Careers and Employability:
Services include career guidance, job search assistance, and internship opportunities.Sport and Active Lifestyle:
The university offers a variety of sports clubs and facilities.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at the University of Chester can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university is located in a historic city with a rich cultural heritage, offering numerous opportunities for exploration and leisure. The university also boasts a strong student community with a variety of clubs, societies, and events.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Award-Winning University:
The University of Chester has received numerous awards for its student experience, including being ranked 1st in the UK for its international student experience.Modern Learning Facilities:
The university offers state-of-the-art facilities, including libraries, laboratories, and computer labs.Historic City Setting:
Chester is a charming city with a rich history and culture, providing a unique and enriching learning environment.Strong Student Community:
The university has a vibrant student community with a wide range of clubs, societies, and events.Academic Programs:
The University of Chester offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate Programs:
The university offers a variety of undergraduate programs across various disciplines, including nursing, midwifery, social work, teaching, and business.Postgraduate Programs:
The university also offers a range of postgraduate programs, including master's degrees and research degrees.Other:
The university has several University Centres located in Birkenhead, Nantwich, and Warrington, offering a range of professionally-focused, practice-based courses. The university also has a strong commitment to sustainability and conservation.
Home Students
International/EU Students
Home Students
| Typical Entry |
72 UCAS points |
| GCE A Level |
72 UCAS points from GCE A Levels, including a D at A level
Human Nutrition – A level in Biology or Chemistry Grade D and GCSE grade C/4 English and MathsForensic Psychology – GCSE Grade C/4 in Maths. GCSE grade C/4 or above in English Language or Literature is also requiredOther vocational qualifications at Level 3 will also be considered, such as NVQs. If you are a mature student (21 or over) and have been out of education for a while or do not have experience or qualifications at Level 3 (equivalent to A Levels), then our Foundation Year courses will help you to develop the skills and knowledge you will need to succeed in your chosen degree. |
| BTEC |
BTEC Extended Diploma MMP BTEC Diploma MM |
| Irish/Scottish Highers |
Irish Higher - H4, H4, H4, H4 Scottish Highers - CCCC |
| International Baccalaureate |
24 points |
| Access requirements |
Access Diploma - Pass overall |
| Extra Information / General Entry Requirements |
Certain courses may require that you have studied a specific subject at GCE A Level (or acceptable alternatives):
|
International/EU Students
Students from countries outside the UK are expected to have entry qualifications roughly equivalent to UK A Level for undergraduate study and British Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) for postgraduate study. To help you to interpret these equivalents, please click on your country of residence to see the corresponding entry qualifications, along with information about your local representatives, events, information and contacts.
We accept a wide range of qualifications and consider all applications individually on merit. We may also consider appropriate work experience.
English Language Requirements
For those who do not have IELTS or an acceptable in-country English language qualification, the University of Chester has developed its own online English language test which applicants can take for just £50.
For more information on our English Language requirements, please visit International Entry Requirements.
