MSc Animal Science (1)

About the course

The course is delivered at University Centre Myerscough and awarded by the University of Central Lancashire. The MSc Animal Science develops a systematic understanding and a critical awareness of current issues at the forefront of animal science. Enhancing the student’s understanding of scientific techniques applicable to practise, research and scholarship in animal science, the course encourages the original application of knowledge to address complex issues.

This MSc Animal Science, awarded by the University of Central Lancashire, recognises the multidiscipline approach of the subjects. The course aims to extend the student’s existing expertise to the full range of skills and knowledge required to inform and lead industry developments. The MSc will encourage debate and critical evaluation of industry practices and scientific research within this field. The course will also enable students to reflect on current issues and develop problem solving skills which encourage originality of thought.

Year 1

Year 1

Animal Bioscience

To address the fundamental aspects of animal bioscience including metabolism, genetics, nutrition, behaviour, care, health, and the social and environmental impact of domestic animals

Applied Animal Behaviour and Welfare Science

To examine and evaluate current stress indicators of welfare, including behavioural attributes and physiological parameters.

Comparative Animal Physiology

To explain the concept and importance of maintaining physiological homeostasis at, molecular, cellular and tissue and body system levels.

Current Issues and Innovation in the Animal Industry

A quest for solutions for complex issues currently impacting on animal welfare and the animal industry, incorporating consideration of cross-discipline techniques and approaches.

Masters Dissertation

The dissertation is a triple module and allows students to design and conduct a substantial piece of independent, supervised research in the field of equine science. The dissertation is an independent piece of academic work which allows the student to identify and work in an area of interest to them and manage the research process to agreed deadlines.

Research Methodology and Design

This module provides students with the essential personal, organisational, management, theoretical and statistical skills needed to work at Postgraduate Level. It will explore research philosophies, research process and design and the process of questionnaire development and design. The module will develop skills in advanced data organisation, presentation, dissemination and problem solving.

Evidence Based Animal Husbandry

Application of evidence based research to include aquariums, research facilities and zoological collections will allow students to develop a broad knowledge-based approach to solving specific problems and for suggesting management.

Entry requirements & additional information

Entry requirements

Applications are sought from individuals possessing a minimum of Lower Second Class (2.2) Honours Degree (or equivalent) in a related discipline.

Candidates not possessing an Honours Degree at the above grade but with relevant professional qualifications and experience will be welcomed. All non-standard applicants may be interviewed to assess suitability for the course.

Career experience plus evidence of study skills may also be considered. Consideration will be given to non-traditional qualifications and relevant work experience. Applicants are encouraged to produce evidence of their potential to benefit from the course. Applicants who believe they may be eligible for Accreditation of Prior Experience/Learning (APE/L) for certain modules will be considered on an individual basis.

Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to have an English qualification to IELTS 6.5 or equivalent.

All offers may be subject to successful interview.

Learning and assessment

Learning Environment:

This course will utilise the new animal centre on site to include the dairy, beef and sheep units off site and equine facilities where appropriate. Students will also have access to specialist IT hardware and software as well as to Myerscough's virtual learning environment. Learning activities on the course are diverse, including lectures, seminars, tutorials, workshops and practical sessions. Students will be expected to undertake extensive independent study and research to support lectures, seminars and assessments.

Assessment:

Students will face a variety of assessments, including written reports, essays, literature reviews, examinations, dissertation, research proposal and presentations.

Other Opportunities:

Students are encouraged and supported to submit their research to relevant journals or conferences, subject to the successful application for scholarship funding or self-funding.

Progression

On successful completion of the course, students may apply for a PhD.

Careers

Graduates will be in a position to apply for posts in the animal and related industries with examples of possible careers including:

Training assistance dogs

Welfare inspectors

Zoological education/research/keeping

Research and development

Local authority/Defra/HM customs animal welfare officers

Pet behaviour advisors

Professional accreditations

All students are encouraged to pursue membership of the Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour (ASAB) and British Society of Animal Science (BSAS) as well as pursuing scholarships and travel awards with other professional animal organisations.

Learning support

You can contact the College Inclusive Learning team or UCLan Student Services (or let one of the course team know that you have a disability or an issue related to your disability). With your agreement information will be passed on to the relevant service

Special requirements

Extra Costs

Additional costs for items that are essential for the course include:

Black warehouse coat, £12
Black combat style trousers £15
Laboratory Coat - £15
Strong Boots or Wellingtons and waterproof trousers - £50

Additional costs for opportunities and items that are optional for the course include:

Binoculars £30
Field Trips and Visits – optional S Africa £3,500

Animal Studies

Britain is well regarded as a nation of animal lovers, from companion pets to large animal collections. This has resulted in a multi-million pound industry, ranging from well known national pet feed companies to pet stores, catteries and kennels and numerous other businesses providing for the needs of animals.

If you care about animals and have a deep interest in their health and wellbeing, Myerscough provides an excellent opportunity for you to further your studies. You'll develop a range of skills and have the opportunity to care for a range of animals including dogs, cats, rabbits and ferrets, farm animals, reptiles and amphibians and a range of invertebrates.

Our Animal Studies Centre

Myerscough College’s Animal Studies Centre has tripled in size after the completion of a £3 million extension and major refurbishment. The new Animal Studies Centre features specialist classrooms, dedicated indoor and outdoor areas for different animal groups, as well as spacious private rooms, reception and study areas, all fully equipped with the latest I.T technology.

The Animal Studies Centre also offers a range of services to the public, from grooming and healthcare through to behaviour classes and hydrotherapy for injury recovery.

Our Animals

As part of your course at Myerscough College, you'll get to work with a wide range of animals, from dogs and cats through to chameleons, iguanas and snakes, fish and invertebrates. You'll also get to help look after the College Alpacas, Bailey and Icicle - two of the department's biggest characters.

A choice of learning locations

As well as our £3m Animal Studies Centre at our Preston Campus, we also offer Animal Studies courses at our learning centres, including our new Animal Studies Centre at Croxteth Park in Liverpool, Walton Hall in Warrington and Witton Park in Blackburn.

Scottish Wildcats

Myerscough College plays a key role in the conservation of Britain's most iconic native predator, the Scottish Wildcat as part of Scottish Wildcat Action's conservation and breeding programme. There could be as few as 100 of these timid and elusive cats left in the wild and this work goes a long way to ensuring their survival.

Blue Cross Rehoming Centre

The Animal Studies Centre is now officially working in partnership with Blue Cross and now has a rehoming centre on the Myerscough Campus. This gives a fabulous experience for students who get the opportunity to work in a real life rehoming environment, gaining a valuable insight into the workings of a cattery and developing skills for employment within the animal sector.

Latest news, Animal studies

Our Partnership with UCLan

All our Higher Education programmes are awarded by the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan). Myerscough College is an Associate School of the University of Central Lancashire, a dynamic, vibrant and contemporary university located in Preston city centre. UCLan is one of the largest universities in the UK with world-leading and internationally excellent research areas. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses.