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Level 3 Access to HE Diploma in Animal Science Course in Ilkeston

Cost£5,197.00
Duration33 weeks
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyAim Awards awarding body
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About this course

Level 3 Access to HE Diploma (Animal Science) Course in Ilkeston. Classes run at Derby College Broomfield Hall Campus, full-time over 33 weeks. You study animal science both in the classroom and hands-on, using the campus's rural grounds and animal care centre. One day each week is dedicated to work experience. If you don't already hold GCSE English or Maths at grade C/4, the course includes Functional Skills Level 2 in both subjects. The qualification is awarded by AIM Qualifications and recognised by UK universities as preparation for degree-level study.

Who this course is for

This course is designed to support adult students with their progression to a FdSc higher education programme, into industry or onto an apprenticeship.  It is designed around vocational animal science, both theoretically and practically, and includes English and Maths for applicants who do not have a grade C/4 at GCSE (Functional Skills Level 2).The course helps students who may want a career change, or who are looking to further their education about the animal care sector.  It will be delivered at Broomfield Hall, supported by the use of the fantastic rural grounds and animal care centre.The course entails three days a week attendance, with one day focusing on work experience.*The course will run with a minimum of six students.**You will gain funding for the course through EFA funding if you are 18-23 years old and have not completed a previous Level 3 qualification, or through an Adult Learner Loan if you have completed a previous Level 3 or are aged 24+.

Entry requirements

Students will be required to hold:GCSE English at grade 3/D or Level 1 Functional Skills EnglishGCSE Maths at grade 3/D or Level 1 Functional Skills MathsAn interest in the animal management, equine management or environmental conservation industriesApplicants will need to have undertaken a minimum of two weeks' work placement prior to commencing the programme.All applicants will be invited to an interview to discuss the programme.

What you will learn

  • You'll study animal science theory, covering key biological and scientific principles.
  • You'll develop practical animal care skills using the campus animal care centre and rural grounds.
  • You'll complete a work experience placement as part of the programme.
  • You'll build academic study skills needed for higher education.
  • You'll study English and Maths to Functional Skills Level 2 if you don't already hold GCSE grade C/4 in both subjects.

How you will learn

You'll learn through a mix of classroom teaching and hands-on practical sessions at the Broomfield Hall campus. Three days a week are timetabled, with one day dedicated to work experience. Assessment is through coursework and assignments. An interview is required before you start, and you'll need to have completed at least two weeks of work placement prior to beginning the programme.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Derby College Broomfield Hall Campus 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, shelters, or farms
  • Zoo keeper assistant: supporting animal welfare in zoo or wildlife settings
  • Veterinary receptionist: front-of-house role in a veterinary practice
  • Animal technician: working with animals in research or laboratory environments
  • Equine groom: hands-on horse care in stables or equestrian centres
  • Wildlife conservation assistant: supporting habitat and species management projects

What you could study next

This access to HE diploma (animal science) qualification is designed to prepare you for university-level study. You could progress to a Foundation degree in Animal Science (FdSc), a BSc in Animal Biology or Zoology, or a degree in Veterinary Nursing. Some graduates move into apprenticeships in animal management or environmental conservation instead. Check individual university entry requirements, as most will accept this qualification in place of A Levels for relevant courses.

Apply on derby-college.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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