Animal Behaviour

Animal Behaviour is the scientific study of how and why animals act as they do, drawing on biology, ecology, evolutionary theory, neuroscience and psychology to understand the mechanisms and adaptive significance of behaviour across the animal kingdom. It is a discipline with deep theoretical roots and important practical applications: understanding animal behaviour is essential for improving animal welfare in captivity and agriculture, for designing effective conservation programmes, for managing human-wildlife conflict and for deepening our fundamental knowledge of the living world. As an empirical science, it trains you in careful observation, experimental design, data analysis and the communication of findings.

At Aberystwyth University, this four-year full-time programme includes a year in industry that provides sustained professional experience in an applied setting, whether in conservation, zoo and wildlife management, agricultural science, veterinary support or research. The degree builds a solid foundation of transferable scientific skills, and is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, providing recognition of the quality and rigour of the scientific training you receive. You will develop expertise in field and laboratory methods for studying animal behaviour, alongside the evolutionary, ecological and neurobiological frameworks needed to interpret your observations.

Animal Behaviour graduates go on to careers in conservation, wildlife management, animal welfare, zoo and aquarium management, veterinary support, environmental consultancy, ecological research and science education. The scientific skills the degree develops, including data analysis, experimental design and scientific writing, are also valued in the pharmaceutical and agricultural industries, and in environmental impact assessment. Many graduates go on to postgraduate study or research in animal behaviour, ecology, conservation biology or veterinary science.