Level 3 BTEC National Extended Diploma in Animal Management

Course overview

This two-year programme is designed for students aged 19 and
over who want to progress towards a career working with animals in a
management-support role. It is equivalent to studying three A levels and
combines advanced technical knowledge with valuable practical experience.

You will typically have some previous experience of working with companion
animals. Throughout the programme, you will develop your skills through:

• Lectures and classroom study


• Practical sessions and demonstrations


• Educational visits


• One day each week at a work placement


• Coursework, examinations and practical assessments

The course provides excellent preparation for employment in a range of
animal-related settings, including animal collections, pet shops, rescue centres
and small charities. It can also provide a strong foundation for progression
into higher education.

Modules

This comprehensive two-year Level 3 programme is equivalent in size to three A levels, combining animal science, welfare, behaviour and practical animal management. You will develop advanced scientific knowledge alongside the practical, research and professional skills needed for progression to university, apprenticeships or employment in the animal industry.

Across the two years, you will explore topics including:

• Animal biology
• Animal welfare and ethics
• Animal behaviour
• Animal health and disease
• Practical animal husbandry
• Animal breeding and genetics
• Investigative research
• Specialist areas of animal management
• Depending on the modules available, specialist topics may include Principles of Veterinary Nursing, Zoology and Exotics, among others.

The programme combines academic study with extensive practical animal experience and work experience, giving you the opportunity to apply your knowledge to real-world animal management. It is ideal if you are considering higher education or a professional career in areas such as animal behaviour and welfare, zoology, conservation, veterinary-related industries or animal care.

How will I be assessed?

Assessment takes place throughout the two-year programme, giving you regular opportunities to demonstrate your scientific knowledge, practical skills and professional development. You will complete a combination of internally assessed assignments and externally assessed examinations and tasks.

Internal assessment

Throughout the course, you will complete a range of written and practical assignments, which may include:

• Reports and case studies
• Practical demonstrations and observations
• Presentations
• Research activities
• Tasks based on realistic animal management situationsAs you progress, you will be expected to apply your knowledge with increasing confidence and independence.

External assessment

The following areas are assessed externally:

• Animal Biology
• Animal Welfare and Ethics
• Animal Breeding and Genetics

Assessment is continuous and the workload can be demanding, with several assignments and deadlines to manage at the same time. Regular attendance, good organisation, independent study and the ability to apply scientific and practical knowledge will help you succeed.

What is it like to be a student on this course?

The course is immersive, challenging and rewarding. Over two years, animal management becomes the main focus of your studies, combining science, practical husbandry, welfare, behaviour and independent research.

You’ll be treated increasingly as a developing animal professional, with responsibility for managing deadlines, working independently and applying your knowledge to complex situations.

The course prepares you for university, higher apprenticeships or employment in the animal sector.

Industry links

This programme values the diverse life and employment experience that adult learners bring to their studies, while helping you build the professional knowledge and skills needed for a career in the animal sector.

Through practical learning, industry-focused assignments, visits and engagement with animal organisations, you will explore how animal health, welfare, behaviour and husbandry are applied in real professional settings. This hands-on approach helps connect your existing experience with the expectations and opportunities of the animal care industry.

Work experience

Industry placements enhance your studies and are an important part of your course. They ensure you develop the key skills, knowledge and behaviours necessary to be successful in your chosen industry, resulting in you leaving college ready for the world of work. It is compulsory to undertake an element of work experience when studying a Level 1, 2, or 3 course. The number of hours you must complete will depend on your level of study.

Course Level:

• Level 1 – Minimum of 30 hours of industry placement
• Level 2 – Minimum of 75 hours of industry placement
• Level 3 – Minimum of 150 hours of industry placement (per year of your course)
• T Level – Minimum of 315 hours of industry placement

Entry requirements

4 GCSEs at Grade 4 and above to include English and Maths OR a Level 2 in a related subject plus English and Maths, at least grade 4

Progression routes