Specialise in canine massage and hydrotherapy and learn how canine therapists enhance dog wellbeing. You’ll gain practical experience in our specialist canine centre.
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
As a student in Writtle you’ll explore subjects like canine anatomy, physiology and biomechanics, with a special emphasis on canine massage and hydrotherapy.
Our course combines vocational and academic studies to equip you for a career in canine therapy.
You’ll work towards a recognised Level 3 Hydrotherapy qualification as you take part in commercially run sessions with real cases, in our Canine Therapy Clinic
Our 3-year degree course is accredited by the Animal Health Professions Register (AHPR). As a graduate, you'll be able to apply for membership of the Register.
You'll also be able to register with the National Association of Registered Canine Hydrotherapists and Canine Hydrotherapy Association thanks to the hydrotherapy qualification in this course.
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.
Work experience in the hydrotherapy clinics really helped me gain confidence and see how a centre is run. Thank you for allowing me to build the business of my dreams!
Our BSc (Hons) Canine Therapy is a 'two in one' qualification as it includes a vocational award. This means that as a graduate, you'll be ready to work as a therapist – either independently or as part of a clinical team.
As the course has a focus on hydrotherapy and massage, you may choose to work in these popular areas. You may find yourself helping with post-surgery recovery, managing chronic conditions, increasing the range of motion and balance in senior patients, enhancing the performance of athletes, helping with a weight control programme or improving the general wellbeing of family pets.
You'll be able to see the importance of putting evidence-based theory into practice, to help animals from all walks of life.
Learn to recognise the signs of pain and disease in dogs, and explore therapeutic techniques such as massage and hydrotherapy.
You’ll cover canine anatomy and physiology, the biomechanics of canine movement and how it can be analysed. You’ll also explore factors which affect health and performance such as nutrition and feeding, and behaviour management.
The Canine Hydrotherapy module together with the Advanced Principles and Practice of Hydrotherapy module incorporates the ten mandatory units of the SEG award Level 3 Certificate in Canine Hydrotherapy. These modules include a practical placement in our Canine Rehabilitation Clinic.
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 *.
To prepare you for university study, you can take a foundation year at the start of this course. Find out more about foundation years.
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.
Our highly qualified teaching team includes experienced veterinary physiotherapists and veterinary surgeons.
Lecturer in Veterinary Physiotherapy
Lecturer
Lecturer in Veterinary Physiotherapy
Demonstrator in Veterinary Physiotherapy
Lecturer
Study Canine Therapy at ARU in Writtle and use specialist facilities including our Lordship Canine Centre. Our Canine Therapy Clinic features a hydrotherapy pool, two underwater treadmills and clinical consultation rooms in a commercially operated environment that mimics real-world settings.
You can also access our Pet Behaviour Centre, a dedicated facility for pet behaviourists. It features a consultation room, outdoor paddocks and a training hall. It's a commercial space where students are able to observe activities.
UK students, apply through Clearing for a September 2025 start
Call our Clearing line
Loading...