Animal Behaviour BSc (Hons)

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

  1. Develop a foundation in theory and research methods.
  2. Develop practical skills in observation, data collection, and analysis.
  3. Apply knowledge to real-world challenges.
  4. Prepare for academia, research, wildlife conservation, and animal industry careers.

Prerequisites

  1. Strong academic background in biology, chemistry, and mathematics.
  2. Good observation skills and attention to detail.
  3. Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  4. A keen interest in animal behaviour and natural sciences.
  5. Willingness to participate in fieldwork and laboratory work.

Curriculum Outline

  1. Getting Started at the University of Aberdeen
  2. Frontiers in Biological Sciences
  3. Diversity of Life 1
  4. Introductory Psychology I: Concepts and Theory
  5. Ecology and Environmental Science
  6. Diversity of Life 2
  7. Introductory Psychology II: Concepts and Theory
  8. The Cell
  9. Biological Enhanced Skills Training (BEST)
  10. Ecology
  11. Introduction to Genetics
  12. Comparative Physiology 1
  13. Statistical Analysis of Biological Data
  14. Animal Management and Welfare
  15. Behavioural Biology
  16. Gateway to Honours Project
  17. Practical Skills in Animal Behaviour
  18. SBS Honours Project
  19. Behavioural Ecology and Conservation

Teaching Method

  1. Lectures
  2. Seminars
  3. Tutorials
  4. Practical classes
  5. Field work
  6. Research projects

Modules

  1. Animal Physiology and Behaviour
  2. Introduction to Ecology and Conservation
  3. Principles of Biology
  4. Quantitative Techniques and Tools for Biologists
  5. Professional and Personal Development - Level 4
  6. Animal Learning and Training
  7. Biological Bases of Behaviour
  8. Vertebrate Biology
  9. Ruskin Module
  10. Practical Skills for Animal Behaviour
  11. Evolutionary Bases of Behaviour
  12. Biological Research Skills
  13. Professional and Personal Development - Level 5
  14. GIS and Spatial Ecology
  15. Animal Health and Disease
  16. Behavioural Ecology
  17. Cognition, Evolution and Behaviour
  18. Applied Animal Behaviour and Animal Welfare
  19. Human-Animal Interactions
  20. Wildlife Conservation
  21. Undergraduate Major Project
  22. Population Ecology and Wildlife Management
  23. Tropical Ecology and Management
  24. Zoos and Zoo Animal Management

Assessment Methods

  1. Essays
  2. Coursework assignments
  3. Examinations
  4. Presentations
  5. Laboratory reports
  6. Peer mentoring
  7. Dissertation

Course Duration

This programme may vary depending on the institutions and countries, but the general standard options in the UK are:

  1. 04 years (Full-time).

Facilities

  1. Well-equipped laboratories
  2. Workshops and seminars
  3. Animal housing facilities
  4. Fieldwork opportunities
  5. Access to research centres and institutes
  6. Library and digital resources
  7. Behavioural observation rooms
  8. Modern computer labs
  9. Physiology labs
  10. Ethology labs
  11. Neurobiology labs
  12. Animal cognition labs
  13. Molecular biology labs
  14. Marine biology labs
  15. Conservation biology labs
  16. Student societies and clubs
  17. Career services
  18. Counselling and support services

Career Pathways

  1. Research scientist
  2. Wildlife biologist
  3. Zoologist
  4. Conservation officer
  5. Animal behaviour consultant
  6. Animal trainer
  7. Veterinary technician
  8. Animal welfare officer
  9. Animal Care Technician
  10. Veterinary Assistant
  11. Animal Keeper
  12. Ecological Consultant
  13. Invasive Species Surveyor
  14. Conservation Research Consultant
  15. Postgraduate Researcher
  16. Teacher

Fees and Fundings

  1. Tuition fees are £17,500 - £31,670 per year and may vary depending on the institution.
  2. Scholarships, grants, and financial opportunities are available.
  3. Government loan aid is available.

Entry Requirements

  1. A Levels: Standard - BBC*, Minimum - BCC*
  2. IELTS Overall - 6.0 , Minimum - 5.5 in all skills
  3. GCSEs at grade C, or grade 4, or above, including English and Maths
  4. Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  5. A strong academic record

Field Work and Internships

  1. Participate in field trips to diverse ecosystems, such as forests, wetlands, and marine environments, to observe animal behaviour in their natural habitats.
  2. Gain practical experience in various settings, including zoos, wildlife parks, research institutions, and animal welfare organisations.
  3. Contribute to conservation efforts by volunteering at local wildlife sanctuaries or animal shelters.
  4. Undertake independent or group research projects, collecting data on animal behaviour and analysing results.

Certifications

  1. Clinical Animal Behaviourist (CCAB)
  2. Applied Animal Behaviour Consultant (APBC)
  3. Certified Animal Welfare Specialist (CAWS)
  4. Certified Humane Animal Handler (CHAH)
  5. Certified Professional Animal Trainer (CPAT)
  6. Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (CAAB)
  7. Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA)
  8. Certified Cat Behavior Consultant (CCBC)
  9. Certified Equine Behavior Consultant (CEBC)
  10. Conservation certifications
  11. Certified Professional Zoologist (CPZ)
  12. Certified Wildlife Biologist (CWB)
  13. Certified Wildlife Technician (CWT)
  14. Certified Wildlife Rehabilitator (CWR)
  15. Certified Wildlife Manager (CWM)
  16. Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT)
  17. Certified Veterinary Assistant (CVA)
  18. Certified Wildlife Educator (CWE)
  19. Certified Humane Educator (CHE)
  20. Certified Pet Loss Professional (CPLL)

Intakes

Typically, it takes twice a year (fall and spring), but may vary like:

  1. Fall (September/October)
  2. Spring (January/February)
  3. 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.