International Animal Welfare MSc

This distance learning programme can be done in 3 years, but you may choose to complete it in up to 6 years. 

Animal welfare is a critical global issue, fundamental to sustainability, food security, reliable scientific research and meeting societal expectations for our treatment of animals. The field urgently requires professionals who can navigate the complexity of these animal welfare issues from an international perspective.

The MSc in International Animal Welfare prepares you to become an expert with a contemporary understanding of animal welfare issues, able to devise the evidence-based solutions required to solve complex problems in animal welfare from an international perspective.

We equip our students with the skills and knowledge to make a real difference to the lives of animals worldwide.

Teaching approaches are grounded in real world animal contexts using problem-based learning, collaboration, and evidence basis. We prepare our students to be able to apply the range of communication skills needed to effectively communicate Animal Welfare to a wide range of stakeholders.

The programme supports students in developing as adaptive professionals who can learn independently, respond to rapid change and apply expertise responsibility across diverse contexts.

The SRUC Legacy

SRUC is highly renowned for their animal behaviour and welfare research and for driving innovation in animal welfare. SRUC jointly pioneered the development of the first MSc in Animal Welfare in the world. We have been at the forefront in research and educating leaders in animal behaviour and welfare for more than 35 years. We now want to expand our global impact by making this course accessible anywhere in the world through our distance learning programme.\
\
Ideal for a Career in Animal Welfare – Master of Science (MSc)\
\
If you are looking for advanced specialist training in animal welfare, the MSc in International Animal Welfare provides a comprehensive level of expertise, combining advanced taught modules with an original research dissertation. It is an ideal choice for professionals who want to lead the future of animal welfare.\
Why MSc at SRUC?\
Designed for busy professionals: our part-time online delivery allows you to balance your studies with full-time work and family. If you are working or volunteering in the field, you can apply the welfare knowledge you gain directly to your current role from day one.\
A Global Network: Join a thriving community of international learners and a vast network of contacts. Our platform allows you to collaborate with peers from different countries and backgrounds. Similarly, SRUC has a large network of researchers and contacts in diverse fields from welfare science, veterinary practice, conservation, charities, to policymaking, which brings real-world case studies/research, as well as potential for making professional networking.\
\
The opportunity to develop novel research based on your interests: You get a platform to transform your professional interests into an original contribution to the field. Through our self-directed dissertation, you will lead a significant research study based on your specific interests, under the guidance of world class researchers as supervisors. This gives you the opportunity to showcase your ability and autonomy in executing independent projects, analytical skills, and creative problem-solving. This can be a competitive advantage for employability, career prospects, or if you decide to further your studies into a PhD.\
If you would prefer not to take on the full commitment of doing our MSc, you can start taking our short courses, PgCert or PgDip and then transfer your credits to the MSc.