BSc (Hons) Animal Welfare Science

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The BSc (Hons) Animal Welfare Science from Scotland's Rural College (SRUC) is designed for individuals passionate about understanding and improving the lives of animals. You will explore the complex interplay between animal behaviour, physiology, and human interactions, gaining a scientific foundation crucial for addressing contemporary welfare challenges. This programme equips you to critically assess welfare issues, from domestic pets and livestock to captive wild animals, by delving into topics like animal sentience, positive welfare, and the ethical considerations surrounding animal use. If you are driven to make a tangible difference in animal well-being, this degree offers a comprehensive and scientifically rigorous pathway.

This full-time, four-year on-campus degree immerses you in animal biology, behaviour, and human-animal interactions. You will develop essential quantitative skills through modules in data science and research methods, culminating in an independent honours dissertation in your final year where you can pursue a research topic of your choice. Throughout your studies, you will engage with practical applications, from assessing animal emotions and formulating diets to understanding host-pathogen interactions and applying machine learning to welfare data. You will graduate with a robust skill set, prepared for diverse careers in animal welfare organisations, research, policy, and beyond.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program provides a comprehensive education in animal welfare science, covering foundational knowledge and advanced applications. Students will explore animal behavior, management, nutrition, genetics, and conservation, alongside essential research skills and statistics. The curriculum progresses to specialized topics such as welfare physiology, epidemiology, and human behavior change, culminating in an honors dissertation. This course equips graduates with the scientific understanding and practical skills necessary to contribute to the field of animal welfare.

1 Year 1 / Semester 1

Animal Behaviour
Keeping and Managing Animals
Basic Animal Nutrition and Digestion
Introduction to Genetics
Data Science and Computing

2 Year 2 / Semester 2

Applications of Animal Behaviour
Animals and Society
Animal Conservation
Nutrient Requirements and Diet Formulation
Animal Breeding, Selection and Technologies
Research Skills and Statistics

3 Year 3 / Semester 3

Learning and Cognition Applied to Animal Welfare
Welfare Physiology
Host-pathogen interactions
Advanced Research Methods
Epidemiology

4 Year 4 / Semester 4

Human Behaviour Change
Honours Dissertation

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 21,627.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 21,627.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 21,627.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 21,627.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 86,508.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 976.00 - USD 1,220.00
Food & Groceries USD 4,833.00 - USD 6,444.00
Transport USD 967.00 - USD 1,128.00
Utilities & Bills USD 2,417.00 - USD 6,847.00
Estimated Total USD 8,217.00 - USD 14,419.00

Living cost estimates are based on SRUC King's Buildings.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

95%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Early Childhood & Primary EducationEdTech & E-LearningEducation Policy & AdministrationEnergy Engineering & InfrastructureEnergy Storage & TechnologyFisheries & AquacultureForestry & LoggingHealthcare Administration & ManagementHigher Education & UniversitiesRefining & Petrochemicals

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Animal and Plant Health Agency

CVS Group plc

Nomad Energy

SRUC

Why Study BSc (Hons) Animal Welfare Science at Scotland's Rural College (SRUC)

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at Scotland's Rural College (SRUC) in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BSc (Hons) Animal Welfare Science at Scotland's Rural College (SRUC)

Can I work while studying?

During your studies, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is necessary for your degree course.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English language requirements, you can take tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. For instance, TOEFL requires an overall score of 80, while IELTS requires a minimum overall score of 6.0.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Possible job titles include Animal Welfare Officer, Ethologist, Animal Behaviorist, Veterinary Technician, and Research Scientist.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program covers critical topics such as animal behaviour and ethics of animal use. You will gain a comprehensive understanding of animal biology and management within the context of welfare and sustainability.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BSc (Hons) Animal Welfare Science program has an intake in September. Make sure to apply ahead of time to secure your spot.
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