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FdSc Animal Science (FdA)

  • Pibwrlwyd Campus
2 years full time, 3 years part time

This foundation degree in animal science offers a range of opportunities for progression into the varied roles available within the animal sector and looks at various aspects of study including animal welfare, anthrozoology and marine biology.

It is validated by University of Wales Trinity Saint David, Carmarthen and is delivered at the college’s animal and equine centre at its Pibwrlwyd Campus where a range of animal facilities are based.

In addition to core elements, the programme encourages student research and discussion in relation to current issues of animal management, ethics, legislation and environmental change.

The course programme provides the knowledge, understanding and critical analytical skills and draws on a wide range of intellectual resources, theoretical perspectives and academic disciplines to facilitate understanding of animal sciences across a diverse range of species and fields of study.

As part of the course, students are required to undertake a mandatory internship within an animal/environmental or equine related business.

Course details

Study modes:
  • Full time
  • Part time
Institution code:
C22
UCAS code:
73B8
Course length:
2 years full time, 3 years part time

What you will learn

The college has excellent animal facilities, including equine indoor and outdoor arenas, an aquaria, exotic species room, small mammal room and aviaries housing a diverse range species to meet the requirements of the Foundation Degree Curriculum.

Students also have access to a range of wildlife facilities locally: a wildlife pond, river and coastal sites, farmland hedgerows and woodland habitats in order to undertake their studies.

Undergraduates undertake work-based modules at levels four and five.

Full-time students study 120 credits at level 4 year 1 and level 5 for year 2.

Part-time students will undertake 80 credits per year.

Full-Time students will study a number of modules at Level 4 for year 1 and level 5 for year 2

Level 4

  • Working in the Animal Industry 1 (compulsory)
  • Animal Nutrition (compulsory)
  • Study Skills (compulsory)
  • Animal Behaviour (compulsory)
  • Animal Husbandry and Health Management (option)
  • Introduction to Animal Anatomy and Physiology (compulsory)
  • Marine Biology (option)

Level 5

  • Comparative Animal Anatomy & Physiology (compulsory)
  • Working in the Animal Industry 2 (compulsory)
  • Animal Welfare (compulsory)
  • Animal Breeding (compulsory)
  • Anthrozoology (compulsory)
  • Conservation Biology (compulsory)

The programme enables students to develop a range of skills which transfer easily to the world of work. Employment routes can include zoo keepers, animal nursing assistants, pet retail managers, conservation managers, animal technicians, animal nutritionist, animal breeders, small holding management, marine management, animal rescue workers, research / laboratory workers, Defra / local government / welfare officers, kennel and cattery managers, charity workers, teaching.

The course allows progression onto the college’s BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour and Welfare (at Level 6) and applications  in addition to other honours programmes delivered at other institutions.

Each module is individually assessed.  The programme uses a range of assessment methods so that all students are given opportunities to demonstrate their strengths and in order to promote their graduate key skills.  Assessment methods include, written reports, research projects, practical assessments, essays and presentations.

There is no additional fee, however, it is likely that you will incur additional costs for personal equipment and for course related excursions.

Entry will be granted to applicants who demonstrate the academic ability and potential to benefit from the programme.

Learners will be expected to have four GCSEs at grade C and above, plus 16 UCAS points. Applications from mature learners who may not meet these criteria will be considered on their own merit at interview, based on their experience, interview assessment and other qualifications they may have gained as they may be industrially relevant.

The college welcomes students with a range of appropriate vocational qualifications and experience to apply in addition to the traditional A-level route. These could include the level 3 Advanced Technical Diploma and Extended Diploma in Animal or Equine Management, level 3 Extended Diploma in Animal or Equine Management, the level 3 Baccalaureate, Apprenticeships, NVQs, AVCEs, National Diplomas and Advanced National Certificates, NPTC level 3 Subsidiary Diploma and Diploma in Animal or Equine Management.

The University of Wales Trinity Saint David welcomes applications on the basis of prior learning, further details can be found here

Graduate Attributes Framework

This Framework aims to develop your professional skills and competence alongside your academic subject knowledge. You’ll study up to 40 credits per level throughout your programme from the Graduate Attributes Framework.  The Graduate Attribute modules are designed to enable you to develop, and evidence, a range of career-focused skills related to your subject area. These skills include digital competency, research and project management, as well as such personal competencies as communication, creativity, self-reflection, resilience and problem-solving.

Find out more about the Graduate Attributes Framework

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