Animal Behaviour, Welfare and Conservation Science

Animal behaviour, welfare, and conservation science draws together three interconnected fields to give you a rounded scientific understanding of non-human animals and the challenges of protecting them in a changing world. Animal behaviour is concerned with why animals do what they do, from individual learning and social interaction to mating systems and communication. Animal welfare asks how we can assess and improve the quality of life of animals in human care, farming systems, and the wild.

Conservation science brings ecological and management perspectives to bear on how wild populations and habitats can be sustained in the face of human pressure.

At Wrexham University this three-year full-time programme is designed to equip you with the knowledge and practical skills needed to work across a variety of roles in the animal sector. You will develop a grounding in biology, ecology, and animal psychology, alongside training in research methods, data collection, and scientific communication. You will have opportunities to work with animals directly, developing the observational and handling skills that field and applied roles require.

The programme takes a broad-based approach so that you build competence across all three areas of the subject rather than narrowing too early.

Graduates go on to work in zoos, wildlife trusts, animal sanctuaries, conservation organisations, veterinary practices, and research institutions. Roles in animal welfare assessment, wildlife management, environmental consulting, and conservation fieldwork are all realistic destinations. Some graduates pursue further study at master's or doctoral level in animal behaviour, conservation biology, or veterinary science, while others move into education, science communication, or policy roles focused on animal and environmental issues.