| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
The BA (Hons) Animal Welfare and Society program explores the complex relationships between humans and animals. It combines insights from the arts, social sciences, and natural sciences to foster critical analysis of human-animal interactions and their ethical implications. Students gain hands-on experience through internships and placements, and develop skills for careers in animal advocacy, veterinary work, and animal behavior consultancy.
Program Outline
Degree Overview
Overview:
The BA (Hons) Animal Welfare and Society program delves into the intricate relationships between humans and animals.
Objectives:
- Develop a comprehensive understanding of animal behavior, training, welfare, and conservation.
- Gain hands-on experience through internships and placements with animal-related organizations.
- Examine the philosophical, ethical, and legal aspects surrounding animal use and welfare.
- Analyze the impact of human activities on animals and the environment.
- Explore diverse career options in areas like animal advocacy, veterinary work, and animal behaviour consultancy.
Description:
This program equips students with knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of human-animal relationships. Through a blend of classroom instruction, field experiences, and independent research, students gain a holistic understanding of animal welfare, ethics, law, and policy. They also develop critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving abilities, preparing them for diverse career paths within the field.
Outline
Content:
The program covers a wide range of topics, including:
- Animal behaviour and welfare
- Animal ethics and philosophy
- Animal law and policy
- Animal advocacy and campaigning
- Human-animal relationships
- Animal cognition and sentience
- Animal conservation and biodiversity
- The environmental impact of animal agriculture
- Animals in popular culture and media
Structure:
The program is delivered over three years, with each year comprising three semesters. The first two years provide a solid foundation in the core principles of animal welfare and society. The third year allows students to specialize in specific areas of interest through elective modules and a research dissertation.
Course Schedule:
Classes typically take place between 9 am and 6 pm, Monday to Friday, during term time. Wednesday afternoons are reserved for independent study, sports activities, and club meetings.
Modules:
- Year 1: Introduction to Animal Welfare and Society, Animal Behaviour and Welfare Issues, Research Methods 1, Introduction to Species Conservation, Introduction to Animal Advocacy, Regarding Animals
- Year 2: Theorising the Animal, Animal Welfare Law and Policy, Animal Welfare Concepts and Assessment, Research Methods 2, Optional Modules, Placement in Animal Welfare and Society
- Year 3: Applied Animal Behaviour, Dissertation in Animal Welfare and Society, The Political Representation of Animals, Optional Modules
Assessment
Assessment Methods:
The program uses a variety of assessment methods to evaluate student learning, including:
- Essays
- Portfolios
- Supervised independent work
- Presentations
- Written exams
- Practical exams
Assessment Criteria:
The program assesses students based on their ability to demonstrate knowledge, understanding, critical thinking, communication skills, and problem-solving abilities. Specific criteria may vary depending on the module and assessment method.
Teaching
Teaching Methods:
The program utilizes a combination of lectures, seminars, tutorials, field trips, and independent study to facilitate learning.
Faculty:
The program features a team of experienced and passionate faculty with expertise in animal welfare, ethics, law, and related fields.
Unique Approaches:
The program emphasizes hands-on learning experiences through internships, placements, and field trips. Students also have opportunities to conduct independent research and engage in critical discussions with faculty and peers.
Careers
Career Paths:
Graduates of the program are prepared for diverse career paths in areas such as:
- Animal advocacy and activism
- Animal welfare organizations
- Veterinary practices and animal hospitals
- Animal behaviour consultancy
- Education and research
- Government and policy
Opportunities:
The program provides graduates with the knowledge and skills to pursue a wide range of opportunities within the animal welfare field. They are also well-prepared for further postgraduate studies in related disciplines.
Outcomes:
Graduates of the program have gone on to successful careers in various animal-related fields, making significant contributions to animal welfare and protection.
Other
Field Trips:
The program offers field trips to zoos, sanctuaries, and other animal-related facilities in the first year of study.
Optional Modules:
Students have the opportunity to choose from a variety of optional modules in areas of specific interest.
Dissertation:
The third-year dissertation project allows students to conduct in-depth research on a topic related to animal welfare and society.
Scholarships and Bursaries:
The University offers various scholarships and bursaries to support students financially.
Printing Allowance:
The University provides students with a printing allowance to support their academic work.
Environmental Sustainability:
The University promotes environmental sustainability and encourages students to consider the environmental impact of their actions.
UK / Channel Islands /Isle of Man / Republic of Ireland International Year 1 £9,250 £16,700 Year 2 £9,250 £16,700 Year 3 £9,250 £16,700 Total £27,750 £50,100 Optional Sandwich Year £1,850 £3,340 Total with Sandwich Year £29,600 £53,440
