Access to HE Diploma (Animal Science) – 1 year

This course is designed to support adult students with their progression to a FdSc higher education programme, into industry or onto an apprenticeship.  It is designed around vocational animal science, both theoretically and practically, and includes English and Maths for applicants who do not have a grade C/4 at GCSE (Functional Skills Level 2).

The course helps students who may want a career change, or who are looking to further their education about the animal care sector.  It will be delivered at Broomfield Hall, supported by the use of the fantastic rural grounds and animal care centre.

The course entails three days a week attendance, with one day focusing on work experience.

*The course will run with a minimum of six students.

**You will gain funding for the course through EFA funding if you are 18-23 years old and have not completed a previous Level 3 qualification, or through an Adult Learner Loan if you have completed a previous Level 3 or are aged 24+. 

Students will be required to hold:

1. GCSE English at grade 3/D or Level 1 Functional Skills English
2. GCSE Maths at grade 3/D or Level 1 Functional Skills Maths
3. An interest in the animal management, equine management or environmental conservation industries

Applicants will need to have undertaken a minimum of two weeks’ work placement prior to commencing the programme.

All applicants will be invited to an interview to discuss the programme.

Students will learn a range from a range of modules including but not limited to:

• Animal evolution
• Biodiversity
• Health and disease
• Animal nutrition
• Safe working practices
• Study and research skills
• Statistics
• Cells and tissues
• Organs and systems
• Mammalian reproduction
• Accommodation
• Aquatic husbandry
• Work Experience (100 hours to be completed throughout the course)
• GCSE/Functional Skills English and Maths (where applicable)

Alongside these modules, you will have timetabled tutorial sessions and 1-1 support from your personal tutor. You will have access to an academic studies coach to assist you throughout your learning journey, along with access to a range of resources across the campus. 

Students will be taught via face-to-face delivery at Broomfield Hall.  Lessons will incorporate both theory and practical elements to include presentations, hands-on experiences and group and independent work.

Entrance costs to various visitor attractions, such as zoos, to support your studies will be required at the time of each visit.  The anticipated total costs will be approximately £45 for the duration of the course.

You will be required to purchase a Derby College Group polo shirt for practicals, plus a lab coat and steel toe cap boots (circa £75).

 A laptop would be beneficial to your learning and studies.  

Students may be assessed through a range of methods such as written essays and reports, practical handling assessments, laboratory work, posters and presentations.

Students can progress to a foundation degree programme either at Broomfield Hall, Derby College or elsewhere. Access to HE qualifications are widely accepted by multiple universities. Further progression opportunities are into industry or onto an apprenticeship.

For more information, contact Derby College Group on 0800 0280289 or enquiries@derby-college.ac.uk