FdSc Canine Behaviour, Training and Performance · Wrexham UniversityFoundation degree · 3 years
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Wrexham University · Undergraduate

FdSc Canine Behaviour, Training and Performance Foundation degree at Wrexham University

FdSc Canine Behaviour, Training and Performance at Wrexham University. Wrexham University's Foundation Degree in Canine Behaviour, Training and Performance, launched in 2008, grounds you in the practical and theoretical sides of working with dogs.

FdSc
Award
3
Years
Full-time
Study mode
45%
continuation

About this course

FdSc Canine Behaviour, Training and Performance is a Foundation degree (FdSc) at Wrexham University, based, Flintshire. It runs 3 years, studied full-time.

For the typical curriculum, specialisations, career paths and graduate earnings for Agriculture & Animal Science, see the sections below.

Course evidence score

The arithmetic mean of the official measures available for this course: NSS satisfaction, graduate activity and continuation.

4.5
/ 10
1 of 3 official measures
Continuation
Students who continue past their first year
Fair45

Published threshold met Discover Uni suppresses continuation data below its publication threshold. Cohort 2022-23. Continuation 45% (2022-23; Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)

Curriculum & modules

Real modules published for this course, grouped only where the source gives a year, stage or level.

Year 1 (Level 4) 6 modules
  • Professional and Academic DevelopmentCore
    Module details

    This module aims to equip you with a range of skills and attributes in preparation to work in your chosen sector whilst following professional codes of practice. The module will also enable you to develop a range of skills required for academic studies, which will be used and extended upon throughout your programme of study.

  • Professional Practice 1Core
    Module details

    This module will enable you to apply and integrate professional skills, knowledge and behaviours gained from the programme into a real-life workplace setting. This module will enable you to further develop the Wrexham graduate attributes and develop and reflect upon the key employability skills required for the sector.

  • Canine Behaviour and CognitionCore
    Module details

    This module will enable you to understand canine cognitive abilities, body language and communication. Videos and direct observation of dogs will develop your ability to read and interpret canine body language and behaviour patterns. You will become familiar with the key concepts of learning theory and behaviour. Underpinning knowledge gained from this module can be applied in practice to ensure good welfare for companion and working dogs.

  • Human Canine InteractionCore
    Module details

    This module will introduce you to the many facets of canine-human Interaction and the wide-ranging roles of dogs in society across time and cultures. You will examine different types of interactions and relationships between humans and dogs and examine the costs and benefits to both species.

  • Introduction to Canine Anatomy and PhysiologyCore
    Module details

    This module will develop your knowledge and understanding of canine anatomy and physiology at both a systems and cellular level. You will integrate physiology and pathophysiology to develop an understanding of disease states. Principles of genetics, linking to the breeding process will be covered in this module.

  • Specialist TrainingCore
    Module details

    This module will introduce you to the specialist field of canine scent detection. The module is highly practical giving unique opportunities to apply theory to practice under the supervision of experts in the industry with extensive range of experience. This module further embeds the importance of animal welfare and human safety and how this can be ensured in real world situations.

Year 2 (Level 5) 6 modules
  • Professional Practice 2Core
    Module details

    This module will enable you to build upon the professional skills, knowledge and behaviours gained from the programme and previous professional practice module at level 4. Deeper reflection with be undertaken through the Professional Behavioural Evaluation Assessment. You will focus on your career goals and the skills, attributes and professional behaviour needed to gain employment in your chosen area.

  • Canine Learning and TrainingCore
    Module details

    This module will equip you with the underpinning knowledge of learning theory and its application to practical training. This can be utilised to develop and implement advanced training techniques in the workplace which are effective and ethically sound.

  • Conditioning and Sports PerformanceCore
    Module details

    This module explores canine conditioning techniques and performance analysis. You will gain knowledge of how to prevent injuries in dogs though correct conditioning and critical evaluation of performance. There will also be opportunities to explore rehabilitation techniques following injury and the roles of ancillary professions such as physiotherapy and veterinary nursing.

  • Practical Health and DiseaseCore
    Module details

    This module will extend and develop your knowledge and understanding of canine health and disease from the level 4 anatomy and physiology module. The disease process will be examined and the physiological status which affects the normal parameters. You will examine the different pathogens and how they manifest into disease states. An introduction to immunology will provide you with the understanding on how our dogs physiology can help to fight disease. The role of immunisation and vaccination pr

  • Specialist Training 2Core
    Module details

    This module analyses specific specialist areas of expertise in field of canine scent detection building upon knowledge you will have gained in specialist training 1. The module is highly practical giving you the opportunity to apply theory to practice under the supervision of experts in the industry with a broad range of experience.

  • Training Instruction and Coaching skillsCore
    Module details

    This module will enable you to develop the teaching and coaching skills necessary for effective performance in the workplace. You will build upon communication skills and practical training techniques from previous modules. You will have the opportunity to practice teaching and coaching methods in a safe and supportive environment.

Source: provider course page. Modules can change; required/optional status, credits, descriptions and assessment are shown only when explicitly published.

Course in depth

What this course covers, who it suits and where it leads.

What you'll study

You'll study the science and practice of working with dogs, progressing from animal behaviour fundamentals to applied training and performance methods. A course like this typically moves from foundational knowledge, applied biology, learning theory and canine welfare, through practical husbandry and assessment skills, before specialising in areas such as animal behaviour and welfare, livestock production, or equine science. Year 1 establishes core principles; Year 2 deepens knowledge of nutrition, health and practical technology; Year 3 offers specialist options and culminates in a work-based project or dissertation, often undertaken with an industry partner. Throughout, you'll combine classroom learning with hands-on work with animals.

Who it's for

You suit this course if you're drawn to dogs and want to understand their behaviour and training at depth, not just in passing. You'll thrive if you enjoy hands-on work alongside reading and reflection, and if you're willing to develop both practical competence and analytical thinking. Whether you're aiming straight for a role in canine training, behaviour assessment, or animal welfare, or planning to top up to a degree afterwards, this three-year full-time foundation degree gives you a credible, recognised qualification to build on.

Careers & job market

Across Agriculture and Animal Science courses nationally, 90% of graduates are in work or further study within 15 months. Among those working, 40% are in highly skilled roles or undertaking further study. Starting salaries (national Graduate Outcomes) typically sit between £22,000 and £27,000; after three years, they range from £17,850 to £25,200; after five years, £22,525 to £31,800. These figures reflect the broader graduate population, not promises for canine-specific roles.

University & format

This Foundation degree is studied full-time at Wrexham University, located in Flintshire. The course runs for 3 years and is taught in English. Wrexham University is a recognised UK degree-awarding body, and degrees awarded carry national recognition. The course is.

Applicant information

The next application dates for this course, followed by facts the provider publishes.

Application timelineWhat happens next
  1. 2027 entryCompleted applications can be submitted

    Your application needs a reference before you can send it.

  2. 2026 entryFinal date for 2026 applications

    Applications must reach UCAS by 18:00 UK time.

  3. 2026 entryLast day to add a Clearing choice

    Check that this course still has a vacancy before adding it.

  4. 2027 entryEqual-consideration deadline

    18:00 UK time for most undergraduate courses.

Show 5 later dates
  1. 2027 entryUCAS Extra opens

    Applicants who used all five choices and hold no offer may be able to add another choice.

  2. 2027 entryLast day applications go directly to providers

    Applications received after 18:00 UK time are entered into Clearing.

  3. 2027 entryClearing opens

    Eligible applicants can see vacancies and release themselves into Clearing.

  4. 2027 entryFinal date for 2027 applications

    Applications must reach UCAS by 18:00 UK time.

  5. 2027 entryLast day to add a Clearing choice

    Check that this course still has a vacancy before adding it.

Published entry48-72 UCAS points typical offer

Provider-published requirement; check the linked course page before applying.

Open daysBook An Open Day

See and book current events. Dates can fill or change.

Entry & how to get in

Typical offer (from the provider)The university’s course page lists a typical A-level offer of 48-72 UCAS points. Always check the provider for the current offer and subject requirements.
Most entrants held A-levels or equivalent60% of accepted students came in with A-levels or equivalent (entrants over recent years).
Typical UCAS tariff: 48 - 63 pointsThe most common UCAS tariff band among accepted students. This is what entrants had, not a stated requirement.
Entry requirements are set by the universityGrades, subjects and contextual offers vary. Check Wrexham University's official course page for the current offer.

Who gets in

What recently admitted students actually held, official admissions data, not a stated requirement.

UCAS tariff of entrants

Grades are the A-level equivalent of each points band. Tap a band to check your own chances below.

Qualifications held on entry

QualificationShare
A-levels or equivalent60%
another higher-education qualification20%
No / unknown prior qualifications10%
Other10%

Entry & your chances

An honest read from the official entry data, plus your personal match.

Accessible entry

Accepted students came in with a broad spread of qualifications and UCAS points. If you're worried about grades, this course has historically taken a wide range, and contextual offers may apply.

Will you get in? Plot your grades

Pick your predicted A-levels and watch your UCAS points land on the real spread of students admitted to this course.

Each bar is the share of admitted students in that UCAS-points band (lower → higher). Grades show the A-level equivalent.

Add your grades to see where you land

Your points will drop onto the distribution above, with an honest above / within / below read.

Based on the official admitted-student tariff distribution. Many universities make contextual (reduced-grade) offers, so a result below the range doesn’t rule you out.

How to apply

Undergraduate applications go through UCAS. Here’s what matters for this course, the right deadline, the grades to aim for, and the steps in order.

Apply by13 January 2027, 18:00 UK timefor this course
Typical gradesDEEA-level equivalent admitted students held
UCAS codeCBTPquote this on your application
  1. 1
    Register on UCAS Hub

    Create your UCAS application and add this course (code CBTP). One application covers up to five choices.

  2. 2
    Write your personal statement

    A single statement covers all your choices, so keep it broad enough for similar courses while showing genuine interest in this subject.

  3. 3
    Submit by 13 January 2027, 18:00 UK time

    UCAS equal-consideration deadline for most undergraduate courses. Source: UCAS 2027 dates.

  4. 4
    Reply to your offers

    When decisions are in, pick a firm (first) choice and an insurance (back-up) choice with slightly lower grades.

  5. 5
    Results day & confirmation

    On results day (mid-August) your place is confirmed if you meet the offer. Just missed? Talk to the university, or find a place through Clearing.

💡 Many universities make a contextual (reduced-grade) offer, for example based on your school’s results, time in care, or where you live. Ask Wrexham University whether you’re eligible before you apply; it can lower the grades you need.

Fees & funding

What this course costs and how UK student finance covers it.

Tuition per year

Internationalset by the university

Set under Wales's student-finance system; the provider's page is authoritative.

Check fees at Wrexham University →

If you normally live in Wales

Living at homeup to £10,685 / yr
Away from home, outside Londonup to £12,590 / yr
Away from home, in Londonup to £15,720 / yr

2026/27 total maintenance support from Student Finance Wales. How much of it is grant and how much is loan depends on household income; the total does not. If you normally live elsewhere, use your home funding body.

Check your entitlement with Student Finance Wales →

Paying for it

  • Tuition Fee Loan: paid directly to the university by Student Finance Wales.
  • Maintenance support: a mix of grant and loan from Student Finance Wales, weighted to household income.
  • Repayment: only above the income threshold, and written off at the end of the plan term.
  • Earn alongside: most students work part-time in term, part-time roles on the StudySmarter job board.

Wales runs its own system through Student Finance Wales; check studentfinancewales.co.uk for current rates.

Funding matched to this course

Scholarships & bursaries you could qualify for

All Wrexham University funding →

Named awards published by the university. Compare the eligibility and application route before budgeting for one.

Amounts, exclusions and deadlines can change. An award is not guaranteed unless the university confirms it.

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StudyKit brings course choice, applications and funding together in one place, with a personal AI assistant. Find what really fits you and start your UCAS application step by step.

Career quizApplication walkthroughSalary & CV check

Careers & earnings

What Agriculture & Animal Science graduates actually earn, from real outcome data, 15 months, 3 years and 5 years after graduating.

Graduate earnings: this course

WhenMedianTypical rangeGraduates
3 years after£16,000£11,500 – £20,00035
5 years after£19,500£13,000 – £24,50035

Nominal earnings for graduates of this course/subject at this provider. Published threshold met. Sample size is not included in this snapshot.

Graduate outcomes, 15 months on: this course

45%
continue past their first year
  1. 1Graduate roleFirst role after the degree · 0–2 yrs
  2. 2Specialist / PractitionerWorking in agriculture & animal science · 2–5 yrs
  3. 3Senior / LeadLeading work and people · 5–10 yrs
  4. 4Head of / ExpertSenior leadership or deep expertise · 10+ yrs

How pay grows: this course vs Agriculture & Animal Science nationally

Starting (15 months) HESA GO
£22,000 – £27,000
After 3 years LEO
£16,000
£17,850 – £25,200
After 5 years LEO
£19,500
£22,525 – £31,800
national rangethis course’s medianaxis £14,500 – £33,000

National figures for Agriculture & Animal Science graduates, HESA Graduate Outcomes (15 months) and the Longitudinal Education Outcomes (LEO) dataset (3 & 5 years). These are national, not university-specific; actual pay varies by employer, region, role and experience. Different cohorts, so the bars are not one group over time.

Work out your pay

Headline figures hide a lot. Calculate realistic take-home pay for this field by role, region and experience, then check your CV before you apply.

What happened to 100 students?

Choose an outcome to translate the published percentage into a simple 100-person view. Each dot represents one percentage point, not an individual tracked student.

45 of 100

continued or completed

continued into the next year or completed their qualification

Source: Discover Uni, using Graduate Outcomes and continuation data. Cohorts: 2022-23. Published threshold met. Sample size is not included in this snapshot. Each tab is a separate published measure; categories can overlap and should not be added together.

Value compared with similar courses

How this course’s 5-year median earnings compare with Agriculture & Animal Science courses at the same study level.

This course £19,500Peer median £26,000Middle 50% £23,500–£30,000
1st percentile

Compared with 285 courses with compatible official earnings data. This is a course-value comparison, not a quality ranking.

Job market & outlook

How Agriculture & Animal Science graduates fare in the labour market, and how AI is reshaping the work.

90%
in work or further study 15 months after graduating, across Agriculture & Animal Science courses nationally.
Graduate Outcomes
40%
of working graduates are in highly skilled work or further study.
highly skilled
85%
of students continue past their first year (still enrolled or completed).
continuation

How AI is changing the work

AI doesn't replace the profession, it shifts it: routine tasks get automated, while judgement, working with people and using AI well become more valuable.

What AI takes off your plate

  • Routine information gathering
  • First-draft writing and summaries
  • Standard analysis and admin
  • Repetitive processing tasks

More human than ever

  • Judgement and original thinking
  • Working with and leading people
  • Owning and sense-checking AI output
  • Ethics and accountability

The strongest graduates pair subject depth with the ability to use AI tools critically.

Roles & employers

Where Agriculture & Animal Science graduates typically go, indicative destinations from graduate career data. Each role links to live openings on the StudySmarter job board.

Where they work

  • Agribusiness & food producers
  • DEFRA & agencies
  • Estates & farms
  • Animal & wildlife charities

Is this course right for you?

The essentials UK applicants ask about: finance, outcomes, entry and quality.

💷

Student finance

Fees for this course are set under Wales's own student-finance system, not the England cap; check the provider's course page for the exact figure. If you normally live in Wales, Student Finance Wales can pay an eligible Tuition Fee Loan directly to the university, and maintenance support is a mix of grant and loan weighted to household income. You repay only above the income threshold.

🎯

Your entry chances

Use the UCAS points calculator above to see how your predicted grades compare with admitted students, and whether a contextual offer could apply.

Official-data snapshot

Averaging the official measures published for it, this course scores 4.5 out of 10: continued 45%.

Who studies here and in this subject?

Provider- and UK subject-level context.

Wrexham University

All students8,560
International22.9%
Aged 25+65.3%

Agriculture, food and related studies across the UK

Students17,960
Aged 25+33.3%

HESA student record 2024/25. Counts are rounded.

Local crime-data context

A neutral snapshot around the published teaching location.

Around Wrexham University, Flintshire

16 street-level reports returned within roughly one mile across 2026-04 to 2026-06.

Violent Crime 8Criminal Damage Arson 3Public Order 2Anti Social Behaviour 1Burglary 1

Police.uk street-level API. Approximate locations, not confined to campus. England, Wales and Northern Ireland; not Scotland.

Is Agriculture & Animal Science right for you?

Tick what applies to you and see how good a fit it is.

International students

What applying to Wrexham University from outside the UK involves: fees, English, visa, funding and living costs.

Tuition fees

International tuition is set per course by Wrexham University; international fees are typically £12,000–£30,000/year for classroom subjects and higher for lab/clinical ones. You’re not eligible for UK Tuition Fee or Maintenance Loans, so plan for fees plus living costs upfront.

English language

Most UK undergraduate courses ask for around IELTS 6.0–6.5 (no band below 5.5–6.0), or an accepted equivalent. If you’re just short, most universities run a pre-sessional English course that counts towards the requirement.

Student visa

You’ll usually need a Student visa (Student Route). After you accept an offer the university issues a CAS; you then show funds for fees plus about £1,023–£1,334/month living costs and pay the Immigration Health Surcharge for NHS access.

Scholarships & funding

Many universities offer international/global scholarships (often £2,000–£6,000/yr), check Wrexham University’s funding pages.

Living costs

Budget roughly £1,100–£1,400/month outside London and £1,400–£1,800/month in London for rent, food and travel; the figure also matters for your visa.

Working while you study

A Student visa usually allows up to 20 hours/week in term time and full-time in holidays, useful alongside study, though not something to rely on for fees.

Visa rules and fees change. Always confirm the current requirements with Wrexham University and gov.uk before you apply.

Common questions

Entry is historically accessible, accepted students came in with a broad spread of qualifications. The most common tariff band among recent entrants was 48 - 63 UCAS points. Use the calculator on this page to see where your predicted grades would put you; many universities also make lower contextual offers.
Set by Wrexham University. Most accepted students held A-levels or equivalent. Check the university's course page for the exact offer.
See the career and earnings data for Agriculture & Animal Science below (national Graduate Outcomes / LEO figures).
Fees for this course are set under Wales's own student-finance system, not the England cap; check the provider's course page for the exact figure. If you normally live in Wales, Student Finance Wales can pay an eligible Tuition Fee Loan directly to the university, and maintenance support is a mix of grant and loan weighted to household income. You repay only above the income threshold. See Fees & funding on this page to work out your numbers.
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