Program Overview

Introduction to the Bachelor of Applied Science

The Bachelor of Applied Science (Animal Behaviour and Welfare, and Biodiversity Management) is a unique double-major program that combines the study of animal behaviour and welfare with biodiversity management. This program is designed to provide students with a wide range of course options in both fields, preparing them for a successful career in emerging animal management and welfare careers.

Programme Overview

The Bachelor of Applied Science program addresses the demand for ethical professionals in industries and organisations associated with the behaviour and care of animals. Students will develop an understanding of animal behaviour modification, health and welfare, handling and husbandry, conservation, and human/animal interactions. The program also explores how ecosystems function and support biological diversity, and how biodiversity managers respond to increasing concern over the impact of human activities on the world.

Animal Behaviour and Welfare

Animal behaviour and welfare is a rapidly growing field of study and work. This program will prepare students with the applied knowledge and skills needed to be successful in a wide range of emerging animal management and welfare careers.

Biodiversity Management

In the biodiversity management component of the program, students will explore how ecosystems function and support biological diversity. They will also learn about the social, cultural, and policy frameworks that influence management decisions, and develop their knowledge and skills related to plant identification.

Programme Highlights

• A holistic approach that combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience in simulated and real-world situations
  • Visits to relevant environmental and/or animal-related organisations and voluntary groups
  • Opportunity to undertake part of the studies at one of their sites
• An opportunity to complete a research project in an area of interest to develop the skills needed for a career in the chosen field
• A teaching team of highly qualified and experienced animal behaviour experts, animal trainers, scientists, veterinarians, botanists, ornithologists, and ecologists
• Development of knowledge and confidence in plant identification, an essential skill in the conservation industry

Admission Requirements

Domestic Students

• Academic requirements:
  • Successful completion of the New Zealand Certificate in Animal Care Companion Animals
  • A minimum of 42 credits at NCEA Level 3 or higher on the National Qualifications Framework, with:
    • 14 credits at Level 3 or higher in each of two subjects (Biology, Chemistry, Maths and Statistics)
    • A further 14 credits at Level 3 or higher taken from no more than two additional domains on the National Qualifications Framework
    • A minimum of 14 credits at Level 1 or higher in Mathematics or Pangarau on the National Qualifications Framework
    • 8 credits at Level 2 or higher in English or Te Reo Mori (a minimum of 4 credits must be in Reading and a minimum of 4 credits must be in Writing)
• University Entrance Literacy: 8 credits at Level 2 or above in English or Mori (4 in Reading, 4 in Writing)
• Evidence of English language proficiency as outlined in the NZQA Rules

International Students

• Academic requirements:
  • Be at least 16 years of age when beginning studies
  • Meet the country-specific admission requirement
  • English entry requirements:
    • Evidence of an IELTS (Academic) band score of at least 6 with no band score lower than 5.5
    • University Entrance Literacy: 8 credits at Level 2 or above in English or Mori (4 in Reading, 4 in Writing)
    • Evidence of English language proficiency as outlined in the NZQA Rules

Tuition Fees

• Domestic/NZ students: $8,500 (approximate fees only, includes GST but excludes the Compulsory Student Services Fee levy)
• International students: $26,415 (NZD) (approximate fees for 120 credits)

Career Options

• Animal behaviour and/or welfare consultant
• Animal facility manager
• Animal handler
• Animal welfare scientific officer
• Biodiversity analyst or advisor
• Biosecurity analyst or advisor
• Conservation Manager for DoC or Iwi
• Ecologist
• Geographic information systems (GIS) analyst
• Park ranger (Council or DoC)

Research Areas

The program provides opportunities for research in various areas, including:

• Animal behaviour modification
• Health and welfare
• Handling and husbandry
• Conservation
• Human/animal interactions
• Ecosystems and biological diversity
• Plant identification

Facilities

• The Herbarium: a collection of 11,500 scientifically preserved plants, fungi, lichens, and seaweeds, where students learn about plant specimen collection and preparation techniques.
• The GIS Laboratory: equipped with industry-standard ArcGIS and associated software, where students can run realistic 3D modelling, spatial analysis, image rendering, and other computing-intensive tasks.
• Applied Molecular Solutions Laboratory: fully equipped for DNA extraction and analysis, where students gain hands-on experience in molecular techniques.