Animal Behaviour and Training with Canine (Clinical) (with Foundation Year) (Hons) Hartpury University

Overview

The Animal Behaviour and Training with Canine (Clinical) (with Foundation Year) (Hons) at Hartpury University provides a robust academic foundation for students aspiring to become specialists in animal welfare and training. This degree combines scientific theory with extensive practical experience, ensuring graduates are prepared for professional roles in the animal sector. Students benefit from a supportive learning environment that transitions from fundamental biological principles to advanced clinical case studies.

Why Animal Behaviour and Training with Canine (Clinical) (with Foundation Year) (Hons) at Hartpury University?

Hartpury University has been recognised as the Specialist University of the Year 2026, reflecting its world-class facilities and teaching excellence. Students have access to a 360-hectare rural campus featuring a collection of over 70 species, including dedicated canine and equine therapy centres. The programme is formally recognised by the Animal Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC), providing a direct pathway toward professional accreditation as a Clinical Animal Behaviourist. Furthermore, the university ranks in the top 10 for academic support, ensuring students receive personalised guidance throughout their studies.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: GBP 18150 per year
• National fee: GBP 9790 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured to build expertise from a foundation level through to advanced clinical practice. Modules may include:

Year 1

• Academic Literacy for University Studies
• Professional Development in Practice
• Exploring Current Concepts
• Animal Studies
• Biological Principles for Land-Based Scientists

Year 2

• Animal Learning and Training
• Animal Health and Disease
• Anatomy and Physiology
• Animals in Society

Year 3

• Management and Training of the Animal
• Physiology of Animal Behaviour
• Understanding and Preventing Problematic Animal Behaviour
• Research Methods for Agricultural and Animal Scientists

Final Year

• Animal and Agriculture Dissertation
• Advanced Animal Training
• Anthrozoology
• Cognitive Ethology
• Clinical Case Studies for Veterinary Paraprofessionals

Careers with Animal Behaviour and Training with Canine (Clinical) (with Foundation Year) (Hons)

Graduates are well-equipped for diverse roles within the global animal industry, with 95% of alumni entering employment or further study within fifteen months. Many students progress into careers as clinical animal behaviourists, service dog handlers, or animal welfare officers. Potential employers include charitable organisations such as Guide Dogs for the Blind and the Blue Cross, as well as zoological parks, wildlife rehabilitation centres, and private training enterprises. The programme also provides the transferable skills necessary for laboratory work, rescue and rehabilitation management, or establishing a specialist animal behaviour consultancy.