This Extended Diploma challenges you with a combination of practical and theory sessions. Theory sessions in this course include animal behaviour, wildlife rehabilitation, ecology, animal welfare and zoo management. Practical work takes place at the college's Animal Care Unit, where you will develop skills in handling and caring for a range of small and large animals. We work closely with the Blue Cross animal charity on our rehoming centre for cats.

This course forms part of a programme study which will be tailored individually to boost your employability and which will include Maths and English as necessary.

The course is made up of a selection of different modules. You will study these modules over the two years and put the skills you learn to use by accumulating 300 hours of work experience.

Modules/Units include:

• Animal Accommodation
• Animal Anatomy & Physiology
• Animal Biology
• Animal Feeding
• Animal Handling and Safe Working
• Animal Health
• Animal Welfare and Breed Development
• Ecology and Conservation
• Exotic Health and Husbandry
• Investigative Project
• Wildlife Rehabilitation
• Work Experience
• Zoological Health

Fees for 2018/19 entry: £3,490

Please note: Fees are for 2018/19 entry and are for home and EU students. Students aged 16 to 18, or those aged 16 to 25 who have a valid EHCP, are not charged for course fees. For more information about financial support for students, please click here.

New Students

Four GCSEs at grade 4 or above including Science, English and maths.

Progressing Students

Level 2 in Animal Care with English and maths at grade 4 or above and a Distinction grade for a level 2 Science Unit.A satisfactory reference for attitude, behaviour, attendance and punctuality.

This course will give you suitable knowledge to enable you to progress on to a Degree course. Successful students have gone on to zoology, animal behaviour and animal health degrees. Some students have found work within animal welfare charities, zoos and veterinary surgeries.

Potential career routes in the Animal Studies industry:

• Catteries
• City farms
• Conservation
• Dog groomer
• Kennels
• Pet shops
• Quarantine work
• Rescue centres
• Stables
• Teaching
• Uniformed services
• Veterinary nurse
• Zoos

Essential Personal Protective Equipment

Students are required to purchase steel toe-capped boots, overalls and waterproof clothing. These can be purchased through our recommended supplier, details of which are available at enrolment.

Last updated – 16/10/2018