Animal Management (Pet Behaviour and Welfare) with Foundation Year

Shape the future of pet welfare, study companion animal behaviour on our ABTC-recognised course and build a successful career in the growing pet industry.
Our BSc (Hons) Animal Management (Pet Behaviour and Welfare) blends scientific theory with hands-on experience to prepare you for careers in animal behaviour, training and welfare. With UK pet ownership rising and demand for qualified professionals growing, you’ll develop the essential practical and academic skills needed to succeed. From working with a diverse range of species to gaining real clinical insight in our Pet Behaviour Clinic, you’ll graduate confident and career ready.

Why ARU?
• Gain hands-on experience with a wide range of species from day one



• Learn in our on-site Pet Behaviour Clinic, observing and supporting real consultations



• Benefit from expert teaching, guest lectures and connect through strong industry links



• Study a holistic curriculum covering behaviour, nutrition, health, welfare, ethics, legislation and business



• Recognised by the ABTC, with eligibility for Associate Membership of the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors



• Gain real-world experience through field trips to rescue centres, wildlife organisations and other institutions



You’ll start by learning about the fundamentals of animal management, covering biology, ethics, and essential practical and professional skills.
In years 2-3, as well as building on your knowledge of these core topics, you’ll focus on animal behaviour, training and welfare as they pertain to companion animals, and develop the specific professional skills you need to work as a pet trainer or behaviourist.
You’ll round off your degree with an independent research project on a relevant topic of your choice, drawing on everything you’ve learned over the three years.
All BSc students study the same modules (with the addition of foundation year modules for those taking the 4-year course). Cert HE students study Year 1 BSc modules.

At ARU, you’ll be supported from day one with wellbeing services, money advice and careers guidance to help you through university and beyond.

Their courses are built around the skills and experience employers value. ARU are proud to be in the top 20% of UK universities for teaching quality (TEF 2023), and ranked #1 in the East of England, and #8 in the UK, for UG graduates in senior roles 15 months after graduation (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2025). You'll have access to fantastic facilities thanks to £95m of investment - think SuperLabs, TV studios, law courts, mock hospital wards, gaming studios and more.

Wherever you're heading, ARU will help you get there.