Free BTEC Level 3 Animal Management Course in Boston – Boston College

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start3 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

About this course

Free BTEC Level 3 Animal Management Course in Boston. Classes run at Boston College, full-time during the day. This two-year course covers the knowledge and practical skills needed for a career in animal care, or to progress to a university-level animal science or related degree. You'll need five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including Science, Maths and English, or a Merit profile in a relevant Level 2 qualification. A week of meaningful animal-related work experience, such as voluntary work at a vet practice, is also expected.

Who this course is for

This course is for those that are interested in a career within the animal care industry or want to progress onto a university level course.

Entry requirements

Five GCSEs at grade 4 or above (Old GCSE grade C or above) including Science, Maths and English. You can also progress onto this course with a Merit profile in a Level 2 qualification. It is also expected that you will have a weeks worth of meaningful work experience such as voluntary work at your local vets.

What you will learn

  • You'll study animal biology, anatomy and physiology
  • You'll learn how to handle and care for a range of animal species
  • You'll explore animal behaviour and how to assess it
  • You'll develop knowledge of animal health, disease and nutrition
  • You'll study the principles of animal breeding and genetics
  • You'll learn about legislation and welfare standards in animal care
  • You'll build practical skills through work-based and hands-on learning activities

How you will learn

Learning takes place in the classroom and through practical sessions. The BTEC format means you are assessed mainly through assignments, projects and portfolios of evidence rather than traditional exams. Some units include practical assessments. You will build a body of work across the two years that demonstrates your knowledge and skills in animal management.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Boston College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Animal care worker: day-to-day care of animals in kennels, catteries or shelters
  • Veterinary receptionist: front-of-house support in a vet practice
  • Zoo keeper assistant: supporting animal care in zoo or wildlife settings
  • Animal technician: caring for animals in research or laboratory environments
  • Pet shop assistant: advising customers and caring for animals in retail
  • Wildlife rehabilitation assistant: supporting injured or orphaned wild animals
  • Dog groomer: grooming and handling dogs in a salon or mobile setting

What you could study next

A Level 3 BTEC National Extended Diploma is recognised for entry to many university courses. You could progress to a BSc in Animal Science, Animal Behaviour, Zoology, or Veterinary Nursing at degree level. If you want to work as a registered veterinary nurse, you would go on to study a British Veterinary Nursing Association-approved degree or Foundation Degree in Veterinary Nursing. Some learners also progress to a Higher National Certificate or Higher National Diploma in Animal Management as a shorter higher-education route.