Program Overview

Canine Therapy

Course Overview

The BSc (Hons) Canine Therapy course at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) is a three-year undergraduate program that focuses on canine massage and hydrotherapy. Students gain practical experience in the university's specialist canine centre and work towards a recognized Level 3 Hydrotherapy qualification.

Course Structure

The course is divided into three years, with each year consisting of core modules that cover various aspects of canine therapy, including anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, and behavior management. Students also learn business and professional skills, conduct research, and consider the ethics of working with animals.

Year 1

• Introduction to Professional Skills (30 credits)
• Canine Anatomy and Physiology (15 credits)
• Functional Anatomy (Canine) (15 credits)
• Introduction to Animal Biomechanics (15 credits)
• Nutrition and Feeding (15 credits)
• Canine Behaviour Management (15 credits)
• Introduction to Canine Therapy (15 credits)

Year 2

• Business Skills (15 credits)
• Research Methods (15 credits)
• Canine Health, Disease and Pain Management (15 credits)
• Exercise Physiology (Canine) (15 credits)
• Extrinsic Factors Affecting Canine Performance (15 credits)
• Animal Therapeutic Techniques (15 credits)
• Canine Hydrotherapy* (15 credits)

Year 3

• Capstone Project (30 credits)
• Animals in Motion (15 credits)
• Sports Medicine (15 credits)
• Canine Massage Therapy (30 credits)
• Advanced Principles and Practice of Hydrotherapy* (15 credits)
• Ethics and Welfare (15 credits)

Facilities

The course is based at ARU's Writtle campus, which features a specialist canine centre with a hydrotherapy pool, two underwater treadmills, and clinical consultation rooms. Students also have access to a pet behavior centre and a dog grooming centre.

Accreditation

The course is accredited by the Animal Health Professions Register (AHPR), and graduates are eligible to apply for membership of the Register. The course also includes a vocational award, which enables graduates to work as therapists or as part of a clinical team.

Careers

Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Canine Therapy course can pursue careers in canine therapy, research, or education. They may work in clinics, hospitals, or private practice, or pursue further education and research opportunities.

Entry Requirements

• 96 UCAS Tariff points
• 4 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English, Maths, and Science
• If English is not the first language, a certificated level of proficiency of at least IELTS 6.0 (Academic level) or equivalent English Language qualification

Fees and Funding

• UK students: £9,535 per year (full-time)
• International students: £16,700 per year (full-time)
• Part-time fees are pro-rata according to the number of credits studied

Additional Costs

• Suitable smart clothing for working around dogs
• Overalls and white lab coat
• Laptop/device and study materials
• Wet suit and/or waders for hydrotherapy sessions

Application

UK students can apply through UCAS, while international students can apply directly to ARU. Part-time students can also apply directly to ARU.