Level 3
Access to HE: Veterinary Science and Zoology
This course is designed for people aged over 18 years and is perfect for anyone looking to start a career in the veterinary, zoology, marine biology, conservation, ecology, land based, life sciences or other animal related professions, or considering changing careers to work in these fields.
A career in any animal-based profession empowers you to help people and/or animals, working in a variety of positions and a wide choice of specialties.
You will study in college for 12 hours a week and complete the rest of your studies independently. If you are prepared to study hard, this is a great flexible course to fit around your lifestyle and working commitments - voluntary or paid work within related fields will strengthen your university application and is recommended. You will have one day per week in the Knightstone Campus and the second at our Puxton Park Animal Management Centre, where you will have class lessons and practical experience with a wide range of animals, from small domestics to exotics and large farm animals.
We have a highly skilled and experienced teaching team, and this is one of the reasons we see success and progression to university rates significantly above the national average.
The course is well-established and widely accepted by universities, providing you with UCAS tariff points that are equivalent to three A Levels.
Subjects/Topics Covered
The Access to HE Diploma in Veterinary Sciences and Zoology is designed to prepare students for entry into a range of undergraduate programs in most animal and land-based fields. The subjects covered in this course typically include:
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Biology: students will learn about the structure and function of different animals, including the cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, and nervous systems.
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Chemistry: students will learn about the chemical processes that occur in living organisms, including metabolism and the role of enzymes.
- Animal Management: students will learn and practice industry standard husbandry and health needs of animals.
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Research and Referencing: students will learn about research methods used in animal related fields, including qualitative and quantitative research.
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Study Skills: This module covers communication skills that are essential for success in the social sciences, including verbal and written communication, presentation skills, and teamwork.
Assessment Method
The Access to HE Diploma is designed to reflect the rigor and demands of undergraduate study. It includes a range of assessment methods such as essays, reports, exams, presentations, and portfolios. The assessments will be spread throughout the year, and you will receive regular feedback to help you progress and develop your skills.
Study Time
You will study in Knightstone college for 12 hours a week and complete the rest of your studies independently. If you are prepared to study hard, this is a great flexible course to fit around your lifestyle and working commitments - voluntary or paid work within related fields will strengthen your university application and is recommended. Please note that Access courses require at least one day per week of independent study and applicants must be able to commit to that.
Progression Opportunities
This course will help you progress onto a variety of degree courses within science pathways, including University Centre Weston’s:
- Animal Conservation, Welfare and Behaviour BSc (Hons)
Plus a range of degrees at universities across the country, including:
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Veterinary Science
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Veterinary Nursing
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Zoology
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Marine Biology
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Animal Welfare
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Animal Behaviour
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Conservation
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Ecology
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Animal Management
Entry Requirements
GSCE English Grade 4/C is mandatory. If you are wishing to progress to veterinary surgery Maths Grade 4/C is also required. For other animal related progressions, it may be possible to study GCSE maths alongside, as this will be needed for most universities, but this is dependent on the applicant’s circumstances and will be discussed at interview. We will consider equivalent qualifications, but the applicant must check that their equivalents will be accepted for entry to their chosen university.
Please note that Access courses require at least one day per week of independent study and applicants must be able to commit to that.
Additional Support
Our dedicated team of experts is on hand to provide you with tailored advice and support to help you make the right decisions about your future career and course choices. Whether you need help developing your employability skills, exploring your options, or deciding which course to take, we're here to help you achieve your goals.
Plus, as a Microsoft College, all of our students and apprentices get FREE access to LinkedIn Learning. This is an amazing online platform that offers expert-led courses to help you develop your business, technology-related, and creative skills. At Weston College, we're dedicated to helping you achieve success in your career, whatever your goals may be. So why not take that first step today and join our adult community of learners? We can't wait to help you unlock your full potential!
Financing Your Course
At Weston College, we believe that learning should be accessible to everyone. That's why we offer a range of adult courses that could be free or significantly discounted. Apply online today and our friendly team will be in touch to see how we can ensure you can enrol and get the best price for your course. Don't let finances hold you back from pursuing your passion and advancing your career. Apply now and let us help you achieve your goals.