Animal Science with Foundation Year

4th in the UK for the quality of teaching in the subject area of Animal Science.
(The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025)

Get ready for degree-level study with our degree with a foundation year. In Year 0, you’ll be part of a supportive Natural and Applied Sciences Foundation Year, gaining essential skills, knowledge and research experience, as well as the confidence to complete a full honours degree as part of this four-year course.

You’ll be able to begin this qualification without meeting the standard Level 3 entry requirements, learning in a supportive community and gaining the essential skills required to succeed in degree-level education.

From there you'll turn your passion for animals into a career with our BSc (Hons) Animal Science degree. Designed to prepare you for graduate employment in a range of sectors that work with animals, this Animal Science degree will blend theory and practice through hands-on, interdisciplinary learning.

From genetics and behaviour to welfare and disease, you’ll explore how science can improve the lives of both domestic and wild animals.

With access to state-of-the-art labs and industry connections through our Life Sciences Industry Liaison Lab at the nearby Discovery Park, you’ll gain the practical and professional skills that animal care, research, and conservation employers are looking for.

What you’ll learn across your four-year course


• Investigate animal behaviour, reproduction, and physiology in lab and field environments.



• Explore genetics, diseases, and biochemistry to understand animal health and welfare.



• Conduct field studies and research, including a residential trip to observe animals in natural habitats.



• Apply scientific techniques to real-world problems in animal care, conservation, and veterinary settings.



• Collaborate with industry experts to develop your skills and career ambitions.



• Gain confidence in networking at our dedicated life sciences careers fair, meet employers and get advice on using the skills you’ve developed to progress into your chosen career.



Whether you want to work in zoos, wildlife conservation, veterinary care, or research, this Animal Science degree will give you the skills and experience to thrive. Take the next step toward a future where you make a real difference in the lives of animals.

This course offers the opportunity to study abroad for a year at one of our partner institutions in North America, helping selected students broaden their experience and stand out to employers in an increasingly global world.

Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology
This course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology and meets in part the academic and experience requirements for Membership and Chartered Biologist (CBiol) status, giving you confidence that you’ll be joining a degree designed to support your development as a science student and prepare you for your future career.

Specialist facilities

You will learn in our flagship STEM Verena Holmes building with impressive, modern science labs and a team of highly qualified lab technicians to support your work, alongside being out in the field at local wildlife parks and conversation trusts in Kent.

Career prospects
Previous graduates from Animal Science courses at Canterbury Christ Church University have gone on to work in and progress into leadership positions including in:
• Animal welfare and husbandry in zoos and wildlife parks



• Animal charities and non-governmental organisations



• Research institutes and organisations studying animals



• Environmental consultancy and conservation



• Research and sustainable food production



You could also go on to complete MScs or PhDs or pursue postgraduate courses in veterinary medicine or teacher training.

University isn't just an education, it's the start of your career. At Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU), you'll get to explore a number of exciting career paths, whatever you study.

CCCU is ranked top 5 UK university for employability (Uni Compare Rankings 2026), highlighting its excellent student careers and employability support. The university is home to career-relevant courses and industry-standard facilities. For example, film students can showcase their creativity in the fully equipped film/TV studio, forensics students can test their observational abilities in mock crime scenes, and nursing students can practice their skills in simulated hospital wards.

With a campus in a World Heritage Site, Canterbury is also less than an hour on the train from London and is buzzing with student life. You've got beautiful coast and countryside right on your doorstep, and plenty of opportunities to make friends. With CCCU's range of clubs and societies, including Tennis, Musical Theatre and Dodgeball, you're bound to meet your friends for life.

Click register interest now to secure your place at CCCU this September.