BSc (Hons) Applied Animal Science

We consider a variety of qualifications and relevant experience, and each application is assessed on its own merit.

To enrol on this course, you will usually be required to have 240 credits from a foundation degree or Higher National Diploma.

If English is not your first language, you will need an IELTS score of 7.0 with a minimum score of 6.5 in each component (Reading , Writing, Listening and Speaking or an equivalent English Language qualification).

Each module is worth a specified number of credits. For full time students a total of 120 credits will be studied in each academic year. This will consist of 5 modules comprising of 4 modules at 20 credits and the dissertation module at 40 credits. For part time students it will depend on the intensity of your studies.

Modules

• Dissertation – 40 credits
• Sustainability and innovation in Animal Science – 20 credits
• Professional Skills and Project management – 20 credits
• Evidence informed husbandry – 20 credits
• Applied Conservation Biology – 20 credits

Timetables are normally available one month before the commencement of your studies. As a guide, in 2020 the programme was timetabled on a Monday and Tuesday for formal lectures and Mondays for dissertation support. Staff are available at other times for dissertation support by appointment.

When studied part-time, the duration of the course depends on the speed at which you wish to progress through it. This is called the ‘intensity of study’. For example, studying half-time would be equivalent to 50 per cent intensity of study and would typically double the length of the course from one to two years. You may be able to change the intensity of study during your course. Not all intensities of study are available for all programmes.

Work based learning and work related learning are very significant to this programme and are embedded into every module at FHEQ Level 6. You will work very closely with industry throughout to ensure that you develop the skills necessary for successful employment in the animal/land based sector. Each module will focus on developing employer-related skills – both specifically for animal science and also important transferable skills. There will be a focus on developing practical skills in the field and the laboratory. Guest speakers and industry visits will be used to enhance modules and enable you to apply your theoretical knowledge to real-life situations as well as gain additional qualifications and training. Where appropriate assignments will be linked to local, national and international topics to ensure you have a real-world emphasis and prepare you for employment.

There are two formal or summative assessed pieces of work for each module. Assessment methods can include written examinations and a range of coursework assessments such as essays, reports, portfolios, performance, presentations and projects. The grades from formal assessments count towards your module mark. In addition to formal assessments throughout modules of study there will be developmental (formative) assessments to support you with developing greater understanding of your progress.

We recognise feedback as an essential component of your learning and progression. We adopt a feed-forward approach whereby feedback is given in a developmental manner to support your continued progression. You will receive feedback on all assessments within 20 working days.

Our dedicated teaching teams will support with your application of theoretical and practical knowledge. Their passion and enthusiasm is exceptional, with dedicated support and tutorial time available so that you can make the most of your studies. This support has been crucial to the success of many past students who may not come from a traditional education pathway, and helps ensure your success.

You will be taught by an experienced teaching team whose expertise and knowledge are closely matched to the content of the modules on the course. The team includes academic staff, professional practitioners with industry experience, and where relevant, technicians. Postgraduate students undertaking teacher training may also contribute to the teaching of seminars under the supervision of the module leader. Our teaching is informed by research, professional practice and industry experience to provide you with the most up to date and relevant learning opportunities.

Independent learning is a key expectation at level 6. When not attending lectures, seminars or practicals you will be expected to continue learning independently through self-study. Typically, this will involve reading journal articles and books, working on individual and group projects, undertaking research, preparing coursework assignments and presentations, and preparing for examinations where applicable. Your independent learning is supported by a range of excellent facilities, including the library, the South Devon University Centre Research Centre, and our course specific environments.

Your overall workload at Level 6 consists of class contact hours, of approximately 7 hours’ per week, plus independent learning, and assessment activity. Together, this equates to approximately 36 hours per week. The following information gives an indication of how much time you will need to allocate to different activities at each level of the course.

Level 6: 21% of your time is spent in timetabled teaching and learning activity. 79% is spent on independent learning and assessment related activity.

A key feature of our university level programmes is the exceptional support we provide for students. We are passionate about providing dedicated and bespoke support services to help you make the most of your time here and to maximise your potential. We have an experienced team who offer a range of services, and regular 1:1 contact time with your personal tutor guarantees your professional and personal development. We can provide help with study skills, written English, academic writing, research skills, critical thinking, and revision. We hold the principles of equality and opportunity for all in the highest regard. That’s why our degrees are designed to be accessible for anyone, regardless of your personal circumstances. We endeavour to make reasonable adjustments and remove any barriers to your learning. We also offer more flexible timetables than other institutions to minimise the impact studying has on your personal life and responsibilities.

Upon successful completion of this degree you will have a wide range of career opportunities. You could enter employment in a variety of fields and roles, or alternatively could consider progressing to further study at Master’s Level in various related subject fields.

Research scientist
Animal care manager
Pet behavioural counsellor
Animal nutritionist
Zoologist

Funding is available to help you with living costs during your studies via Student Finance England. We are committed to supporting our students with a number of bursary packages, which you will receive if you meet particular criteria, and does not need to be repaid. Bursaries are awarded in addition to any funding received from Student Finance England.

Course Related Costs Included

• Equipment to support practical sessions related to your programme of learning
• Compulsory visits related to your programme of learning
• Annual £10 printing allowance
• Access to e-books and e-journals relating to your programme of study

Course Related Costs Not Included

• Additional printing over the initial allowance
• Personal protective equipment related to practical modules
• Optional overseas and UK based field trips
• The cost of books you may wish to purchase
• An annual parking fee or bus pass for travel to South Devon University Centre