Animal Management
HND Animal Management - awarded by Pearson
Is this course for me?
Are you passionate about working with animals and ready to turn that into a career?
Whether you're just starting out or already have a solid foundation in animal management, this course can take you where you want to go.
At HNC level, you'll build core knowledge across animal health, welfare, biology, business, and scientific research. It's perfect if you're progressing from a Level 3 qualification or already working in the sector and looking to step up. You'll gain real experience in workplace settings — from kennels and rescue centres to zoos and labs — and develop the skills to handle animals safely, understand their needs, and make evidence-based decisions.
Once you've completed the HNC, the HND takes things further. You'll specialise in advanced topics, explore biological and scientific principles in depth, and build your confidence through independent research and practical investigation. It's the next step if you're aiming for supervisory roles, top-up degrees, or careers in areas like animal science, zoology, or wildlife conservation.
Whether your goal is employment or further study, this qualification gives you the knowledge, hands-on experience, and work-ready skills to make it happen.
In the HNC year, you'll build core knowledge in animal health, welfare, biology, and behaviour — while gaining practical, hands-on experience in real-world settings.
The HND year develops your independent thinking and research skills. You'll explore more advanced topics and complete a self-directed project, preparing you for higher-level roles or top-up degrees.
Together, the two years provide a strong mix of academic and practical learning to help you progress with confidence.
HNC (Year 1)
• Animal Health and Welfare
• Business and Business Environment
• Managing a Successful Project (Pearson-set)
HND (Year 2)
• Biological Principles
• Research Project (Pearson-set)
The modules listed are core (mandatory) modules. Additional optional modules will also be included — these are chosen by course leaders and may vary from year to year.
You'll learn through a mix of classroom study and hands-on practical work — from animal handling and health checks to habitat assessments and research projects.
Alongside technical knowledge, you'll develop essential skills in teamwork, communication, leadership, and problem-solving — helping you stand out to employers or progress to a top-up degree.
We'll assess your skills through practical projects, not just essays. Think webinars, podcasts, business plans, and business pitches — just like the real world.
You'll also complete presentations, reports, case studies, and live business projects, giving you experience that mirrors what you'll face in your future career.
You'll study full-time, three days a week for two academic years — giving you time to balance work, life, and learning.
To apply, you'll need:
• At least 96 UCAS points from an animal related or science subject
• GCSE English and Maths at grade C/4 or above (or equivalent)
We also welcome mature students with relevant work experience, a portfolio of practical work, or employer references.
Once you've completed your HND, you can:
• Progress to a top-up degree in Animal Management, Animal Science, Zoology or related fields
• Move directly into employment in roles such as animal care technician, wildlife assistant, zookeeper, or lab technician
• Work in settings including animal charities, boarding kennels, education, or environmental consultancy
You'll also have a strong foundation for working towards professional recognition or further specialist training.
At our Leigh Campus, you'll benefit from a newly expanded, industry-standard Animal Management Centre designed to simulate real-world settings. This purpose-built facility includes:
• A scenario-based learning environment with spaces dedicated to animal boarding, veterinary care, a pet shop, and an aquatics centre.
• Multi-modal classrooms that integrate practical and theoretical learning, preparing you for diverse roles in the animal care industry.
Our animal management classrooms are home to over 20 different species of reptiles and rodents, providing hands-on experience in caring for and managing a variety of animals.
You'll be taught by a dedicated team of lecturers and technicians with real-world experience in animal care, veterinary nursing, conservation, and zoology. Their expertise ensures that your learning is grounded in current industry practices.
Additionally, the college offers enrichment opportunities such as well as guest talks from professionals in the sector. These experiences are designed to enhance your understanding and prepare you for a successful career in animal management.
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Students aged 16-18 do not pay exam fees.
