Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

This top-up delivers Level 6 modules that combine theory, practical skills and an independent research project. Core themes include the science of animal behaviour, welfare assessment, applied husbandry and enrichment, ethical frameworks and the use of evidence in welfare decision-making.

• Advanced Animal Behaviour: mechanisms and functions of behaviour across taxa, communication, social systems, and applied behaviour analysis.
• Applied Welfare Assessment: welfare indicators, welfare auditing, physiological and behavioural measures, and developing practical assessment protocols.
• Animal Cognition and Welfare: cognition, learning, sentience debates and the implications for husbandry and enrichment design.
• Practical Husbandry and Enrichment: species-appropriate management, environmental enrichment strategies, captive and companion animal considerations, and risk assessment.
• Research Methods and Statistics: experimental design, data collection methods, statistical analysis and critical interpretation of published research.
• Independent Research Project (Dissertation): a substantial, supervised research or applied project on a topic in behaviour or welfare that demonstrates competence in planning, execution, analysis and communication of findings.
• Professional Practice and Work-based Learning: placement or workplace-based assessments, professional skills, ethical practice and employability portfolio development.

Teaching blends lectures, seminars, laboratory and field practicals, plus supervised placement experience where possible. Assessment methods typically include written examinations, practical assessments, portfolios, presentations and a major independent project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a relevant Level 5 qualification such as an HND, Foundation degree (FdSc) or equivalent with a profile that demonstrates readiness for Level 6 study (many offers expect a merit profile or equivalent). Applications from candidates with substantial, relevant professional experience or alternative qualifications are considered on an individual basis.

Typical additional expectations include evidence of practical experience with animals (paid or voluntary), and functional skills in English and mathematics at the equivalent of GCSE grade C/4. Applicants whose first language is not English will normally need to demonstrate proficiency in English through an accepted qualification.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of roles across animal welfare, behaviour and related sectors. Common destinations include:

• welfare and behaviour technician roles in zoos, wildlife parks and aquaria
• animal welfare officer or inspector roles with charities and statutory bodies
• behaviour support and advisory roles for companion animal organisations and rescue centres
• research technician roles and support posts in universities or research institutes
• roles in animal management and husbandry for conservation projects or pet-centred businesses
• further study at postgraduate level (MSc in animal behaviour, welfare science or related disciplines) or progression to professional qualifications such as veterinary nursing where entry requirements are met

The course emphasises employability skills, including project management, data analysis and communication, and often includes support to help secure placements or work experience relevant to career goals.

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes offers an applied, vocational approach with a strong focus on hands-on practical training and employability. The university provides laboratory and field facilities suited to animal science teaching, opportunities for industry-linked placements and staff who are active in teaching and applied research in animal biology and welfare.

Students benefit from being based near a city with strong links to charities, wildlife centres and animal-related organisations, enabling networking and placement opportunities. Brookes also provides dedicated student support services for careers guidance, academic skills and personal development to help transition into professional roles or further study.