Animal Science

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: Professional Skills for the Animal Industry, Animal Biology, Ethics of Animal Use, Introduction to Biochemistry, Animal Husbandry, Ecology and Evolution. Year 2: Research Methods, Commercial and Professional Skills for Animal Science, Behaviour, Nutritional Biochemistry, Animal Health Science, Reproduction and Development, Livestock Production Systems, Livestock from Farm to Fork, Management of Zoo Animal Collections, Wildlife Conservation Skills, Professional Practice and Legislation, Applied Behaviour and Training, Veterinary Microbiology and Parasitology, Veterinary Immunology, Animal Rescue, Rehabilitation and Rehoming. Year 3: Capstone Project, Applied Nutrition and Feeding, Advanced Animal Health Science, Genetics and Genomics, Applied Behaviour and Animal Welfare, Livestock Technology, Developments in Livestock Production, Applied Issues in Wildlife Conservation, Developments in Zoo Management, Clinical Animal Behaviour, Developing Clinical Practice, Veterinary Epidemiology and Public Health, Veterinary Ethics and Legislation, Conservation Planning and Development.

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