Who is the Course for
This is an advanced course for students from the biological sciences who
want to develop an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the biology
and welfare of companion, domesticated and wild animals managed for
production or leisure. Applicants will normally hold a BSc or equivalent
in a related topic, but applications are welcome from individuals with
extensive industrial experience. Applications from non-UK students are
particularly welcome.
Course Aims
The scheme will provide students with an opportunity to:
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Study at an advanced level the techniques used for
assessing animal welfare in a range of species and environments,
and to determine the limitations to these methods
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Develop an enhanced understanding of animal
welfare by specific reference to the biology of the animal and
appraise the issues that relate to international criteria for
animal welfare.
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Develop existing knowledge and experience in the
biology of designated species (farm, companion and exotic species)
maintained in their managed or natural environment. This will be
achieved using a case study approach and the research project. |
Duration
The modular course is delivered in the UK and The Netherlands. It is
expected that most of the students undertaking the course will do so on
a full-time basis over one year. Students will study at Writtle from
September to December. The second stage of the course is delivered at
HAS Den Bosch University from January to April. A minimum of three
months will be spent studying away from the UK.
Delivery and
Assessment
The teaching methods are a mixture of lectures, seminars, tutorials,
visits and student managed learning. The self-guided study takes place
under the supervision of staff from the Centre of Animal Biology and
Welfare at Writtle College and HAS Den Bosch. Students are assessed
using a number of methods, for example written papers case studies and
project reports.
The research dissertation/project allows the student to undertake
specialist research in a specific field relating to animal biology and
welfare. The project must include a practical experiment to demonstrate
that the student can gather and process data and problem solve. The
project is supervised by an academic member of staff and takes place
over a 20-week period during the summer. The project can be based at
Writtle or HAS Den Bosch, or at an external organisation.
Key Features
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A combination of theory, practical experience and
industrial visits alongside the development of interpersonal and
communication skills. |
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A second term of study, delivered in English, at
HAS Den Bosch University of Professional Education in The
Netherlands. |
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Opportunities to undertake research in the UK or
The Netherlands.
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Career Prospects
Graduates are likely to enter management positions in the animal
industry, animal welfare organisations or further studies at advanced
postgraduate level.
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