Animal Behaviour and Welfare Science

Based in the internationally renowned Bristol Animal Welfare and Behaviour Research Group, you will study how animals function and interact and how to scientifically assess their welfare. You will also investigate how to apply behaviour and welfare concepts in farming and conservation, and how to tackle problem behaviours in domestic animals. The degree in Animal Behaviour and Welfare Science is accredited by the Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour, and satisfies the academic requirements for certification as a Clinical Animal Behaviourist.

Animal Behaviour and Welfare Science courses

BSc Animal Behaviour and Welfare Science (D390)

Why study Animal Behaviour and Welfare Science at Bristol?

Our Animal Behaviour and Welfare Science degree is unique in the UK for the breadth and depth of its underpinning science, which is set in a societal context. In the first year, teaching takes place in the School of Biological Sciences, where you will be given a foundation in advanced biology.

During the second and third years, you will be taught by the Animal Welfare and Behaviour Research Group in the new facilities at the School of Veterinary Sciences. Teaching is aimed at providing you with a scientific understanding of the biological principles underlying animal behaviour and welfare, and their application to current-day issues. Most teaching takes the form of small-group activities, including field trips, as well as work in labs and computer suites.

What kind of student would this course suit?

This course suits students who are interested in the biology of wild and domestic animals and want to learn more about how human activity affects them. It will also suit students who may prefer personalised, small group teaching.

How is this course taught and assessed?

Teaching is aimed at developing each your independent learning and working skills through small group teaching. Methods range from standard lectures and practicals to directed self-education tasks, formative essays, discussion groups and independent research projects. Assessment is via coursework and end of year exams.

What are my career prospects?

The broad-based scientific and quantitative content of the BSc degree course gives you an excellent foundation from which to pursue a research career in a wide range of biological disciplines. Many of our graduates go on to take higher degrees in animal related subjects (MSc, PhD). Others have found work with EU and UK government bodies concerned with policy on animal use, in industry as farm assurance advisers, with animal welfare charities or in wildlife parks. With further qualification, you may choose to work as a private practitioner dealing with behavioural problems in pets.

If you wish to pursue a career outside of the animal behaviour and welfare sector, you will be highly valued by employers for the transferable scientific and ethical skills you acquired on the course. Our graduates are equipped to gain employment in a wide range of areas, including management, teaching, finance and the media.

What do you particularly like about studying at Bristol?

In the second year, animal behaviour and welfare students go on ten visits to animal institutions which are fun, really informative and give students a good idea of different areas they could get involved in in the future.

Abbie Carr
BSc Animal Behaviour and Welfare Science