Animal Science [with Foundation Year]

Develop your understanding of animal biology and its relationship to animal health, disease, growth and development, in theory and practice.

Our Animal Science degree combines both pure and applied sciences in the study of animals, while also incorporating practical animal management skills.

As a student at ARU in Writtle, you’ll develop a sound understanding of scientific principles and practical competence with a range of animal species. You'll take part in animal handling practicals involving work with a range of domesticated and captive animal species, as well as laboratory classes.

In years 2-3, you have a choice of modules so that you can focus on particular animal groups. These could include zoo animals, companion animals, wildlife conservation, and farm livestock.

Meanwhile, the final-year dissertation is an opportunity to develop your research skills.

As a graduate, you’ll have the ability to communicate your knowledge to others, practical animal management skills, and broad scientific training.

There are a number of ways to study this Animal Science Degree. As well as our 3-year full-time degree, you have the option of studying over:

• 6 years part-time

• 1 year to gain a Certificate in Higher Education

• 4 years including a foundation year, to gain a BSc

You can apply through UCAS (UK students) or directly to us (part-time and international students).

All BSc students study the same modules (with the addition of foundation year modules for those taking the 4-year course). Cert HE students study Year 1 BSc modules.

Year 1:

Academic and Personal Management Skills (20 credits)
Biological Concepts (Introduction to Laboratory Skills) (20 credits)
Maths for IT and Science (15 credits)
Chemistry for Life Sciences (15 credits)
Applied Industry Techniques (30 credits)
Independent (Themed) Project (20 credits)

Year 2:

Professional Skills for the Animal Industry (30 credits)
Animal Biology (30 credits)
Ethics of Animal Use (15 credits)
Introduction to Biochemistry (15 credits)
Animal Husbandry (15 credits)
Ecology and Evolution (15 credits)

Year 3:

Research Methods (15 credits)
Commercial and Professional Skills for Animal Science (15 credits)
Behaviour (15 credits)
Nutritional Biochemistry (15 credits)
Animal Health Science (15 credits)
Reproduction and Development (15 credits)

Year 4:

Capstone Project (30 credits)
Applied Nutrition and Feeding (15 credits)
Advanced Animal Health Science (15 credits)
Genetics and Genomics (15 credits)
Applied Behaviour and Animal Welfare (15 credits)

This course provides a mix of assessment methods including: Practical assessments with companion and zoo animals, farm livestock and horses Examinations - both multiple choice and essay questions Presentations - both individually and in small groups Essays and technical reports Assessed seminars Case studies Experimental work and laboratory reports Poster presentations Debates Dissertation