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01995 642222

BSc Animals and Horticulture asTherapy (Top Up)

About the course

The course is delivered at University Centre Myerscough and awarded by the University of Central Lancashire. The course is designed for students who wish to develop their knowledge when working with animals, plant materials and people within a therapy setting. The focus on enterprise and research encourages independent learning, allowing the investigation of innovative approaches to animal and horticultural therapy.

An integral and exciting part of this course is the opportunity for students to conduct their own piece of original research in an area that interests them. This not only allows a real area of expertise to be developed but gives Myerscough students further recognition as they progress to employment.

Applicants wishing to top-up from a Foundation Degree or HND into the final year of the BSc (Honours) course will need to demonstrate skills in research methods and plant or animal science at Level 5 to enable them to progress onto the programme. Those applicants whose previous programme of study has not covered research skills at the appropriate level may be asked to complete a bridging module, Research Methods. Those applicants whose previous programme of study has not covered therapeutic strategies within animal and horticulture modules at the appropriate level may be asked to complete bridging modules in these areas, these bridging modules may be taken prior to entry onto the course.

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Course modules

Year 1

Research Project (double module)

This double module will provide an opportunity to carry out a piece of independent research into a topic that interests you. You will start by clearly defining a problem to be solved, and then design and undertake an original investigation, developing your skills in project management. The reporting of the study will develop your skills in critical analysis and in communicating in a coherent and critical style.

Planning Therapeutic Interventions

Identifying issues and applying for funding are significant elements of the role for those managing programmes within therapeutic settings. This module aims to give learners the opportunity to identify the strengths and weaknesses in a setting, redesign the setting and source funding for the redevelopment. Learners will then devise programmes for a group utilising the teaching and therapeutic techniques they have been taught throughout the course.

Advances in Anthrozoology

This module aims to examine current advancements in anthrozoology research and the links in the development of practical management strategies within healthcare and educational settings. The module also aims to further develop analytical skills and the ability to critique current anthrozoological research methods, its development and future and how it may be applied to sector settings. The successful communication of research to a wider audience and the acquisition of skills necessary to carry out investigations in order to contribute to future discoveries is also part of this aim.

Horticultural Enterprise Management

You will be asked to identify horticultural business opportunities, develop a business plan for a horticultural enterprise which may include production systems, logistics, stock control or the management of volunteers, visitor attractions/facilities. You will include associated technologies to explain how your business plans fit into a business operation.

Applied Case Studies

This module aims to give learners insight into a range of different therapeutic settings. They will analyse and appraise the settings and discuss the issues that arise in each one through a series of case studies.

Entry requirements & additional information

Entry requirements

Foundation Degree in Animals and Horticulture as Therapy, Foundation Degree / HND in a related subject of 2 years (one at Level 4 and the other at Level 5) of Honours Degree work in a related discipline achieved at 'pass' standard or above. Applicants with alternative equivalent qualifications will also be considered positively. Applicants must also produce evidence of successfully completing a research based module at level 5.

Applicants for whom English is a second language must be able to demonstrate proof of International English Language Testing System (IELTS) at level 6.0 (with no component score lower than 5.5) or equivalent.

All offers may be subject to interview.

Learning and assessment

Learning activities on the course are diverse, including lectures, seminars, tutorials, practical sessions and workshops.

Students are expected to undertake extensive independent study and research to support lectures, seminars and assessments. Group work and group presentations form an important part of the course. Students will have access to specialist IT hardware and software, an on-line learning environment and reference facility.

This course is designed to ensure a wide variety of assessment types are undertaken, many of which directly reflect industry-related documentation and practices. These assessment methods will include technical reports, portfolios, exams, individual presentations, laboratory/practical reports, research posters and extended project work.

Many modules may include guest speakers of standing within the industry. Off-site day visits may be arranged to facilities such as animal collections and centres, horticultural facilities, research centres, schools and support centres and trade fairs.

There is no formal industry placement on this course but there may be opportunities at the end of the course, for students to undertake work experience or internships with employers throughout the UK and overseas.

Progression

On successful completion of the course, students may apply for postgraduate study programmes such as MSc, M Phil, PhD or PGCE.

Careers

Following the completion of the degree programme, you will be able to apply for a supervisory/co-ordinating role in the organisations below. You may also be able to work as a consultant or self-employed practitioner.

  • hospitals and rehabilitation centres
  • day, adult and social education centres
  • specialist colleges for those who are physically disabled or hard of hearing
  • residential homes and centres run by social services
  • health authorities
  • charities and voluntary organisations
  • prisons
  • schools and specialist nurseries and colleges
  • parks
  • demonstration or community gardens and city farms

Professional accreditations

All students are encouraged to pursue membership of the Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour (ASAB) and British Society of Animal Science (BSAS) as well as pursuing scholarships and travel awards with other professional animal organisations. The College also works with The Institute of Horticulture (IOH), International Plant Propagators Society (IPPS), British Pot Plant and Ornamental Association (BPOA).

Special requirements

Additional costs for items that are essential for the course include:

Waterproof clothing for field and farm work and outdoor visits. A black warehouse coat is essential for working on the Animal Centre and can be purchased from the on-line Myerscough Shop. Dark coloured combat trousers are also recommended.

Extra Costs:

Additional costs for items that are essential for the course:

  • Black Warehouse Coat - £15
  • Waterproofs and Steel-Toe-capped Boots - £80

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University Centre Myerscough, St Michael's Road, Bilsborrow, Preston, PR3 0RY

For all enquiries please see our contact page or call 01995 642222.

UK Provider Registration Number: 10004478