BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour (Combined)

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: International students applying for undergraduate programs at the University of Chester are required to have completed their secondary education with a minimum overall percentage of 65% or above.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum score of 6.0 overall, with no individual band score below 5.5.
• TOEFL: A minimum score of 80 on the Internet-based Test (iBT), with no section below 17.
• PTE Academic: A minimum score of 61 overall, with no communicative skills score below 59.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

The University of Chester offers various scholarships and financial support options to international students. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, support students with financial needs, and promote diversity and inclusivity. 

International Excellence Scholarship: The International Excellence Scholarship is available to international undergraduate and postgraduate students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance. The scholarship provides a tuition fee reduction of up to £2,000 for the first year of study. The selection is based on academic achievement and personal statement.

Chevening Scholarships: The University of Chester is a participating institution in the prestigious Chevening Scholarship program. Chevening Scholarships are awarded by the UK government to outstanding individuals with leadership potential from around the world. The scholarship covers tuition fees, living expenses, and other allowances for a one-year master's degree.

Commonwealth Scholarships: The university participates in the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP), offering scholarships to students from Commonwealth countries. These scholarships cover full tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs for selected master's degree programs.

Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarships: The Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarships are open to international students applying for a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate degree at the University of Chester. The scholarships provide a tuition fee reduction of £2,000 for the first year of study. Students are automatically considered for this scholarship based on their application.

Country-Specific Scholarships: The University of Chester offers country-specific scholarships to students from selected countries. These scholarships may vary in terms of eligibility criteria, funding amount, and application process. They are designed to attract talented students from specific regions and support their educational journey at the university.

Alumni Discount: The University of Chester offers an Alumni Discount to international students who have previously completed a degree at the university and wish to pursue further studies. This discount provides a reduction in tuition fees for eligible students.

It's important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary each year.

Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour (Combined) program from the University of Chester are well-prepared for a range of rewarding careers in animal-related fields, including animal management, conservation, research, and education. This multidisciplinary program equips students with a strong foundation in biology, psychology, and ecology, providing them with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience needed to work with animals and contribute to their welfare and conservation.  

1. Animal Behaviourist: Graduates can work as animal behaviourists, studying and analyzing animal behavior patterns, cognitive processes, and social interactions. They conduct research, design behavior modification programs, and provide training and enrichment to improve animal welfare in zoos, wildlife parks, research facilities, and animal rescue centers.

2. Wildlife Conservation Officer: Many graduates pursue careers as wildlife conservation officers or ecologists, working for government agencies, non-profit organizations, and conservation charities. They contribute to wildlife monitoring, habitat restoration, and species conservation initiatives, implementing strategies to protect endangered species and preserve biodiversity.

3. Zookeeper/Curator: Graduates may work as zookeepers or curators in zoological parks, aquariums, or wildlife rehabilitation centers. They care for animals, manage captive breeding programs, and develop enrichment activities to promote natural behaviors and ensure the well-being of animals under human care.

4. Research Scientist: Some graduates pursue careers as research scientists or research assistants in academic institutions, government agencies, or private research organizations. They conduct studies on animal behavior, ecology, and conservation, contributing to scientific knowledge and informing evidence-based conservation strategies.

5. Animal Welfare Specialist: Graduates can specialize in animal welfare, advocating for ethical treatment and care of animals in various settings. They work for animal welfare organizations, veterinary clinics, and governmental agencies, implementing welfare protocols and promoting humane practices.

6. Environmental Consultant: Graduates with expertise in animal behavior and conservation biology may work as environmental consultants, advising on wildlife management, ecological impact assessments, and conservation planning for development projects. They collaborate with stakeholders to minimize environmental impact and promote sustainable practices.

7. Educator and Outreach Coordinator: Some graduates specialize in education and outreach, developing educational programs and public engagement initiatives related to animal behavior, wildlife conservation, and environmental stewardship. They work for museums, nature centers, and educational institutions, inspiring community involvement in conservation efforts.

8. Animal Training and Rehabilitation Specialist: Graduates interested in animal training and rehabilitation can work in animal training centers, rehabilitation facilities, or marine mammal parks. They develop behavior modification programs, rehabilitate injured or orphaned animals, and facilitate animal-assisted therapy programs.

9. Further Studies and Academic Careers: Graduates may pursue further studies at the postgraduate level, specializing in areas such as animal welfare science, wildlife biology, or applied ethology. Advanced degrees can lead to academic or research positions in universities, research institutes, or governmental organizations.