What will I learn?
This course covers a wide range of topics related to animal behaviour, you will study human and animal psychology, consider how physiology impacts on behaviour and develop links between legislation and ethics.
Using an evidence-based approach the evolving relationship between humans and animals is explored in detail including application to developing training techniques.
Utilising techniques developed throughout the course you will design and conduct your own behavioural dissertation study. Previous student students have conducted research on:
‘ If dog behaviour should be part of the national curriculum’
‘ The ability of dogs to respond correctly to verbal cues given by a audio/treat dispensing device.’
‘ The effect of massage on cribbing and non cribbing horses.’
‘ Factors influencing how public picks a behaviourist.’
Attendance Requirements
The BSc (Hons) Applied Animal Behaviour Top-up degree is provided via our Virtual learning platform LEDGE, which is supported by six block weeks at the UCS campus.
Students are required to attend four UCS-based block weeks in Year 1 and two UCS-based block weeks in Year 2.
A couple of additional days per year are also required per year for additional activities like examinations. Dates of these will be given well in advance.
How will I be assessed?
You will showcase your knowledge through a combination of written assignments, case studies, seminar presentations and exams. At Level 6 the dissertation module will prove your skills within the field of research and we encourage students to present this work to other organisations.
Where can I go from here?
The course works towards the knowledge elements that are required for certification as a Clinical Animal Behaviourist as identified by the Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour and the Animal Behaviour and Training Council. You can also continue your studies to MSc and PhD level.
Sparsholt students have developed their own businesses focused on behavioural consultations for a range of species including dogs, cats and horses. Others work in the veterinary industry. Several students have progressed on to postgraduate study, one continuing and developing her dissertation project in to a PhD.
Modules Covered
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• Animal Communication Learning and Training
• Ethology Domestication and Anthrozoology
• Mechanisms of Behaviour
• Ethics Welfare and Law
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• Human Psychology and Clinical Practice
• Dissertation and Data Analysis
Additional Costs
For additional course costs click here
Entry Requirements
- HND or Foundation Degree
- Diploma of Higher Education in a suitable subject
- FdSc Level 5 Veterinary Nursing
