Animal Behaviour and Training

Animal behaviour and training is a discipline that sits at the intersection of zoology, ethology, and applied psychology, concerned with understanding why animals behave as they do and how that understanding can be used to manage, train, and improve the welfare of animals in a wide variety of contexts. From companion animals in domestic settings to working animals, zoo animals, and those managed in agricultural or clinical rehabilitation contexts, the ability to understand and shape animal behaviour has enormous practical importance. The clinical dimension of this particular programme indicates a focus on animals presenting with problematic or atypical behaviours, requiring more specialised knowledge and intervention skills.

At Hartpury University, this three-year full-time programme gives you an in-depth understanding of animal behaviour and training, covering animal management, training methodology, and the physiology underlying behaviour. The programme includes a sandwich placement year and work placement opportunities, giving you direct professional experience in relevant settings. This practical engagement is central to the training: understanding animal behaviour requires direct observation and hands-on experience, and the placements take you into real-world contexts from routine husbandry training through to managing animals with complex or problematic behaviours.

Industry connections and real-world case studies are woven throughout the programme.

You will develop skills in behavioural assessment, training design, observational methods, and the application of learning theory to animal management contexts. The clinical focus develops additional diagnostic and intervention skills appropriate for complex or challenging cases.

Graduates from animal behaviour and training programmes pursue careers in veterinary behaviour support, zoo and wildlife facilities, companion animal training, equine behaviour, animal welfare charities, and research. Many work within veterinary practices or alongside veterinary behaviourists. Postgraduate study in clinical animal behaviour or veterinary science is a natural next step for those seeking specialist clinical roles.