Program Overview

Introduction to the Program

The FdSc Dog Training and Performance program is a unique and exciting opportunity for students to gain the latest scientific knowledge and practical skills to succeed in the field. The program is designed to empower students with the support package to become experts in dog behavior, training, and performance.

Course Highlights

• Working in partnership with K9 Conservation Consultancy
• Unique modules taught by leading industry experts
• Extensive grounds, including paddocks and woodland, ideal for tracking and conservation
• State-of-the-art dog training facilities

Why Choose This Course?

The Dog Training and Performance degree offers a chance for students to gain the knowledge and skills required to work with dogs in a variety of settings. Students will learn how to create powerful partnerships between dogs and people, understand the secrets of successful training and excellent performance, and develop specialized skills with industry experts.

Course Structure

The program is divided into two years, with each year consisting of several modules.

Year 1 (Level 4)

Modules

• Professional and Academic Development (Core): This module provides students with the skills and attributes required to work in their chosen sector while following professional codes of practice. It also enables students to develop a range of skills necessary for academic study.
• Professional Practice 1 (Core): This module allows students to apply and integrate the skills, knowledge, and behaviors gained from the program to a real-work setting. Students will develop the attributes of Wrexham graduates further and develop key employability skills required for the sector.
• Canine Behavior and Cognition (Core): This module enables students to understand canine cognitive abilities, body language, and communication. Direct observations of dogs and videos will develop students' ability to read canine body language and behavior patterns.
• Human-Canine Interaction (Core): This module introduces students to the various aspects of human-canine interaction and the roles of dogs in society across time and cultures. Students will explore different types of interactions and relationships between people and dogs and examine the costs and benefits to both species.
• Introduction to Canine Anatomy and Physiology (Core): This module develops students' knowledge and understanding of canine anatomy and physiology at a systems and cellular level. Students will integrate physiology and pathophysiology to develop an understanding of disease states.
• Specialist Training (Core): This module introduces students to the specialist field of canine scent detection. The module is highly practical, providing unique opportunities to apply theory to practice under the supervision of industry experts with a wide range of experience.

Year 2 (Level 5)

Modules

• Professional Practice 2 (Core): This module builds on the skills, knowledge, and behaviors gained from the program and the previous professional practice module at level 4. A deeper reflection is undertaken through the Professional Behavior Assessment.
• Canine Learning and Training (Core): This module provides students with the foundational knowledge of learning theory and its application to practical training. This can be used to develop and implement effective and ethical training techniques in the workplace.
• Canine Sports Conditioning and Performance (Core): This module explores canine conditioning techniques and performance analysis. Students will learn how to prevent injuries in dogs and critically evaluate performance.
• Canine Health and Disease (Core): This module extends students' knowledge and understanding of canine health and diseases from the level 4 anatomy and physiology module. The disease process will be explored, and the physiological status that affects normal parameters will be examined.
• Specialist Training 2 (Core): This module analyzes specific areas of canine specialization based on the knowledge gained in specialist training 1. The module is highly practical, providing opportunities to apply theory to practice under the supervision of industry experts.
• Instructional Techniques and Training Skills (Core): This module enables students to develop the teaching and training skills necessary for effective performance in the workplace. Students will build on communication skills and practical training techniques from previous modules.

Admission Requirements

The program requires 48-72 UCAS points, and experience with dogs will also be considered.

Teaching and Assessment

The program includes:

• Practical sessions in the specialist dog training facility, veterinary clinic, and rural grounds
• Lectures
• Workshops
• Guest speakers
• A range of online activities using the virtual learning environment
• Industrial placements
• Educational visits
• A range of assessments from practical to reports

Career Prospects

Graduates can pursue careers as:

• Dog trainers
• Kennel managers
• Rescue workers
• Canine performance specialists
• Welfare consultants
• Further study

Fees and Funding

Students do not have to pay their tuition fees upfront. The fees students pay and the support available will depend on several factors. More information can be found on the university's fees and funding pages.

Accommodation

Wrexham University offers en-suite rooms on campus in the Wrexham Student Village. The private, fully-furnished rooms are located conveniently, providing easy access to campus facilities, study areas, and social spaces.

International Students

For information on the university's entry requirements for EU/international students, please visit the international section.

Upcoming Open Days

Join us for an upcoming open day to meet lecturers, learn more about our courses, and discover our facilities. Book your place now.

Meet the Staff

The program is taught by experienced staff, including:

• Angela Winstanley
• Dr. Tamsin Young
• Denise Yorke

Related Courses

• FdSc Veterinary Nursing

Further Information

For more information about open days, student questions, and course details, please visit the university's website.