MSc Animal Biology and Welfare

Factfile

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. It is however possible to study over a two or three year period as a part-time student. 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.

Admissions Tutor(s)
Emma Bleach: email

HAS Den Bosch

Areas of Study

Detailed information available for this course (as at 2008/09).

Course Aims

The scheme will provide students with an opportunity to:

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
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.
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.

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.

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

A combination of theory, practical experience and industrial visits alongside the development of interpersonal and communication skills.
A second term of study, delivered in English, at HAS Den Bosch University of Professional Education in The Netherlands.
Opportunities to undertake research in the UK or The Netherlands.

Career Prospects

Graduates are likely to enter management positions in the animal industry, animal welfare organisations or further studies at advanced postgraduate level.

How to Apply

Student Comment

Atsuko Shinohara, MSc Animal Biology and Welfare

Before I came to Writtle College, I worked as a vet at an animal practice in Japan. I was interested in the welfare of animals but in Japan there weren't many opportunities to study animal welfare, so I contacted the British Council and found the MSc Animal Biology and Welfare course at Writtle College.

The course covered both the theoretical and practical study of a wide range of animals. There was also the opportunity to study in The Netherlands, which was a great experience as it gave me the chance to look at other aspects of the subject and see other cultures.

When I first came to Writtle College I was worried about my ability to study the course as English is not my first language. However, lecturers and other students on the course helped me and the College provided English

sessions, so I was able to build my confidence in the English language and study without worries.

As well as a great learning experience, during my time at Writtle College I have been able to make friends from many other countries through the various social events organised by the College, including visits to places in the local area. It's because of this and the excellent course and facilities that I have really enjoyed studying and staying at Writtle College.

Atsuko Shinohara
MSc Animal Biology and Welfare