HND Animal Management

Key details

Award

Higher National Diploma 

UCAS Course Code

A001

Fees

£6,360 per year  

Awarding Body

Pearson 

Course Length

2 year 

Course Start Date

September 2026

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Course overview

The HND Animal Management course provides a strong progression route from Level 3 Animal Management qualifications, supporting you to develop higher-level knowledge and practical skills for careers in the animal management sector. Designed in line with industry needs, the course prepares you to adapt and progress in a constantly changing professional environment. 

You will study a broad range of topics covering animal health, behaviour and welfare, alongside practical animal husbandry and an understanding of how animals interact with people and society. As the course progresses, you will explore more specialist areas and develop research skills that allow you to investigate real-world issues within animal management. 

With a balance of theory, practical learning and independent study, this course equips you with the confidence, skills and professional awareness needed for employment in animal care, welfare and rehabilitation, or progression to further higher education. 

Why study with us?

Globally recognised awards from the UEA 

Enriched with the Graduate Practitioner Competencies and PAED First Aid 

Strong links with local employers and industry experts 

What you’ll study

YEAR ONE

In your first year, you will develop core knowledge of animal health, welfare and behaviour, alongside essential business and project management skills. Practical animal care and biological understanding underpin your learning, with opportunities to explore specialist areas such as exotic species and British wildlife. Modules include: 

  • Animal Health and Welfare 
  • Business and the Business Environment 
  • Managing a Successful Project 
  • Animal Behaviour in Society 
  • Animal Husbandry 
  • Animal Anatomy and Physiology 
  • Management of Exotic Species 
  • British Wildlife 
YEAR TWO

In your second year, you will build on this foundation by exploring advanced biological principles, research methods and specialist areas of animal management. You will critically examine human animal relationships, ethics and rehabilitation, while developing the skills needed for professional practice and progression. Modules include: 

  • Biological Principles 
  • Research Project 
  • Anthrozoology 
  • Evolution and Adaptations 
  • Therapy and Rehabilitation 
  • Ethics and Consultation 
  • Ornamental Aquatics and Fish Keeping 

Future careers

Upon completing the HND Animal Management degree, you’ll be well-equipped for a wide range of rewarding careers, including: 

ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER 

Salary: £20,000-£35,000+

WILDLIFE TECHNICIAN 

Salary: £20,000-£35,000+

ANIMAL BEHAVIOUR CONSULTANT 

Salary: £20,000-£40,000+

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Facilities

Study in a vibrant and welcoming space at our University and Professional Development Centre, designed to support learners of all ages and backgrounds. From our well-equipped library and quiet study zone to social spaces like Costa Coffee, to dedicated computer areas and an innovative XR Lab, you’ll have everything you need to excel. You’ll have access beyond timetabled hours, giving you the freedom to study, collaborate and work on projects whenever inspiration strikes. 

Explore our creative resources in more detail using our interactive 3D map:

Fees and entry requirements

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

UCAS Tariff: 48 
BTEC Level 3 Ext. Diploma: PPP 
A-Levels: DD 
Applicants who do not meet the published entry requirements will be considered on an individual basis based upon prior learning and relevant experience. 

FEES AND FUNDING

Tuition Fees
This course is £6,360 per year. Find out how to secure student finance here.

Course Related Costs
Please see the Course Factsheet for details on other course-related costs.

Funding and Bursaries
Please see Additional Funding and Bursaries for more information.

COURSE FACTSHEET

Click here to view the full Course Factsheet.

How to apply

Apply for this course through the University and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS), using the UCAS Hub. UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for the full-time undergraduate courses at University and Colleges in the United Kingdom.

Please search for ‘West Suffolk College‘ as the institution name on UCAS.

Progressing students at Eastern Education Group

If you are already a student within the Eastern Education Group (West Suffolk College, Abbeygate Sixth Form College or One Sixth Form College), or have been within the last three years, you can apply directly through our Internal Application Form and save up to £1,000 off your first-year tuition fees*.

*The College offers a discount to students who have studied a full-time qualification within the Eastern Education Group in the past three years. Fixed discounts of £1,000 on the first year of a degree course and £500 for first year of a HNC, HTQ or HND course. Students are only allowed to benefit from one discount within any three-year period. Higher or degree apprenticeships are not eligible for this award. The College reserves the right to remove this offer at any time. Other terms and conditions are not affected by this offer.  

Disclaimer: There is no need to apply for this award. Full terms and conditions as outlined apply. The progression discounts are in place for students applying to start at University Centre at Eastern Education Group for entry in the same year as their application. Students must be enrolled and in attendance at University Centre at Eastern Education Group.  

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