Bachelor of Applied Science (Animal Management and Welfare)

Bachelor

This degree programme addresses the demand for ethical professionals in the animal care and management industry. From day one, you'll work with animals and also in labs, learning and applying skills as you go, meaning you'll be work-ready for a career in animal management and welfare.

Key details

Degree Type

Bachelor

Intake Months

Feb, Jul

Domestic Fees

$7,300 per year

International Fees

$25,220 per year

About this course

Animal management and welfare is a rapidly growing field of study and work. If you're keen to get stuck in right away, this unique programme could be the next step you need to take in your career.

In it, you'll develop in-depth knowledge and understanding of animal behaviour modification, health and welfare, handling and husbandry, conservation, and human/animal interactions.

Highlights

A holistic approach that combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills to evaluate the welfare, management and training needs of wild, exotic, and companion animals
Practical experience in simulated and real-world situations
Visits to various animal welfare organisations and voluntary groups; you may even be able to undertake part of your studies at one of their sites
A chance to complete a research project in an area of your own interest in order to develop the skills you'll need for a career in your chosen field
Relevant and current teaching: our lecturers keep up with industry trends through links with zoos in Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington and Christchurch, the Department of Conservation, MPI (Ministry of Primary Industries) Biosecurity and the SPCA
A teaching team of highly qualified and experienced animal behaviour experts, animal trainers, animal welfare scientists, and veterinarians

Double major

Can't decide between animals or the environment? Study a double major and you'll get the best of both worlds, with a selection of animal- and environment-related courses.

Studying for a double major is highly recommended. Double majors further grow your knowledge and capabilities, and it makes you more employable and competitive in the job market.

Entry requirements

Academic requirements

For this programme, you will need the following:

42 credits at NCEA Level 3 or higher including:
- 14 credits in two different approved subjects; and
- 14 credits from up to two subjects (approved or non-approved);
8 credits at NCEA Level 2 or higher in English or Te Reo Maori (4 in reading, 4 in writing);
14 credits in NCEA Level 1 or higher in Mathematics or Pangarau;

If you don't meet the academic criteria above, we have a range of Foundation and Bridging Education programmes which will help you prepare for further academic study.

English requirements

If English is not your first language you will also need one or more of the following:

Have achieved NCEA Level 3 and New Zealand University entrance;
Be able to provide evidence you satisfy our criteria for existing English proficiency;
Have achieved at least one English proficiency outcome in the last two years;

If you don't meet the English criteria above, we have a range of English Language programmes available, depending on your current level of ability.

If you don't meet these requirements, you may still apply under special or discretionary entrance. If you've successfully completed the New Zealand Diploma in Veterinary Nursing, you can cross-credit multiple papers towards admission to this programme.

For more information download the programme regulations:

Programme Regulations

Study locations

Mt Albert

Career pathways

- Animal welfare scientific officer - Animal behaviour and/or welfare consultant - Welfare education officer - Animal welfare inspector - Animal handler

Unitec Institute of Technology