Level 3 National Diploma in Animal Management
About The Course
Please be aware that there is now a waiting list for our Level 3 National Diploma in Animal Management course. Applications will still be accepted and placed onto a waiting list from those applicants who meet the entry criteria for the qualification (see below) and have fully completed an application form. However, interviews/offers will not take place until a later date. If you have any queries, please email: enquiries@bca.ac.uk
Our Level 3 course provides a range of different sized options in terms of modules covered, level of study and providing opportunities for progression either into employment or higher education.
The majority of our students take a two-year programme completing an Extended Diploma in Animal Management which is equivalent to three A-levels. Students are able to develop practical skills in animal husbandry and gain underpinning knowledge of animal-related topics. Students will work with a range of animals inclusive of small mammals, farm livestock, exotic and zoo species housed in our extensive animal collection which is managed by our highly experienced and knowledgeable Animal Technicians.
The courses also provide an opportunity for students to develop employability skills alongside gaining confidence in becoming independent learners.
Entry Requirements
Five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English, maths and science. It is ideal for those wishing to enter employment on completion.
More information
This course can lead to employment within:
- Dog training, pet sitting/dog walking services
- Veterinary nursing
- Animal rehoming/welfare
- Animal science research
- Conservation fieldwork
- Media research
- Animal handling in the military/police
- Zoo-keeping
- Animal technician
Students can also progress (subject to meeting specified entry requirements) into higher education studying subjects such as animal behaviour and welfare, zoology, animal science, conservation and ecology or veterinary nursing.
This programme is made up of a mixture of modules including:
- Breeding and Genetics
- Animal Biology
- Animal Health & Diseases
- Animal Behaviour
- Animal Welfare & Ethics
- Advanced Animal Nutrition
- Investigate Research Project
- Industry Placement
- Exotic Animal Husbandry
- Ecology and Conservation
Working in the animal industry can be highly rewarding but it requires hard work and dedication. You will need to be comfortable with working outdoors in all weathers, be physically fit and able to carry out routine husbandry tasks e.g. checking livestock out on our 400 acre estate, dog walking, cleaning out enclosures, preparing a range of animal feeds and working with ALL of our animals to provide the highest possible standard of care. We have a strict dress code for working on our Animal Centre and, as such, you need to be prepared to follow instruction from all staff in order to maintain your own health, safety and welfare and that of our animals.
If you have a learning difficulty or disability or additional educational need, please let us know when you apply so that we can fully assess for any support you may require.
There are three qualifications available:
Level 3 Extended Certificate in Animal Management (1 Year) which can lead on to the Level 3 Diploma in Animal Management OR Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Animal Management (1 Year) leading on to the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Animal Management.
Each qualification can be studied as a standalone qualification (however, note that completion of a 1-year programme will have limitations in relation to progression, particularly on to University).
Assessment takes place through the completion of examinations, synoptic assessment, homework and successful completion of industry placement.
You will complete industry placement every week on our Animal Centre as part of your professional development and a set number of hours external industry placement (approximately 2 weeks, subject to confirmation).
BTEC
