Canine Therapy - BSc (Hons), CertHE, DipHE

Program Overview

Anglia Ruskin University's Canine Therapy program combines academic and vocational studies, preparing students for careers in canine therapy. Through hands-on experience in hydrotherapy and massage therapy, students gain a comprehensive understanding of canine health, behavior, and therapeutic techniques. The program equips graduates with the knowledge and skills to manage and treat various canine conditions, preparing them for professional practice as canine therapists.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Overview:

This Canine Therapy course at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) encompasses both academic and vocational studies, preparing students for careers in canine therapy. It delves into canine health, behavior, and therapeutic techniques like hydrotherapy and massage therapy.

Objectives:

The program aims to:

• Provide a comprehensive understanding of canine anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics.
• Develop practical skills in hydrotherapy and massage therapy for canines.
• Equip students with the knowledge and expertise to manage and treat various canine conditions.
• Foster a deep understanding of canine behavior, nutrition, and welfare.
• Prepare graduates for professional practice as canine therapists.

Description:

Students will immerse themselves in a stimulating learning environment at ARU's Writtle campus, utilizing the state-of-the-art Lordship Canine Centre. They will gain hands-on experience through commercially run hydrotherapy sessions, working with actual canine cases. The program provides a solid foundation in canine science, complemented by the practical application of therapeutic techniques.

Outline:

Year 1:

• Introduction to Canine Physiotherapy Assessment
• Anatomy and Physiology with Applied Surface Anatomy (Canine)
• Canine Nutrition, Behaviour, Ethics and Welfare
• Professional Skills and Personal Development
• Components Affecting Canine Performance and Wellbeing

Year 2:

• Canine Hydrotherapy and First Aid
• Introduction to Manual Therapies and Remedial Exercise (Canine)
• Exercise Physiology (Canine)
• Research Methods
• Introduction to Canine Biomechanics
• Functional Anatomy (Canine)
• Canine Health, Disease and Pain Management

Year 3:

• Capstone Project
• Applied Massage, Rehabilitation and Hydrotherapy Techniques (Canine)
• Business and Client Management
• Applied Clinical Anatomy (Canine)
• Veterinary Pathophysiology and Biomechanics (Canine)

Assessment:

Student progress is evaluated through diverse assessment methods, including:

• Assignments
• Reports
• Written examinations
• Observed structured practical examinations
• Observed structured clinical examinations
• Oral presentations
• Debates
• Dissertation (Capstone Project)

Teaching:

The program is delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials, practical sessions, and clinical placements. Students benefit from instruction by highly qualified teaching staff, including experienced veterinary physiotherapists and veterinary surgeons. ARU's innovative teaching methods promote active learning, hands-on experience, and critical thinking.

Careers:

Graduates of this program are well-equipped for a wide range of careers in canine therapy. They can pursue roles as:

• Canine physiotherapists
• Hydrotherapists
• Massage therapists
• Clinical canine therapists
• Researchers
• Health advisors
• Lecturers
The program also lays the groundwork for further studies, such as master's degrees in animal welfare and conservation.

Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

UK students starting 2024/25 (full-time, per year)

• £9,250

International students starting 2024/25 (full-time, per year)

• £13,900

Additional course and living costs

• Suitable smart clothing (plain navy or black trousers) for working around dogs
• Overalls (not orange) (£15-20)
• White lab coat
• Laptop/device
• Pens and pencils
• Notebook or paper for note-taking
• Clipboard
• Folders
• Calculator
• Wet suit and/or waders (a wet top is also recommended if wearing waders) (from £45)
• Pair of wet shoes, for example crocs (from £5)

Living at university

• Accommodation
• Bills
• Internet, mobile phone and calls
• Travel
• Food and drink
• Socialising and going out
• Study materials

Paying for uni: bursaries, sponsorship and working

• ARU scholarships and bursaries
• ARU Temps (campus employment bureau)