Applied Animal Behaviour and Animal Welfare

Entry requirements

Honours degree (first or 2:1), or equivalent in Animal Science, Biology, Psychology, Zoology or Veterinary Science. Evidence of proficiency in English must be provided by those for whom English is not their first language (IELTS 7.0 or equivalent).

Months of entry

September

Course content

This course aims to enhance the knowledge and understanding of the scientific study of animal behaviour and animal welfare that can be applied effectively in science and practice.

This course is run in conjunction with the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies (also known as Dick Vet), which has an impressive international reputation in Animal Welfare. This creates a solid platform for education and research opportunities.

At the end of the course, graduates will be able to:

• have an increased understanding and awareness of the application of scientific principles to the study of animal behaviour and welfare, using farm animals;
• the ability to utilise effective, modern methods for describing and analysing scientific data;
• the ability to assess the welfare of animals in captivity and in the natural environment;
• the skills (dependent on practical experience) to be able to offer advice on applied animal behaviour and animal welfare issues;
• the capacity for considering philosophical debate relating to the use of animals by humans;
• awareness of the global issues that have an impact on animal welfare.

This programme has popular international appeal and is endorsed by many international organisations for its up-to-date understanding and application of the latest animal welfare methods and practices.

We provide students with an understanding of animal welfare that can be applied in animal research, management, care, production, inspection, assessment and preparation of legislation.

In addition to the core teaching team, we have many guest lecturers travel to Edinburgh each year to teach on the programme, allowing you to benefit from the experience and knowledge of professionals working throughout the animal behaviour and welfare community.

Our students benefit from the expertise of organisations such as:

• RSPCA
• WSPA
• SSPCA
• Humane Slaughter Association.

Almost 100% of the teaching is done at the Easter Bush Veterinary Centre (EBVC), which is situated 10km south of the city centre.

The MSc Applied Animal Behaviour and Animal Welfare degree is awarded by the University of Edinburgh.