Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

This honours degree covers the biological, behavioural and ethical foundations of animal welfare alongside practical skills in observation, assessment and data analysis. The course emphasises a scientific approach to understanding how animals perceive their environments and how management, health and husbandry affect their well‑being.

• Core biological and behavioural modules: animal physiology, neurobiology, principles of ethology, and comparative behaviour across taxa.
• Welfare science and assessment: welfare theory and ethics, behavioural indicators of welfare, quantitative assessment methods and enrichment design.
• Practical and laboratory skills: animal handling and husbandry, behavioural observation techniques, experimental design, and statistical analysis of behavioural data.
• Research methods and project work: research design, critical appraisal of scientific literature, and a final-year independent research project or dissertation focusing on applied welfare or behaviour questions.
• Applied topics and electives: companion animal behaviour (including canine and feline behaviour), captive animal management, conservation behaviour, animal law and policy, and human–animal interactions.
• Work experience and placements: the programme typically offers opportunities for placements with animal charities, sanctuaries, zoos, veterinary practices and welfare organisations, and may include an optional placement year or short-term industry placements integrated into the degree.

Entry requirements

Typical applicants will have A‑level (or equivalent) qualifications with a preference for at least one science subject, or a level 3 vocational qualification in an appropriate area such as animal management, biological sciences or a related field. Applicants without traditional qualifications are considered if they can demonstrate relevant practical experience or prior learning. Good GCSEs or equivalent in English and mathematics (or demonstrated numeracy and communication competence) are usually expected. Admissions also consider personal statements and references that reflect interest and experience in working with animals.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to a wide range of careers in animal care, welfare and science. Typical roles include:

• Animal welfare officer or inspector for charities, local authorities or independent organisations
• Behaviour or training roles with companion animals, working dogs, or conservation programmes
• Positions in zoos, wildlife centres and sanctuaries, including animal care and welfare assessment
• Research technician roles in universities, research institutes or commercial laboratories focused on behaviour and welfare
• Conservation and fieldwork roles where knowledge of behaviour informs management
• Further professional training and study: veterinary medicine, postgraduate degrees (MSc, PhD) in animal behaviour, welfare science or related disciplines

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes combines applied, research‑informed teaching with practical training in well‑equipped laboratories and animal facilities. The programme benefits from staff with active research interests in behaviour and welfare, strong links with local and national animal charities, and placement partnerships that provide real‑world experience. The university’s location near Oxford gives easy access to a network of conservation organisations, veterinary practices and wildlife centres, while teaching emphasises small‑group practicals and support for independent research projects.