The Extended Diploma is a two year full-time study programme that includes both animal management and science. You will study 15 subjects, three of which are externally assessed. The programme enables you to gain knowledge and understanding in the areas of animal management and science alongside the development of practical and technical skills. It will provide you with the theoretical knowledge necessary to progress into employment, higher education or further training within a wide range of animal-related sectors.
The College animal collection houses a wide range of domestic and zoological species providing opportunities for you to develop your practical skills and abilities in a supportive environment.
Our animal zones enable the study of species ranging from small tropical cockroaches within our humidity zone to desert meerkats in our African zone and opportunities to work outdoors with our herd of alpaca and pygmy goats.
Entry requirements
To begin this study programme you will need...
Duration: 2 Years
- 4 GCSEs at grades A*-C or 9-4 ideally including English, maths and science
OR
- Animal Care Level 2 Diploma with Functional Skills
Course content
The programme focuses on animal management and science and covers a wide range of topics including animal biology, breeding and genetics and animal behaviour. There is a strong focus on ethics and welfare throughout the programme. In addition, you will develop the practical skills involved in carrying out and reporting on scientific investigations in the laboratory and undertake the study of animal metabolism and advanced animal nutrition.
Subject units:
Mandatory units include:
- Animal Breeding and Genetics
- Animal Biology
- Animal Welfare and Ethics
- Practical Animal Husbandry
- Animal Behaviour
- Animal Health and Disease
- Work Experience in the Animal Sector
- Investigative Research Project
- Practical Skills in Animal Science
- Animal Metabolism
- Advanced Animal Nutrition
You will also study a number of specialist units, which may include:
- Exotic Animal Husbandry
- Zoological Animal Health and Husbandry
- Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Management
- English and maths
If you don't already have GCSE English and maths grade A*-C, we will work with you to help you develop your maths and English skills.
You will need to complete a period of work experience with an employer in the sector. This will provide you with an opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills gained at College in the workplace.
- Personal development skills, study skills and employability skills
- Additional vocational learning and qualifications
Assessment methods
There are a range of assessment types throughout the programme, including assignments, presentations and practical assessments. There are also externally set assessments for Animal Breeding and Genetics, and Animal Welfare and Ethics and a written examination for Animal Biology lasting 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Qualifications
Animal Management BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma
You can also gain up to 168 UCAS points.
Further study and career options
On successful completion of this study programme you can progress to the Animal Management Foundation Degree, or seek employment in the animal care industry. The extended diploma attracts up to 168 UCAS points
Additional information
An equipment list will be provided prior to the start of the programme and includes steel toe cap boots or wellies and overalls. There will be the opportunity to go on trips. A study tour is arranged in the second year of the programme (subject to interest).
If commuting to Shuttleworth College will be difficult for you then you can choose to live in our halls of residence on campus. Priority is given to those who live the furthest distance from the College so make sure you book early to avoid disappointment. Visit our accommodation page for more information. Visit our accommodation page for more information - www.shuttleworth.ac.uk/accommodation.
To take part in this course there will be an additional fee of up to approximately £75 for required clothing, and £40 to pay for any trips. Opportunities will be available to visit other animal collections during the course. The work placement is a compulsory part of the course and will be monitored and assessed by College staff.
Funding information
All full-time Level 1 and Level 2 courses are now FREE for everyone, whatever their age. If you are looking to study a Level 3 qualification, courses are still free if you’re under 19 or 19-23 and studying your first full Level 3 qualification. If you’re over 23 or studying a second Level 3 qualification, you will need to pay a fee. Find out more on our financial support page at www.bedford.ac.uk/finance
If you are aged 19 or over you may qualify for an Advanced Learner Loan to help you pay the tuition fees for this course. Find out more at www.bedford.ac.uk/loans. You can also pay by instalments to help make the cost of this course more affordable.