Animal Behaviour BSc (Hons)
Overview
This course delves into the fascinating world of animal behaviour, exploring the underlying mechanisms, evolutionary significance, and practical applications of animal actions.
It's an advanced, research-led study that covers behavioural ecology, focusing on evolutionary processes, adaptation, and cognitive abilities. The course also focuses on why animals behave the way they do and how their environment shapes their actions.
The course highlights modern topics like animal learning, communication, and genetics. And the course blends biology and psychology to study wild animal behaviour and its connection to conservation efforts.
Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of animal cognition, communication, social behaviour, and more. Also, they can choose to study marine life, brain science, or environmental conservation.
Objectives
- Develop a foundation in theory and research methods.
- Develop practical skills in observation, data collection, and analysis.
- Apply knowledge to real-world challenges.
- Prepare for academia, research, wildlife conservation, and animal industry careers.
Prerequisites
- Strong academic background in biology, chemistry, and mathematics.
- Good observation skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- A keen interest in animal behaviour and natural sciences.
- Willingness to participate in fieldwork and laboratory work.
Curriculum Outline
- Getting Started at the University of Aberdeen
- Frontiers in Biological Sciences
- Diversity of Life 1
- Introductory Psychology I: Concepts and Theory
- Ecology and Environmental Science
- Diversity of Life 2
- Introductory Psychology II: Concepts and Theory
- The Cell
- Biological Enhanced Skills Training (BEST)
- Ecology
- Introduction to Genetics
- Comparative Physiology 1
- Statistical Analysis of Biological Data
- Animal Management and Welfare
- Behavioural Biology
- Gateway to Honours Project
- Practical Skills in Animal Behaviour
- SBS Honours Project
- Behavioural Ecology and Conservation
Teaching Method
- Lectures
- Seminars
- Tutorials
- Practical classes
- Field work
- Research projects
Modules
- Animal Physiology and Behaviour
- Introduction to Ecology and Conservation
- Principles of Biology
- Quantitative Techniques and Tools for Biologists
- Professional and Personal Development - Level 4
- Animal Learning and Training
- Biological Bases of Behaviour
- Vertebrate Biology
- Ruskin Module
- Practical Skills for Animal Behaviour
- Evolutionary Bases of Behaviour
- Biological Research Skills
- Professional and Personal Development - Level 5
- GIS and Spatial Ecology
- Animal Health and Disease
- Behavioural Ecology
- Cognition, Evolution and Behaviour
- Applied Animal Behaviour and Animal Welfare
- Human-Animal Interactions
- Wildlife Conservation
- Undergraduate Major Project
- Population Ecology and Wildlife Management
- Tropical Ecology and Management
- Zoos and Zoo Animal Management
Assessment Methods
- Essays
- Coursework assignments
- Examinations
- Presentations
- Laboratory reports
- Peer mentoring
- Dissertation
Course Duration
This programme may vary depending on the institutions and countries, but the general standard options in the UK are:
- 04 years (Full-time).
Facilities
- Well-equipped laboratories
- Workshops and seminars
- Animal housing facilities
- Fieldwork opportunities
- Access to research centres and institutes
- Library and digital resources
- Behavioural observation rooms
- Modern computer labs
- Physiology labs
- Ethology labs
- Neurobiology labs
- Animal cognition labs
- Molecular biology labs
- Marine biology labs
- Conservation biology labs
- Student societies and clubs
- Career services
- Counselling and support services
Career Pathways
- Research scientist
- Wildlife biologist
- Zoologist
- Conservation officer
- Animal behaviour consultant
- Animal trainer
- Veterinary technician
- Animal welfare officer
- Animal Care Technician
- Veterinary Assistant
- Animal Keeper
- Ecological Consultant
- Invasive Species Surveyor
- Conservation Research Consultant
- Postgraduate Researcher
- Teacher
Fees and Fundings
- Tuition fees are £17,500 - £31,670 per year and may vary depending on the institution.
- Scholarships, grants, and financial opportunities are available.
- Government loan aid is available.
Entry Requirements
- A Levels: Standard - BBC*, Minimum - BCC*
- IELTS Overall - 6.0 , Minimum - 5.5 in all skills
- GCSEs at grade C, or grade 4, or above, including English and Maths
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- A strong academic record
Field Work and Internships
- Participate in field trips to diverse ecosystems, such as forests, wetlands, and marine environments, to observe animal behaviour in their natural habitats.
- Gain practical experience in various settings, including zoos, wildlife parks, research institutions, and animal welfare organisations.
- Contribute to conservation efforts by volunteering at local wildlife sanctuaries or animal shelters.
- Undertake independent or group research projects, collecting data on animal behaviour and analysing results.
Certifications
- Clinical Animal Behaviourist (CCAB)
- Applied Animal Behaviour Consultant (APBC)
- Certified Animal Welfare Specialist (CAWS)
- Certified Humane Animal Handler (CHAH)
- Certified Professional Animal Trainer (CPAT)
- Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (CAAB)
- Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA)
- Certified Cat Behavior Consultant (CCBC)
- Certified Equine Behavior Consultant (CEBC)
- Conservation certifications
- Certified Professional Zoologist (CPZ)
- Certified Wildlife Biologist (CWB)
- Certified Wildlife Technician (CWT)
- Certified Wildlife Rehabilitator (CWR)
- Certified Wildlife Manager (CWM)
- Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT)
- Certified Veterinary Assistant (CVA)
- Certified Wildlife Educator (CWE)
- Certified Humane Educator (CHE)
- Certified Pet Loss Professional (CPLL)
Intakes
Typically, it takes twice a year (fall and spring), but may vary like:
- Fall (September/October)
- Spring (January/February)
- Summer (May/June)
Student Testimony
"So far the best thing about my course is that it involves many aspects of modules, from biology related modules to chemistry related modules and I find variety in what I'm learning very interesting." Says - "Emma Heeley, Zoology with Animal Behaviour BSc student."
Frequently asked questions
Animal Behaviour is the scientific study of animal actions, focusing on understanding the underlying causes and evolutionary significance of these behaviours.