Animal Science
Develop expertise in animal biology, health, nutrition, behaviour and welfare through hands-on practice and cutting-edge scientific learning.
UK students have the option to study Year 1 of this course, either for one year full-time or two years part-time, to achieve a CertHE. You can also choose to combine a foundation year with the CertHE. Contact us to discuss what you can do, or choose your preferred option when you apply.
It's possible to study this course part-time. You'll take the same modules as BSc/BA (Hons) students, but sometimes in a different order or in different years.
As a part-time student you'll typically study for twice as long as full-time students; for example if the BSc/BA (Hons) course takes three years, you can expect to study over six years, though for some courses the part-time length may differ.
in the East of England for undergraduates employed as managers, directors or senior officials.
Source: GOS 2025
Our BSc (Hons) Animal Science degree blends pure and applied science with hands-on animal management. You’ll explore animal biology, behaviour, health, genetics, nutrition and welfare while developing strong practical and communication skills. Through laboratory work, animal handling sessions, industry links and interactions with industry professionals, you’ll apply scientific principles to real-world contexts, preparing you for diverse animal-related careers or postgraduate study.
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Find out more about studying Animal Science at ARU in this short video.
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Gain a strong scientific foundation through a blend of pure and applied animal sciences
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Develop practical competence with a wide range of domesticated and captive species
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Learn from industry-recognised experts and guest speakers from leading animal organisations
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Benefit from hands-on animal handling sessions and dedicated laboratory facilities
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Apply your knowledge through field visits and real-world industry engagement
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Graduate equipped for careers in welfare, research, farming, veterinary support or progress onto further education
Study at an award-winning university
We were named Times Higher Education University of the Year 2023. We've also been awarded a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework – a reflection of the outstanding education we offer our students.
Careers
The BSc (Hons) Animal Science degree at Writtle was an incredible opportunity to gain invaluable skills and knowledge relating to animal health, welfare and behaviour, from lecturers that truly engage you and help you throughout your career.
This course will equip you with the strong scientific, practical and research skills valued by employers across the animal industry.
You’ll gain experience with a range of species, develop confident lab and field competencies, and build industry connections through field visits and guest speakers.
Teaching and modules
From the basics of animal biology to specialist topics such as behaviour and nutrition, our course equips you with the skills, knowledge and experience to understand, care for, and sustainably improve the lives of animals.
The course begins by covering the core principals of biology, ethics, behaviour, nutrition, genetics, health and essential practical and professional skills.
In your second and third year, you’ll deepen this knowledge and have the opportunity to specialise in areas that interest you, such as bioveterinary science or farm livestock. In your final year, you’ll complete a capstone project, conducting research a topic of your choice, applying your skills in data analysis, research and communication, while demonstrating your expertise across animal science and welfare.
Student experience
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Our students examine anatomical models to understand how animals move, function and thrive in our state-of-the-art Super Lab.
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Our students examining the cells, tissues and organs of animals on microscope slides. Every slide enhances their understanding of the complex structures that make up an animal’s body.
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Our students build meaningful bonds with animals, like these alpacas, emu and capybara, through hands-on experiences. Offering treats is just one way they learn to understand animal behaviour, welfare and the importance of positive human-animal interactions.
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Our students build meaningful bonds with animals, like these alpacas, emu and capybara, through hands-on experiences. Offering treats is just one way they learn to understand animal behaviour, welfare and the importance of positive human-animal interactions.
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Our students build meaningful bonds with animals, like these alpacas, emu and capybara, through hands-on experiences. Offering treats is just one way they learn to understand animal behaviour, welfare and the importance of positive human-animal interactions.
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Getting a closer look at a turtle: our students are hands-on in assessing the health and welfare of a range of animals. With keen eye for detail, they’ll learn to identify key indicators of health, preparing them for real-world challenges in the animal industry.
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Hands-on learning in action: our students explore real-world scenarios during live brief exercises in collaboration with their lecturer and industry partners to address complex animal welfare challenges.
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Our students engage in lively discussions, sharing ideas as they tackle real-world animal case studies. Our course offers a collaborative environment to build teamwork, enhance communication, critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Modules are subject to change and availability, and may vary by location. If you have the choice of optional modules, these are indicated with a *.
- Biology (30 credits)
- Ecology and Evolution (15 credits)
- Industry Skills and Professional Wellbeing (30 credits)
- Ethics of Animal Use (15 credits)
- Human-Animal Interaction (15 credits)
- Into ARU
- Ruskin Module (15 credits)
- Behaviour (15 credits)
- Nutritional Biochemistry (15 credits)
- Research Methods (15 credits)
- Animal Breeding and Development
- Animal Health Science (15 credits)
- High Welfare Animal Production (15 credits) *
- Livestock from Farm to Fork (15 credits) *
- Veterinary Interventions and Diagnostics (30 credits) *
- Major Project (30 credits)
- Applied Behaviour and Animal Welfare (15 credits)
- Advanced Animal Health Science (15 credits)
- Applied Nutrition and Feeding (15 credits)
- Genetics and Genomics (15 credits)
- Livestock Technology (15 credits) *
- Resilient Future Farming - Animal Production (15 credits) *
- Developments in Veterinary Science (30 credits) *
To prepare you for university study, you can take a foundation year at the start of this course. Find out more about foundation years.
- Academic and Personal Management Skills (20 credits)
- Biological Concepts (Introduction to Laboratory Skills) (20 credits)
- Maths for IT and Science (15 credits)
- Chemistry for Life Sciences (15 credits)
- Applied Industry Techniques (30 credits)
- Independent (Themed) Project (20 credits)
UK students have the option to study Year 1 of this course, either for one year full-time or two years part-time, to achieve a CertHE. You can also choose to combine a foundation year with the CertHE. Contact us to discuss what you can do, or choose your preferred option when you apply.
It's possible to study this course part-time. You'll take the same modules as BSc/BA (Hons) students, but sometimes in a different order or in different years.
As a part-time student you'll typically study for twice as long as full-time students; for example if the BSc/BA (Hons) course takes three years, you can expect to study over six years, though for some courses the part-time length may differ.
Read profiles of teaching and research staff on this course.
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Dr Nnenna UgwuLecturer in Animal Science
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Dr Sife ChikunyaSenior Lecturer
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Dr Jonathan AmoryAssociate Professor
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Dr Steven AllainLecturer in Animal Science
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Terri AmoryLecturer
Facilities
As an Animal Science student at ARU Writtle, you'll:
- study on our 150-hectare campus with its specialist animal centres and working farm
- develop practical competence with a range of species
- go on 'behind the scenes' trips and privileged experiences throughout your course
- learn from high-profile subject specialist staff.
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Experience hands-on learning in state-of-the-art laboratory spaces on our Lordship campus.
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Studying skeletons is essential in animal science, as they reveal how animals move, grow, and function, helping us understand anatomy, health, and performance
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The Titchmarsh Centre is a specialist animal-care facility where students work hands-on with diverse species to learn husbandry skills and put theory into practice.
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Experience our on-site working farm, home to sheep, pigs and cattle and set within our expansive 150-hectare campus.
